Acceleration

4.8i	Class Average
7	6.1

Only 4.8i models have been made available for test so far. Testers complained about non-linear throttle response but not the V8's smooth, strong power, particularly in high-speed passing. BMW says the 4.8i does 6.4 seconds 0-60 mph. The transmission shifts smoothly, with alert downshifts.

Fuel Economy

4.8i	Class Average
2	3.3

Extended-use 4.8i is averaging 15.2 mpg over its first 3072 miles. Other 4.8i models averaged 13.9-14.8 mpg in a mix of city/highway driving. All X5 models require premium-grade gas.

Ride Quality

4.8i	Class Average
5	5.9

The 4.8i exhibits a surprisingly firm ride with the base suspension; some testers complained of harshness and bounding over sharp bumps and jiggling over rough pavement. A brief test showed little comfort difference with sport suspension and 19-inch tires vs. the base suspension and standard 18s. We've had no opportunity to test an X5 with the available 20-inch tires.

Steering/Handling/Braking

4.8i	Class Average
6	5.5

Outstanding balance and grip make the X5 feel more like a sport sedan than an SUV. There's minimal body lean in turns, especially with the Sport Package. Models without Active Steering required surprising effort to turn at low speeds. Test vehicles exhibited strong braking with excellent pedal feel.

Quietness

4.8i	Class Average
6	6.7

There's some engine noise and coarse-surface tire thrum, but otherwise, the X5 is pleasantly quiet. The Sport Package's 19-inch tires were not noticeably louder than the standard 18s.

Controls

4.8i	Class Average
6	6.2

Frequently used audio and climate controls are thankfully separate from the iDrive system, but those adjustments governed by iDrive require a long look from the road. The optional navigation system demands frustrating interaction with complex controls and cryptic markings.

Details

4.8i	Class Average
7	7

Interior materials exhibit a nice blend of durability and luxury and are assembled with care. One test vehicle suffered from several squeaks and rattles in the dashboard and rear-seat area.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

4.8i	Class Average
7	7.5

There's ample legroom, though taller drivers may find headroom tight beneath the housing of the standard sunroof. Standard seats are comfortable, aided by an adjustable thigh support, but some of the optional seats proved too firm, so try before you buy. Some testers complained that entry and exit was hindered by protruding lower door sills and small door openings. Rear headrests partially block the view astern, but visibility is good otherwise, aided by available front and rear obstacle detection. Note that when in use, the screen of the available DVD entertainment system rests atop the center console armrest rather than dropping from the ceiling; some testers found their elbows frequently bumped against the raised screen.

Room/Comfort (rear)

4.8i	Class Average
6	6.5

Second-row occupants have decent headroom, but legroom is unexceptional in five-passenger versions. The 2nd-row seat reclines on all X5s but slides fore and aft only in seven-seat models, which can increase 2nd-row legroom. The cramped 3rd row suits kids only, and even they won't have much knee space unless the 2nd-row seat is fully forward. Entry and exit to the 3rd-row seat requires contortions.

Cargo Room

4.8i	Class Average
8	8.6

With the 3rd-row seat up, there's enough room behind for a row of grocery bags; with it folded, there's good space behind the 2nd row. All seatbacks fold flat to further increase capacity. X5's liftgate has a clamshell design that creates a drop-down tailgate section. High liftover means the tailgate must be dropped to load even moderately sized items. Interior storage is nothing special, and with the optional DVD system, a lowered screen prevents the "bomb bay" console lid--which some testers found inconvenient--from being opened.

Value within Class

4.8i	Class Average
5	6.1

X5 excels for its sporty handling and doesn't suffer as much as some BMWs from its iDrive control system. However, the navigation system is confounding, the available 3rd-row seat is a token gesture, and X5 is pricey, particularly in V8 form. The price premium, though, is partially offset by strong resale values.

Total Score

4.8i	Class Average
65	69.4

Scores for all Premium Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles

Low Score		60
Average Score		69
High Score		80