New BMW X5: The car that sold a million

The X5 is the original Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) and its first generation created a whole new segment in the market.
Now in its third generation the X5 goes from strength to strength and boosts a rare achievement — selling a million vehicles since it came to the market in 1999.
The X5 is big on presence, comfort and luxury and in its latest generation packs some practical technology too.
The car weighs around 2.2 tons but moves with agility envied by smaller vehicles.
There are several modes of suspension to choose from and the best one is Comfort, although the Eco choice saves fuel without compromising performance. In all modes, the X5 is a true road going car at all speeds and is a pleasure to drive.
An X5 40d M was tested in the UK recently for an extended period.
Although the superb 3-liter double turbo charged diesel engine would not go to the regional markets, a bigger 5.0 liter petrol engine in the xDrive 50i is available and pumps in excess of 440 BHP and 650 Nm of torque.
Exterior design has not changed dramatically in the latest X5, keeping a much loved shape that proved very popular in previous generations. Inside, the car can take five adults in total comfort.
There is plenty of head, leg and elbow room in all seats — and all passengers enjoy the elevated position on the road which enhances safety.
There is also a large boot space with under-floor storage area in place of a spare tire. Run-flat tires are fitted as standard in the X5.
The cabin layout is excellent. All the controls and displays are clearly labelled and sensibly laid out, with large numbers of minor functions taken care of by the I-Drive controller. Now using the latest generation software, it is much easier to navigate.
It takes a while for older drivers to get used to I-Drive functions.

Supreme comfort
What all drivers would appreciate in the X5 is comfort which is impressive, especially in front seats. Second row is good with head and leg room but a third row, where fitted, is suitable for children.
The cabin is also quiet and outside noise is well isolated.
The X5 has full complement of safety equipment including airbags, ABS, lane-keeping system and four-wheel drive assurance. LED lighting is standard front and back.
Driving the X5 is easy and the size issue soon ceases to matter.
More impressive is the X5’s ability to cope with enthusiastic driving.
The steering is sharp and well-weighted and the suspension control is very precise, making the X5 a fun car to drive when the roads are clear.
Few cars in this class can match the X5 breadth of ability.
An eight-speed automatic gearbox is standard and noticeably smoother.
It operates faster and more decisive than the older six-speed unit, particularly on downshifts.
The driver can use paddles behind the steering wheel or change manually from the great stick.
Leaving the gearbox to manage itself in auto is the best option.
In the Middle East, the X5 is popular among families as it is ideally suited to perform family duties, given its all-road ability, comfort levels and the amount of space on offer.
In seven-seat format, it has the capability to cope with almost any size of family.
Families in the region also appreciate the luxurious interior with high-grade fit and finish and high quality materials throughout.
Access to the car is easy in all seats and so too is loading cargo into the low-lip boot.
The cabin is attractive especially in cream color trim.
A line of blue lighting throughout the cabin is a classy touch.
It is one of the most desirable cars in the region.
On the entertainment side, the X5 has digital radio, a single CD slot and connection to external devices.
There is also a hard disk for digital storage.
The navigation system is clear and display is accessible to the driver on higher than usual position for ease of use.
However, in cars fitted with Head-Up Display, the driver can see navigation instructions and speed on the front window without having to take his eyes off the road.
While park distance control is useful and fitted as standard, the optional Reversing Assist produces an overhead view of the car through a clever camera system, giving a near-panoramic view of the car and leaving no excuses for poor parking.
This camera system is worth it as an extra option for added safety.
Other luxury touches include power operation of the rear boot lid and electric folding mirrors.
Yet, mirrors do not fold automatically on locking the car and the driver has to press a button to do the job.
The X5 is a car made for the region and is one of BMW best sellers there. If you want to know why, test-drive one.