2007 BMW X5 4.8I

Today I saw a 2007 BMW X5 4.8i.  This SUV was fully loaded with almost all available options.  When this was new it had a base price of $54,500 and with all the added options the sticker price was $69,700. The options were many and included the following; Cold Weather Package, Technology Package, Premium Package, Premium Sound Package, Rear Climate Package, 3rd Row Seat, Multi-contour Seats, Heated Second Row Seats, Panorama Sunroof, Navigation, Rear View Camera, Heads Up Display and Satellite Radio.  The exterior color is Black Sapphire Metallic with a Sand Beige Interior.

The X5 is a very popular luxury SUV and there is a lot to like about it.  The styling inside and outside is attractive with quality materials.  I have some real problems with some of the features of this X5.  The iDrive control system is very difficult to use and would be a real distraction if you were trying to use it while moving.  The knob that controls this is on the center console and controls the radio, climate control and navigation system.  I consider myself advanced when it comes to using technology but the iDrive system has been driving me crazy since it was introduced on the 7-series in 2001.  BMW claims it gets easier with every new generation but it does not.  It is so cumbersome to use that they now have duplicate controls using standard knobs and buttons for most systems.  Based on the number of 7-Series trade-ins, with very low miles, that I have seen at other luxury makes the buyers of these vehicles found them too difficult to use.  I could go on and on about my dislike of the i-drive system but I think you get the point.

The X5 is a very nice SUV and if you can get past the complexities of the iDrive system you will enjoy this vehicle.