As the Spies get ready for the 2008 Detroit Auto Show, we thought we'd start the new year driving season off right with our latest addition...The 2008 BMW X5 4.8i.
BMW was kind enough to provide us with this long term review vehicle, so we could let the AutoSpies.com faithful know, if it is all that is cracked up to be.
001 has been driving it since just before the holiday and so far our initial impressions are extremely positive.
The suspension is by far the best in the business and is actually more sophisticated than even the current BMW 7-Series.
No matter what the obstacle, there is NEVER any drama in this new X5.
I absolutely love the way it tracks down the road and it could be the ultimate road trip vehicle.
Handling capabilities are nothing less than amazing for an SUV and better than a lot of cars out there!
You've also gotta love that HUGE panoramic glass roof (makes you feel like you have a convertible the opening is so big) and all of the goodies like traffic based nav system, iPod integration, backup camera and satellite radio.
Any downsides so far?
Gas mileage is not very good (I'm averaging 15.1 MPG) although competitive SUV's like the Range Rover are lucky to cross the 12 MPG mark.
And the rear backup camera resolution is one of the worst out there, plus it is very slow to engage and close.
Stay tuned over the next few months as we delve into more detail of our impressions of the 08 X5.
Finally, check out owners opinions of the new X5 or post your own review in our new user car review area
AutoSpies.com user car reviews
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