2007-2008 BMW X5: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

BMW redesigned the larger of its two sport-utility vehicles for 2007, making it bigger and adding the possibility of seven-passenger seating. Compared to the 2006 models, the 2007 X5 was 4.5 inches longer in wheelbase, 7.4 inches longer overall, 2.4 inches wider, and 2 inches taller. This premium midsize all-wheel-drive SUV was offered in two models. The 3.0si had a 260-horsepower inline six-cylinder engine, which replaced the 225-hp 3.0i. The 4.8i held a 350-horsepower, 4.8-liter V8, replacing the 315-hp 4.4i. Both came only with a six-speed automatic transmission. Standard seating was for five, but an optional third-row seat expanded capacity to seven. Each X5 had all-wheel drive without low-range gearing, traction/antiskid control with rollover sensors, and hill descent control. Front side airbags were standard, as were curtain side airbags that covered the first two seating rows and included rollover deployment. All X5s had steering-linked xenon headlights and BMW's iDrive that used a single knob to control entertainment, communication, navigation, and climate functions. An available Sport Package included a driver-adjustable suspension and BMW's Active Roll Stabilization, which countered body lean. BMW's Active Steering, designed to quicken low-speed steering response, was optional. Other options included a navigation system, head-up instrument display, DVD entertainment, a rearview camera with front/rear obstacle detection, and BMW Assist concierge service with wireless cell phone linkage. With the X5, BMW competed against such premium SUVs as the Acura MDX, Cadillac SRX, Lexus RX, and Volvo XC90.