From a plan view of the 2008 BMW X5, the luxury SUV measures 6.4 inches longer and 2.4 inches wider, compared to last year's model. The 3.0si and the 4.8i trims maintain the same road manners and luxury while offering the convenience of available 3rd row seating, not available in the BMW X3, its often-compared sibling. With an M.S.R.P. of $45,900 to $54,500, the new X5 offers a healthy array of standard features.

The X5 is powered by either a 3.0 Liter inline 6-cylinder engine which develops 260hp and 15mpg city - 21mpg highway or a 4.8 Liter V-8 generating 350hp and 14mpg city - 20mpg highway. Standard on both the 3.0si and the 4.8i is a smooth 6-speed automatic transmission with Adaptive Transmission Control which means you have the ability to select from 9 different driving modes, depending on your driving habits and the demands of the road. Further adjusting to the road is the X5's xDrive All-Wheel Drive System which distributes power to the wheels in response to each one's grip of the road. The result is even greater sure-footedness than with any other 4-wheel drive system.

Passengers in the third row of the BMW X5 will not be left in the dark thanks to the panoramic power moonroof which opens wide and includes a wind deflector and shade to block bright sunlight. As navigation systems go, the one installed in the X5 has it all, including RTTI, Real Time Traffic Information to let you stay on schedule by zipping around the congestion on the road. Have your speed and navigation directions displayed right on the windshield with the optional heads-up display for distraction-free driving.

You will never have to worry about losing traction or control with Dynamic Stability Control sensing and helping you regain command. Sensors can detect the earliest difficulty and alert you, even to the point of applying throttle or braking in just the right amount to return control. Not only a convenience, Dynamic Stability Control can be a life saver driving in slippery road conditions. The second member of the X5's safety team is its run-flat tires which can allow you to drive to a service station or garage up to 150 miles away. For owners of the 2008 BMW X5, they have never been safer or able to drive a more satisfying vehicle, and now, with third-row seating available up to 7 passengers can ride in comfort and style.