While every inch of sheetmetal on the X5 is new and every key exterior dimension has grown
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00:00 When BMW introduced the X5 seven years ago, it referred to its first sports utility as
00:10 a sports activity vehicle.
00:12 On the road, it performed like a tall 5-series wagon that was still quick, agile, and fun.
00:18 The few shortcomings centered on the X5's lack of utility.
00:21 Now with X5 version 2.0, BMW has addressed the utility shortcomings.
00:26 With an optional third row, interior volume increased by 4.8 cubic feet, and cargo volume
00:32 expanded by 2.8 cubic feet.
00:35 At the same time, there's more standard power, a load of innovative technology, and sharper
00:40 handling thanks to an all-new control arm front suspension.
00:44 While every inch of sheet metal on the X5 is new, and every key exterior dimension has
00:49 grown, the look as a whole is still familiar.
00:53 BMW openly admits that with the second generation, they aimed to keep the basic character of
00:57 the original, adding that the X5 needed an enhancement, not a replacement.
01:02 Behind the wheel, the changes from the previous version are more apparent.
01:06 An iDrive controller, which BMW claims manages a simplified interface, now resides on the
01:11 center console.
01:13 It sits next to a new electronic gear shifter that is similar in function, though not placement,
01:18 to the unit in the 7-series.
01:20 The instrument panel, specifically the gauge cluster, looks especially fresh, resembling
01:25 that of the 5-series.
01:27 In addition to a roomier front row that offers two inches of extra shoulder room, and nearly
01:31 an inch of additional leg room, the driver and front passenger also get treated to more
01:36 comfortable 10-way power seats, and an upgraded CD MP3 12-speaker audio system.
01:43 Second row shoulder room and leg room are up as well, with the latter gaining 1.2 inches.
01:49 As before, the X5 is available with an inline-6 or a V8, each boasting significant power boosts
01:55 to compare with their predecessors.
01:57 The 3.0 liter inline-6 delivers 260 horsepower and 225 pound-feet of torque.
02:05 For more power, the 4.8 liter V8 serves up 350 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque.
02:13 Both engines come mated to a seamless ZF 6-speed automatic that routes power via the xDrive
02:18 all-wheel drive system, featuring a 40/60 front/rear torque split.
02:23 Besides the noticeable gain in power, the new X5 delivers sharper responses and a more
02:28 compliant ride than its predecessor.
02:31 Much of this newfound glory can be attributed to the control arm front suspension, which
02:35 makes the X5 the first BMW since 1961 devoid of front struts.
02:41 By isolating the damper from lateral forces, mounting the anti-roll bars to the knuckles
02:46 rather than the suspension arms, and giving engineers more flexibility in damper tuning
02:50 and suspension geometry, BMW claims the switch to control arms improves ride and handling.
02:57 Without a low range, all-terrain tires, or adequate ground clearance, the new X5 won't
03:02 be tackling boulders anytime soon.
03:05 But for those who love the feel and drive of a BMW but still seek the extra utility
03:09 of an SUV, this 2007 X5 with its renowned luxury and improved performance is surely
03:16 worth the premium.
03:16 [music]