2008 BMW X5: Tester's Comments
2008 BMW X5 ▼
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- MSRP: $45,900 -$54,500
- Invoice: $42,230 -$50,140
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Find out what the Consumer Guide Automotive testers had to say about the 2008 BMW X5. See if the 2008 BMW X5 is right for you.
Vehicle Evaluated
| Make/Model: | 2008 BMW X5 long term |
|---|---|
| Trim Level: | 4.8i |
| Arrival Date: | 03/03/2008 |
| Engine: | dohc V8 |
| Bodystyle | 4-door wagon |
| Transmission: | 6-speed automatic |
| 4WD/AWD: | Yes |
| Base Price: | 54,500 |
| Price as Tested: | 64,070 |
| Mileage at Beginning of Test: | 1444 |
| Mileage at End of Test: | 16531 |
| Total Measured Miles: | 15087 |
| Total Fuel Used: | 944.64 gals. |
| Consumer Guide Fuel Economy: | 15.93 mpg (what's this?) |
| Problems During Test: | None |
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Major Options
Third-row Seat, Cold Weather Package, Premium Package, Technology Package, Comfort Access System, iPod and USB Adapter, HD Radio, Satellite Radio.
From the Back Seat
Damon Bell
Trying to make a lightning-reflexed sports car out of a 5000-lb SUV seems like an exercise in futility to me, and this X5 does little to change my view. If you're into hardcore corner-carving, I'd recommend something lighter, with a lower center of gravity. However if you simply must have a brawny SUV visage and tall seating position with your performance vehicle, be prepared to pay for it in the form of a stiff, nervous ride; overly sensitive steering, brakes, and throttle pedal; and fat tires that like to follow every imperfection in the road.
David Hogan
I'm most enamored with the X-5's drivetrain which, despite its occasional lurchy behavior, is tremendously good. Handling (particularly in cornering) is another plus. But this a narrow, rather short SUV with limited practicality. Other pleasing, considerably more practical SUVs (and not just those with Acura or Lexus nameplates) are available at lower prices.
Don Sikora
The X5 has some sport, but there seems to be too many compromises so it doesn't have all that much utility. The X5 is roughly the same size as a Chevrolet TrailBlazer (and nearly 500 pounds heavier), but the X5's interior is noticeably smaller than that in the body-on-frame-construction Chevy. In particular, the X5 isn't comfortable for more than two adults, which seems incredible in a vehicle this size. Beyond the wonderfully strong but very thisty engine it didn't feel that sporty to me either.
Ed Piotrowski
I've always had a thing for fast SUVs, and the X5 4.8i fits the bill quite nicely. This BMW has the added bonus of having more subtlety than a Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 or Porsche Cayenne. It's not cheap, either in terms of its MSRP or its need for premium gas, but X5 delivers the performance, luxury, and versatility one can expect of a high-end hot-rod wagon.
Jack Stewart
The X5 is big on the outside, but small inside. The X3 would be a much better choice.
Jennifer Geiger
Yes, X5 4.8i is pin-you-in-your-seat fast, but it's also burn-a-hole-in-your-pocket thirsty. I also just can't get past its overall fussiness. iDrive takes some getting used to but is impossible to operate while focusing on the road. The overly annoying and distracting park assist function is easy to shut off, but comes back each time you put X5 in reverse. Stop second-guessing me, BMW! Those issues, coupled with too-touchy brakes and too-stiff steering make me want to take my $64,070 and shop elsewhere for a premium midsize SUV--or save $20,000 and get a loaded Hyundai Veracruz instead.
John Biel
The X5 can't seem to decide if it wants to be an SUV or a sport wagon. Fully committed to the former, it might have better second- and third-row seating. Fully committed to the latter, it probably wouldn¿t weigh nearly 5000 pounds. Fully committed to either, it could be worth its price.
Lynne Richman
This BMW is going through an identity crisis - it has the acceleration and ride of a small sports car concealed within the body of an unwieldy SUV. I expect a rough ride in a sports car, not in a premium SUV. Poor fuel economy and high-priced premium gasoline also would discourage me from buying it.
Tim Healey
BMW clearly set out to build an SUV that had the same driving characteristics as its cars, and in that regard, the X5 succeeds. Car-like moves and a powerful V8 make X5 a joy to drive. On the other hand, iDrive is frustrating, the interior could be roomier, and the fuel economy is dismal, to say the least. If you want BMW driving dynamics but don't need an SUV, stick with a 5-Series. If you need a premium SUV, and driving dynamics don't matter, there are better choices. However, if you need a premium SUV and absolutely must have the BMW driving experience, X5 hits the mark.
Tom Appel
Sadly, I am the lone CGer who sees this vehicle for what it is: Full-time fun, part-time ute. It's expensive, overly-firm riding, and inexcusably thirsty, and I love it. Shopping for power, freakishly (for a truck) tight handling, traffic-friendly SUV ride height, AWD, and bonus cargo and passenger space when you need it? I got your ride right here.
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