The X5 SAV, or Sport ACTIVITY Vehicle, as BMW calls its SUVs, comes in two trim levels, the 3.0 Si and the 4.8i that we tested.
While both feature BMW's xDrive All-Wheel-Drive technology, the 5,335 pound, seven- passenger X5 benefits greatly from the larger engine.
The front end is graced by the traditional BMW grille, with the angular body lines punctuated by boldly trimmed wheel arches and pronounced rocker panels. A split opening rear tailgate with high spoiler and optional 20-inch alloy wheels round out the X5's performance persona.
The X5 is powered by a 4.8 Liter 350 horsepower V-8 that produces 350 pound feet of torque and is mated to a 6-speed, electronically controlled sequential automatic transmission. As is the norm in this genre of motor vehicle, the list of adaptive driving technology is long, including: Dynamic Stability and Traction Control and Hill Decent Control.
Ventilated 4-wheel ABS Disc brakes are augmented by Dynamic Brake Control and Brake Fade Resistance.
Fuel mileage has been estimated by the EPA at 15 MPG City and 21 on the highway.
The interior is done in leather with wood trim and features multiple power accessories from 20-way multi-function, ventilated front seats, to the tilt/telescoping steering wheel and panoramic 2-panel, tilt/sliding moon roof. Second row passengers are provided with a fold down center arm rest and a two fold down third row seats make room for up to seven passengers or five with ample storage.
Information and entertainment systems include premium, multi-speaker audio, rear seat DVD player and a DVD-based, voice activated Navigation system with real-time traffic information and rear-view camera.
Dual stage airbags are provided as are front and rear compartment head protection technology with front side-impact airbags.
Base MSRP for a 2008 BMW X5 4.8i is $54,400 including a 4 year/50,000 mile warranty.
If you're in the market for a luxury, all-wheel-drive Mid-size SUV, you could not go wrong with the 2008 X5 Sport Activity Vehicle from BMW.