You don't really notice how big a X5 is until you see one up close. Seeing one on the road doesn't do it justice. It wasn't until we sized it up against its smaller brother, the X3, did we realize how large its presence actually is. The one we purchased, particularly the 4.8i trim just looks mean (in a good way). It stands out with the larger exhausts in the back (compared to the 3.0si), and the metallic brushed kidney grilles on the front. Because it was modified for 2007, the back taillights are more refined and not as bulky as they looked for the first generation vehicle. The exterior is fresh, the lines are good and it immediately comes off as a solid SUV, or as BMW calls it, SAV. Inside, the materials are everything you'd expect from BMW with the wood grain trim, leather seating, steering wheel, etc. The buttons are arranged simplistically and are not overwhelming as you sometimes find in other vehicles. If you've driven any other one of BMW's lineup before, you know where to find buttons - particularly the lock/unlock button, which is found underneath the main air vents in front (there is no lock/unlock button on the driver's or passenger doors). The seats are very comfortable and ours had multi-way adjustable seats. You sit up high and have a great view of the road which makes you forget you're driving a big SUV on the road. Of course when it comes to turning and parking in tight spaces (when you've previously owned a sedan or hatchback), there is a little bit more attention required. The side mirrors are huge to eliminate any blind spots and we always like to add the blind spot mirrors you can get to help increase visibility. It is very roomy in the back and tall adults would have no problem stretching out. We have a convertible car seat installed forward facing and you didn't need to move up the passenger's seat at all. Our version does not have third-row seating so we do have quite a bit of cargo space and the rear seats can fold down flat for extra room. The trunk is unique in that it splits into two parts. The gate will lift up but then you still have the bottom third you need to pull down by grasping a lever and pulling it towards you. I think it helps if you needed to slide a big item off or need extra leverage. It isn't that big of a negative though. It drives well. The 4.8i has around 350hp so there is plenty of get-up-and-go. Braking is sturdy and responsive. You do develop that sense of being able to tackle anything and you definitely notice how much higher you are off the road than most vehicles. Going back to the engine size and power, it does compromise on fuel efficiency. I believe it is only rated at 15/22 compared to 17/23 for the 3.0si version. It's a monster at the pump with a 22.5 gallon tank (around 2.6 for reserves according to the manual). It of course recommends premium fuel but will accept as low as unleaded. As someone who has owned 2 other BMWs, the X5 is no different. It feels smooth, accelerates nicely, and the fact that AWD comes standard is a big plus so you can be prepared for any climate. Relating to repairs, obviously BMW repairs aren't cheap. If you can't do it yourself or your car is not under a warranty, just take it to an independent dealer for repair. We did have to replace all the spark plugs and some other items as it didn't appear the previous owner did it at 100,000 miles, and because the X5 requires iridium spark plugs ($28 a piece), it was about $750. Thankfully these are supposed to last 100,000 miles so it should not have to be done again. Great vehicle, just be aware that you are getting what you pay for and be mindful of keeping it well maintained!

Great gas mileage and road handling. Steering feel is a little bit vague compared to the older BMW's. But steering feel is still better than most other SUVs... other than the Cayenne. Tech package is great. Screen can't be stowed, but can be turned off. Lots of storage and the noise level is very quiet on the highway. Not a cheap car but you get what you pay for and it's definitely more reliable than the Porsche.

I have used the X5 owned by my uncle extensively. Its been a great to take it for long drives and the state highways are a great place to use the car. I realized what a BMW could accomplish with all the money it costs. Everything is automatic. All that is needed is to save the money and get the car. Locking doors to massages, what doesn't this beauty have?