The kidneys can't get much wider. Body side bulges much reduced. If the third-generation BMW X5 has a sexy angle, this is it.
Bulkier nose, lower roof, less muscular fenders make for a more generic BMW X5. Rear side window kink, L-shaped LED tail lamps identify the new X5 as a current BMW.
With its face out of view, one might mistake the new BMW X5 for the new Toyota Highlander... ...except the Toyota has acquired the muscular fenders of the old X5 (and ungainly proportions).
Interior styling and materials are both very BMW. Optional white interior includes white floors...in an SUV. Leather IP also available separately.
As in other recently redesigned BMWs, the infotainment display looks like it retracts, but doesn't. BMW's multicontour seat is among the industry's best for both comfort and support.
The X5's rear seat is too low. Also tight if slid forward to enable the 3rd row. Not a good use of $1,700. If you need a BMW with a third row, wait for the X7.
Very little cargo space behind the third-row seat. But a row of grocery bags will fit. Still not an abundance of cargo space with the third row folded to form a flat floor.
With both rows folded, there's almost as much cargo space as in the half-ton-lighter Honda CR-V. 445-horsepower V8 engine burbles nicely at idle, brutally quick when prodded.