Model tested: BMW X5 3.0d SE auto
Price: £45,630
Date tested: February 2008
Road tester: Stuart Milne

Overall rating: 82%
BMW created the Sports Activity Vehicle to combine the presence of an SUV with the handling of a saloon car. We took to the road to find out if it can still compete with increasingly competent rivals.

1. Looks
The second-generation X5 is among the most handsome cars in its class. It has massive presence, but unlike some, the X5 still has the blend of curves and angles which are now a BMW trademark.
8/10

2. Looks inside
There's a familiarity with the X5's cabin – the convex dash swoops away from the driver and passenger and there are clear, well laid-out controls. The iDrive system is intuitive while the seating position is excellent.
8/10

3. Practicality
The second-generation X5 sprouted a third row of seats to give space for seven – but it's cramped for adults. The seats are simple to operate and the boot can hold a cavernous 1,750 litres.
8/10

4. Ride and Handling
The X5 corners almost as well as the 5-Series saloon, and although the steering is slightly vague, it can be hustled along winding roads at an impressive rate. The downside is a remarkably hard ride, partly because of the standard run-flat tyres.
8/10

5. Performance
The 3-litre diesel will reach 62mph from rest in 9.3 seconds, while the top speed is 134mph respectively. There's plenty of low-down grunt and a very smooth power delivery, ensuring the speed is deceptive.
9/10

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6. Running Costs
No 2.7-tonne SUV is cheap to run, but the 3-litre diesel engine averages 32.5mpg and produces CO2 emissions of 231g/km. Insurance is group 17 but continued demand means the X5 will retain 59 per cent of its value after three years/36,000 miles.
7/10

7. Reliability
The BMW X5 feels like a solid machine, and the quality and fit and finish is commensurate with a premium-badged SUV costing upwards of £40,000.
9/10

8. Safety
Although the second-generation X5 hasn't been crash tested, the previous model five stars. All models feature driver, passenger, front side and first and second row airbags plus ESP and run-flat tyres.
9/10

9. Equipment
All X5s have cruise control with brake function, fog lamps, front and rear park sensors, rain sensing wipers, automatic headlamps, air-con, all-round electric windows, CD player with colour screen and an on-board computer.
8/10

10. X-Factor
It's the SUV that thinks it's a sports saloon, and as a result offers superb handling and a range of potent engines.
8/10