While improving driving enjoyment such active safety features also substantially decrease the chances of engaging in an accident. If the unfathomable does occur though, X5 occupants can rest assured their conveyance is almost armor plated. The current X5 achieved top passive safety marks in the Euro NCAP test, receiving a 5-Star rating in the "Large Offroader" class - they obviously have never seen a Ford Excursion if they think the X5 is large. Back to the BMW in question, it also was honored with a "Best Pick" by the U.S. Insurance Institute for Highway Safety in the 40 mph offset crash test.
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| Bi-Xenon head light technology greatly increases night visibility over traditional Xenon headlamps. (Photo: BMW AG) |
Back to active safety, night visibility from inside V8 models is reportedly way up due to new optional Adaptive Head Lights. They include Bi-Xenon technology, which achieves much better illumination than regular Xenon headlamps. While not standard equipment on X5 3.0i models, the upgraded lamps are optional.
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| Another impressive safety feature of the updated X5 is the trailer stabilization control system, which can prevent dangerous fishtailing. (Photo: BMW AG) |
Another safety system only benefits those who tow heavy loads. BMW offers trailer stabilization control to prevent the side to side swaying commonly called fishtailing - a potentially dangerous situation than can result in rollovers. The X5's DSC stability control includes sensors that preempt potential problems and safely apply the brakes to bring the trailer back into control.
Whether trailer towers or not, the new X5 delivers a lot of improvements to cause current owners to trade up. What remains to be seen is if it offers enough of everything to lure in the uninitiated. Limited cargo capacity has always been the model's sore point, while new competitors offer the flexibility of 7-occupant seating. While competitive in its top price range, the base X5 3.0i currently starts at a hefty $57,800, a lot to swallow for those looking for a 6-cylinder luxury SUV.