With its strong, sophisticated lines, the X5 projected star quality from the moment it bowed in Canada in 2000 as BMW's first SUV.
Built only in Spartanburg, S.C., the big "Sports Activity Vehicle" — as its maker calls it — is sold worldwide.
The AWD X5 comes in three flavours:
The 3.0i (225 hp, 3.0-litre inline-six and a five-speed automatic), 4.4i (315 hp, 4.4-litre V8 and a six-speed automatic) and 4.8is (355 hp, 4.8-litre V8 and six-speed automatic).
For 2006, BMW has rolled out an Executive Edition version of the 3.0i and 4.4i. The package includes leather seats; two-piece "panorama" sunroof; 18-inch alloy wheels and other goodies.
Full review here