2007 BMW X5

The original BMW X5 was clearly different. This so called “Sports-Activity Vehicle” was not just a pioneer car SUV crossover, but rather a blend of the world’s best sport sedan with prestigious family functions. Indeed that X5 was as much at home on dry switchbacks as snow-covered galleria parking lots. Now, for 2007, there is a new X5. And this one has to one-up itself.

Easier said than done - not only was the first BMW X5 a self-proclaimed Sports-Activity Vehicle, but its brand also demanded that it be an Ultimate Driving Machine. So, to reset its own benchmark for high performance premium utilities, the all-new second generation 2007 X5 must elevate its balancing act to a much higher level.

Models are reduced from three to two, the 3.0si and 4.8i. Otherwise the X5 has expanded in every direction, plus added seven-passenger third-row seating. Almost 7.5 inches longer than before, wheelbase has been stretched 4.5-inches to 115.5 inches.

A 15% stiffer unibody chassis provides the foundation for a new double wishbone multi-link suspension up front. It allows for greater tire patch contact during hard cornering as well as a better ride.  Additionally, the 4-link rear suspension is revised for higher performance both on and off pavement.

Further maximizing control is the Sport Package’s AdaptiveDrive system.  Unique to its segment, it coordinates Active Roll Stabilization with Electronic Damping Control, instantly adjusting the anti-roll bars and shock absorbers to grant an impressively flat ride and yes, sport sedan-level handling.

The X5 now also offers Active Steering. The motorized system provides wide variable ratio steering, making parking easier and emergency maneuvers safer. But the price you pay is less feel than the standard, excellent steering gear.

Besides our normal venue, we carved up the test track at the X5’s Greenville, South Carolina assembly plant. With little body roll, the X5 was flat and nimble.  Rock-like stability is clearly its strong suit, allowing for ever more assertive driving styles.

These dynamics find power from two potent new engines. The X5 3.0si is equipped with the 3-Series’ new 3-liter twin-cam inline-6. Output is 260 horsepower, a jump of 35, with 225 pound-feet of torque.

The X5 4.8i is fitted with a carry-over 4.8-liter twin-cam V8 also used in the 5, 6, and 7-Series, while ratings are slightly detuned to 350 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque. Both models have a hefty tow rating of 6,000 pounds.

Engines are mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission with sport and manual modes, and to BMW’s evolved xDrive all-wheel drive system with Hill Descent Control.

On the track our X5 sprinted from 0 to 60 in 6.6 seconds while finishing off the quarter-mile in 15.1 seconds at 92 miles-per-hour.
The X5’s 18-inch, and available 19- and 20-inch alloy wheels, with low-profile run-flats are brought to a halt by oversized 4-wheel vented discs with ABS and Brake Assist. Despite 5,300 pounds of mass, stops from 60 to 0 averaged a very short 120 feet with excellent stability.

On the street Government Fuel Economy ratings are 15 city/21 highway for our 4.8i tester. We managed a real-world loop of 18 on premium gas. The 4.8i has a fairly thirsty Energy Impact Score of 20.1 barrels of oil per year.

From the outside, the X5’s styling follows a logical evolution that’s now more muscular and elegant. Careful aerodynamic honing is obvious at the rear, at the top of the hatch, and above the taillights.

Inside, the luxurious cabin has not just grown, but makes a far better use of space. And the available panoramic sunroof showers that space with light.

The 10-way front power seats include driver’s side memory. Leather comes on the 4.8i but heat is extra. The hooded gauges are tightly grouped and serious, while the steering wheel has controls for the standard radar-based Dynamic Cruise Control.

The 4.8i’s wood-trimmed instrument panel is straightforward, and includes for the first time in an X5 the iDrive multi-control interface.

It handles most functions including the standard dual-zone and optional 4-zone automatic climate controls. Navigation, rearview camera, head-up display, and a 16-speaker sound system are also available.   

The split second-row bench has a flush-fold function. Window shades and a rear DVD seat entertainment system are options, as is the new third-row split bench. Best for two kids, it too folds flush for cargo.

Speaking of which, along with the maximum 61.8 cubic feet of cargo space, you also get this handy, lockable under floor storage bin.

Pricing for the X5 starts steep at $46,595 for the 3.0si and $55,195 for the 4.8i. Options are plentiful and pricey.

It’s pretty remarkable that with its added capacity and weight, the new 2007 BMW X5 is an even more stellar total performer than the original. BMW’s relentless advancement of smart vehicle technologies clearly pays off here. The X5 is part sport sedan, part utility, and above all, a most modern BMW.