BMW X5
No one would call the news that BMW would be offering its first SUV in 2000 a "little thing." The BMW X5, which BMW likes to call "the world's first Sport Activity Vehicle," debuted this year and lived up to not just the hype but the expectations surrounding it.
February 1, 2004
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Max Tow Capacity: 6,000 lbs.
Wheelbase: 111" Standard Brakes: 4-wheel disc w/ABS and Dynamic Brake Control Fuel Economy: 13/17 mpg Max Payload: 1,177 lbs. Final Gear Ratio: 4.10:1 Price Range: $39,970-$52,440 Powertrain Warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles Engine: 3.0L DOHC V6, 4.4L DOHC V8 Special Features: Hill Descent Control, All-Season Traction control system, Dynamic Stability Control, Head Protection System and side-impact airbags for front seats. |
 No one would call the news
that BMW would be offering its first SUV in 2000 a "little thing." The BMW X5, which BMW likes to
call "the world's first Sport Activity Vehicle," debuted this year and lived up to not just the
hype but the expectations surrounding it.
What really sets the X5 apart from other SUVs is the fact that it was designed with high-speed ON-road driving in mind, proving that BMW has faced the reality that today's SUVs spend more time on highways than goat trails. As a result, the X5 is a handling monster, with dramatically less rollover potential than most SUVs (an important point, since most SUV fatalities are the result of rollovers). How well does the X5 handle? It did a lap at Germany's Nurburgring race track in 9 minutes 28 seconds, faster than many luxury sedans. The technical data and effort behind this kind of handling is impressive, with highlights including multi-link rear suspension with self-leveling air springs; All Season Traction (AST) to limit wheelspin; and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC-X) that enhances the performance of the AST and the anti-lock brake system. The X5's technological marvels don't just affect the handling. The automatic air recirculation control kicks in when a sensor detects high levels of air pollution, and if they put that much thought into the air conditioner, you can imagine how nice the rest of the interior is. The X5 is worth the wait. |
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