The BMW X5 was one of the first big 4x4s to priorities on-road performance over off-road abilities, setting a template that’s now become the norm. Every X5 is spacious enough to keep four large adults happy, while a fifth will be reasonably comfortable in its central rear seat. BMW extends its advantage by offering an optional third row of seats that can be folded flat when they’re not in use.
Meanwhile, the boot itself is easily big enough to cope with a family’s holiday luggage. There are lots of storage spaces in the front of the car, too. Looking at the interior of the car, you can operate most functions by scrolling through logical onscreen menus using a rotary dial that’s positioned just behind the gearstick, where it’s easy to reach. And there are shortcut buttons that you can programme to take you straight to the functions you use most often. You sits are high, so get an excellent view of the road ahead.
Steering that’s light at low speed adds to the ease of driving, as does the smooth-shifting automatic gearbox that’s standard on every model. Only the X5’s considerable size makes it a little tricky to manoeuvre and park. The infotainment inside the car is awesome. The best car in the market to have.