BMW X5 (07 on) - Review

Review by Simon Harris on
Last Updated: 28 July 2008
BMW's X5 can claim to have begun the trend towards large 4x4s that were meant for road use rather than frequent forays into the wilderness. And the new model launched in 2007 improves that formula further - it's more spacious, economical and quicker than before, plus it's better to drive too. But the big news is that it's BMW's first ever seven-seater (although the extra chairs are a £1,320 optional extra) making it a more practical family car. Diesel versions will be the most popular but the petrol engines have been upgraded and are now greener while all cars get a new six-speed automatic gearbox as standard. It's not cheap and has limited off road ability, but if you can afford one you'll be rewarded with one of the best on-road 4x4s on the market.
4.5 out of 5

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4.5 out of 5

Safety

The X5 comes with front and side airbags for the driver and passenger, as well as curtain airbags for the first and second rows. There is electronic stability control, to help correct the car's line during a skid, hi-tech braking aids, including priming in anticipation of an emergency stop and brake-fade compensation. Hill descent control and hill-start assistant help when driving off road while parking sensors, plus Isofix child seat mounting points and run-flat tyres are also standard.

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4 out of 5

Reliability

The previous BMW X5 had good reliability, with only a few niggling problems for some unlucky owners. The second-generation model should be even better.

Car check problem points

Body

No problems reported.

Engine/Gearbox

No problems reported.

Other

No problems reported.