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car review

Tech Specs

Base price: $76,590; as tested: $96,400

Engine: 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged V-8

Transmission/drive: Eight-speed automatic with manual paddles/all-wheel drive

Fuel economy (litres/100 km): 14.6 city/9.2 highway, premium fuel

Alternatives: Cadillac SRX, Audi Q7, Mercedes-Benz M-Class

Ride:

9.0 This is the Barry White of SUVs: big, powerful and velvety smooth. Potholes be damned.

Looks

8.0 It is unmistakably BMW, with its classic grille. The large LED headlights add a touch of elegance.

Interior

8.5 Leather, chrome and oh, so quiet.

Technology

9.0 This is where the X5 shines: it has everything, save for the kitchen sink. It's amazing anyone could crash this vehicle, what with all its safety nannies, from a lane departure warning system to a collision warning with automatic braking to a bird's-eye view backup camera. The overflowing infotainment options – including navigation with real-time traffic updates and internet using BMW's ConnectedDrive system – are focused around a 10-inch display that tops the centre stack.

The Verdict

8.5

The cockpit is cool and comprehensive but you almost need an engineering degree to take advantage of all the high-tech goodies.

*****

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