The new X5 is an SAV, not an SUV. So says BMW, which insists its off-roader is a Sports Activity rather than Utility Vehicle. This seems like a minor point, but it highlights the fact the German company is targeting a lifestyle audience rather than families alone.
In reality, the firm knows it cant afford to alienate those who will be filling all the chairs on a regular basis. Thats why the new X5 is 187mm longer and features the option of seven seats although its much shorter than the Q7, and the extra pair of chairs costs 1,320.
That looks poor value when you find out how small, hard and cramped they are. With only 510mm of legroom, adults shouldnt even try to negotiate their way into the rearmost seats. At least all the handles that tilt and slide the middle row are chunky and easy to use, and the bench provides ample space for three.
The X5 is not only BMWs first-ever seven-seater, but also boasts the firms largest luggage capacity 1,750 litres with all the chairs folded flat. That sounds good until you learn the Discos load bay totals 2,558 litres. In fact, the BMWs boot is smaller all-round than either rivals 3 although people coming from the existing X5
will be impressed that the capacity in five-seat mode has grown from 465 litres to 620 litres.
It doesnt offer quite the space and flexibility of its opponents, but BMW has done enough to improve matters without making the X5 too big and bulky. In fact, it appears smaller and more athletic than its predecessor, with sharp creases and a more aggressive nose. Externally, it undoubtedly looks more similar to the X3, but theres no evidence of corner-cutting inside.
The design is a fusion of old X5 and current 5-Series, with an extra splash of user-friendliness. There are plentiful cubbies, a space-saving joystick-style gearlever and electric parking brake, and apart from the confusing iDrive cabin control dial, the switchgear is both legible and logical.
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