BMW’s midsize luxury crossover SUV, the X5, returns in 2008 as splendid as ever. More power, size and features grace the X5 design scheme. The exterior of the 2008 X5 is adorned with dual power outside mirrors, 18 x 8.5 Star Spoke light alloy wheels, chrome exhaust tips, roof rails, rain-sensing windshield wipers, halogen free-form foglights and a continuing list that is seemingly endless.

If you opt for the third row seat, up to seven passengers can fit inside the X5 cabin. The rear seat is split folding, so you can always remove it if more room for cargo is needed. This cabin is decked out with leather, heated seats, wood trim, ample storage space, climate control, micro-filter ventilation, power windows and a continuing list of amenities. The instrumentation of the cabin is equally as enthralling as the comfort characteristics. An electronic analog instrumentation display with LED illumination sits by the driver. In the same area, the iDrive system’s LCD monitor sits and is able to control various vehicle options. Some technologies the driver has control over include dynamic cruise control, the MP3 compatible audio system and more; the driver can view vehicle performance details as well as internal and external weather conditions from the same system.

The 2008 X5-3.0si trim runs on a 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine that generates 260 horsepower and 225 pounds-feet of torque. The higher-up X5-4.8si trim gets a 4.8-liter V8 engine that generates 350 horsepower and 350 pounds-feet of torque. Both trims work with a six-speed automatic transmission and come with standard xDrive all-wheel drive. All of this is kept safe with side-curtain airbags, frontal airbags, rollover sensors, the Head Protection System and Active Head Restraints. Other standard safety features include an electronic stability system, antilock brakes, 3-point safety belts and more!

The 2008 X5 is worth a look because not only does it perform well, protect well and look good, but also it is a pleasure for everyone who rides in it. The comfort alone is enough to give this new BMW model a look.