The Technology Package’s rear-view camera and park distance warning system are handy in a large vehicle, but would be nice to have as a stand-alone pair. The Comfort Package is the one I think is the most worthwhile, as it’s almost worth the price just for the terrific seats and power tailgate. The auto-dimming mirrors and compass that are part of the expensive Premium Package should be standard features in a $50,000-plus vehicle.

Test Drive: 2009 BMW X5 xDrive 35d bmw
2009 BMW X5 xDrive35d. Click image to enlarge

BMW’s approach to introducing North America to its diesel tech is to promote it to shoppers as a premium choice. Many think starting off by positioning diesels as entry-level models would be a better idea, but I disagree; diesels already have a bad reputation with many buyers and making them seem like the cheapest choice won’t help.

The premium approach will allow diesel doubters to see that new diesel tech (which is to say, quiet, clean and efficient) is well-suited to even high-end vehicles. In theory, this will allow the technology to trickle down to less-expensive models and, hopefully, prompt more mainstream automakers to bring their latest, more affordable diesel engines to North America.

BMW has waited a long time to bring its diesel engines to North America, but the wait was certainly worth it.

Pricing: 2009 BMW X5 xDrive 35d
  • Base price: $62,200
  • Options: $12,325 (Activity Package, $1,300; Technology Package, $3,300; Comfort Package, $2,700; Premium Package, $3,950; USB audio integration, $425; satellite radio, $650)
  • A/C tax: $100
  • Freight: $1,400
  • Price as tested: $76,025
    Click here for options, dealer invoice prices and factory incentives

    Specifications
  • Specifications: 2009 BMW X5

    Competitors
  • Buyer’s Guide: 2009 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  • Buyer’s Guide: 2009 Audi Q7 TDI

    Crash test results
  • National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
  • Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS)

    • Related posts:

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    2. Day-by-Day Review: 2009 BMW 335i xDrive
    3. Bring It On! 2009 BMW 335i xDrive, Part one
    4. Bring it on! 2009 BMW 335i xDrive, Part Two
    5. BMW announces pricing of 2009 diesel models
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