Performance BMW Model Reviews - Reviews on BMW Vehicles, Raleigh, NC

2008 BMW x5 Series

Overview

his ultra-elegant crossover SUV from BMW has everything �power, style, class and much more, except that this is not fully true. Everything is right, except that BMW likes to call this vehicle not an SUV, but an SAV �Sports Activity Vehicles. Moreover, there is another important characteristic that has not been mentioned �it has the BMW stamp.
This year�s model has a new technology, BMW EfficientDynamics, which cuts fuel consumption and emissions by between four and seven percent. We know this is not going to stretch the lifespan of the availability of petrol by a couple of decades, or postpone damage

Engine and performance

The 2008 BMW X5 (officially called the X5 3.0 sd) derives it driving force from its extremely powerful 286 hp engine. The 3.0 L twin-turbocharged straight-six delivers this awesome power at 4400 rpm at a maximum torque of 427 lb ft at 1750 rpm. The innovation that EfficientDynamics offers is that this kind of kingly power propels the vehicle from start to 60 mph in under seven seconds; yet, it consumes only 8.2 liters/100 km. This works out to a decent mileage of 28.6 mpg in city driving conditions. This is a relatively small price to pay for the kind of oomph this vehicle has.

Deadly exteriors, spruced up interiors

The ambience is terrific, and would remind you of some theater. The optional third row of seats is a definite plus, making it BMW�s first ever SAV meant for seven. There is also a TV for rear passengers. The controls are very utilitarian and easy to access. The list of standard interiors is really long.
Another feature that makes the vehicle stand out is the extended wheelbase, at an ideal 19�. The huge gas tank makes this a vehicle that can travel real distances without needing a refill.

Driving impressions

What is left to be said about this vehicle that has set the imagination and the pulse of all car aficionados racing the world over? This year, apart from the standard eulogies that this vehicle rightly deserves, the added feature gives yet another reason to scurry for adjectives �the xDrive, which has hugely enhanced the vehicle�s driving, traction and handling. This is just another feather in the cap of this carmaker that never ceases to amaze.

Safety

If the electronics are all meant to give the vehicle safety, adding to this is the set of crash-activated headrests, which reduce the impact of neck injuries during accidents.