2007 BMW X5 Review

The X5 is a mid-size luxury SUV that first appeared in 2000. A product of BMW's buyout of Rover, the X5 incorporates Range Rover technology into a distinctive BMW design. It was refreshed in 2004 with improved engines, taillights, and four-wheel drive. In 2005, the X5 received standard Bluetooth connectivity. It was voted Australia's "Best Luxury Four Wheel Drive" in 2001 and 2002.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

If you need a large SUV and want a BMW, then the BMW X5 is made just for you. But, you could do a lot better. The X5 is a terrible value in its class, and the first generation's plethora of problems leaves us with some serious anxiety. It's a shame too, since BMW proved it could make a fine SUV with the BMW X3.

What's New For 2007:

The 2007 X5 is all-new. It is larger overall, and now able to seat up to seven. Two new engines, a 225-hp V6 and a 350-hp V8 each ride on top of a new multi-link suspension. Other new features include a six-speed transmission, active steering, and an automatic tailgate.

Request a free, no-obligation, new 2007 BMW X5 price quote or choose any other model you're interested in and receive the Buying Advice Team's Insider Report for New Car Buyers.

Vital Stats

Starting MSRP:
$47,500

Rebates & Incentives:
no

Seats:
5

Gas Mileage:
15/21

Engine:
3.0L I6

Horsepower:
260@6600RPM

Torque:
225@2750RPM

Transmission:
6 Speed Automatic

Drive:
FR/AWD

Fuel Capacity:
23

Fuel Type:
gasoline

Basic Warranty:
48/50000

Powertrain Warranty:
48/50000

Rust Warranty:
144/Unlimi

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power gives the X5 2 stars for overall mechanical and design quality. Problems that affected the first generation include steering problems, inaccurate fuel gauges, transmission leaks, water leaks, and vehicle noise. It was recalled a staggering 18 times. Expect below average reliability. The basic warranty lasts four years or 50,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

Government crash test ratings are unavailable. The IIHS gives the X5 a "Good" rating for frontal tests. Anti-lock brakes, full side head airbags, a rollover sensor, and stability control come standard. Parking sensors are optional.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Drives like a BMW
+ Sleek exterior
+ It's a BMW

Cons
- Tiny third row
- Absurd number of recalls
- Terrible value

Head-To-Head Competition:

You can buy an Acura MDX for the same price with a larger engine, navigation, DVD player, CD changer, leather seats, a third row, and 40 more hp. Or an Audi Q7 with a larger engine, DVD player, CD changer, and leather seats. Or for $500 more, a Volvo XC90 with a larger V8, CD changer, leather seats, a third row, more payload capacity, a moonroof, and 50 more hp.

What Others Are Saying:

"BMW revamps its trendsetting midsize SUV and leaves the styling virtually the same as before." - Forbes

"The 2007 BMW X5 isn't a radical departure from the outgoing model; it promises to keep the best of the 2006 model while bringing the mechanical bits, comfort features and, yes, the styling, into accordance with the rest of the BMW lineup." - Car and Driver

"For those who love the feel and drive of a BMW, not to mention those who don't need a third row or a sport/ute capable of crawling over rocks, the new X5 is surely worth the premium." - Motor Trend

Read more about the 2007 BMW X5 at the BMW manufacturer web site.

Published on Saturday, June 23, 2007 - Email to a friend

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