2009 X5, what more BMW can offer?
BMW has long been one of the dominant luxury brands in the US and around the world. Their venture into the world of the SUV may not have been terribly auspicious, coming as it did when gas prices began to rise steadily, but they still make some of the best looking, best performing SUVs on the market. The BMW X5 garnered headlines when it first appeared, and the new 2009 iteration holds true to the legend of its predecessors.
What will consumers find with the 2009 BMW X5? Are there any significant changes to the platform? Here, we’ll take a look at the SUV.
While the gas-powered version will see no changes of note, the diesel version is a different story. It will be the first in BMW’s line of “clean diesels,” aimed at providing power and refined luxury in an economically friendly package. The diesel version offers an inline 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine capable of putting out 265 horsepower. The twin turbo chargers and direct fuel injection help ramp up the performance of this diesel, helping it to shed the image of slow, clunky diesels of years past. In addition, the diesel version is rated for 25 mpg on the highway, but only 19 in the city.
The BMW X5 offers a number of standard options for consumer looking for a luxury, mid-sized SUV. While it is smaller than many American SUVs, it can still seat 7 people with comfort with the addition of the optional third row seats. In addition, the gas-powered version boasts two engine options. The lower priced model (the 3.0si) offers a 3.0-liter V6 with 260 horses. However, the upgraded engine (in the 4.8i) offers 4.8-liter V8 power and is capable of producing 350 horsepower.
Those who love the feel of shifting a manual will be disappointed, as the X5 only comes with an automatic transmission. In addition, the X5 boasts all-time all-wheel drive. This is a popular enhancement, giving greater grip and power over the broadest range of driving situations. ABS, iDrive, Active Roll Stabilization, front side airbags, side curtain airbags and ABS are all standard on the 2009 BMW X5.
The SUV also has a number of upgraded options available, such as their concierge system, rear-view cameras and options DVD entertainment system. All in all, the 2009 BMW X5 is a worthy (if extremely similar) successor for the automaker’s line of SUVs.
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