BMW X5 2008

By Benjamin Cyr

Let’s not forget that « SUV » starts with Sport…

With so many SUV on the roads these days, it’s easy to forget that sport is part of the title of many SUV. When you pause to think about this, you realize that most do offer the utility aspect but not many can actually claim they are sporty. Unfortunately, it lead to lower consumer’s expectations on the claims of sportiness for this type of vehicles. Rare are the SUV who can offer their drivers a driving experience focused on the driver. The new generation X5 was launched last year. The BMW X5 is now more attractive, bigger and more comfortable. Did I forget to mention that it handles like it’s in a class of its own?
 
 Second generation

The first generation X5 was a success for BMW , this second generation had to hold uphold the flame In my opinion, Bimmers’ engineers and designers did a wonderful job. The new X5 is much more aggressive; its modern lines are pleasing and offer better aerodynamics.
The added length of 15 cm and the wider wheel base of 10 cm make the X5 roomier. But the overall weight went up by as much as 180 kg. One thing is for sure, you can’t fell the added weight when driving the X5. I am still pleasantly surprised by how the X5 handles. By no means do you have the impression of driving a truck weighing at almost 2.5 tons.

BMW  has always been conservative with their interior designs, most particularly with the dashboard design. Again, they are true to their mark and show a very conservative design that is almost the same as in the previous generation. There are subtle changes but this feels like a small evolution of the original concept. This is just too plain to my taste. 

4.8i model

The base model is the 3.0i. Its name reflects its engine displacement. The 3.0i thus has an inline 6 cylinders that pump out 206 hp. The base price of this model is 61 900$. But our test car was the 4.8i model. This replaces the old 4.4i. Can you guess the displacement of this new engine? You will be surprise it is 4.8 liters. Laugh if you will but now that I mention it produces 350 hp and 350 of torque, your smile might turn into one of content. Both engines are matched to an automatic six speed transmission. The trial model was fully loaded: this meant the technology group (navigation, rear camera, etc), sport group with the 21 inch wheels. This model was also equipped with three other optional groups. This was nice but it boosted the total price of the SUV to 93 000$!