However, connected features really take the X5 into the new millennium. The touch interface combines with a very good voice command system to make control of the cabin tech easier.īMW's ConnectedDrive runs a variety of Internet-based services and apps over a connected phone's data connection. Now, the dial includes a touch surface on top, useful for gesture control and alpha-numeric input. Yes, the X5 still has the familiar iDrive jog-dial on the console with buttons labeled Menu, Media, Radio, Tel, and Nav. Online, and onlineĬontrolling onscreen content comes through BMW's latest iDrive controller. That said, BMW included an xDrive status screen on the LCD which showed the X5's roll and pitch angles, and a descent control program.

The all-wheel-drive system is primarily oriented towards on-road driving in slippery conditions. I couldn't adjust the suspension height, lock the center differential, or choose any sort of terrain setting. Not included on this X5 was BMW's Active Steering option, which would have tightened up the turning ratio for twisty road driving.īMW doesn't position the X5 as an off-roader. The X5 uses an electric power-steering system to help save fuel, and the programming gives it point-and-shoot response with generally numb feeling. The steering program adjusted slightly when I switched to Sport mode, but the wheel heft remained too light for my tastes. However, when I tapped the paddles on the steering wheel, the transmission responded with quick gear changes, about as fast as most people could shift a manual transmission, but not as fast as BMW's Dual Clutch Transmission. I was so satisfied with its automatic shifting, that I almost forgot to test the manual mode. When I threw it into Sport mode it aggressively downshifted, sensing when I needed power, maintain engine speeds around 5,000 rpm. The Sport transmission impressed me the most.

The tires weren't even noticeably squealing until it was on the ragged edge. The adaptive suspension made cornering smooth and nearly effortless. With its near 50/50 weight split front to back I only felt understeer when misjudged a turn.

I blasted up a winding road and the wide, Continental SSR run-flat tires, wrapped around 20-inch rims, dug in through the turns. With these settings, the X5 felt more nimble, although could not entirely shed its feeling of size. 255mm tires go a long way toward holding grip, while the rear axles combine air suspension with adaptive dampers.

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