BMW joined the luxury sport utility vehicle ranks in the 2000 model year with its X5, a car-based model created to challenge the Infiniti QX4, Lexus RX 300 and Mercedes-Benz M-Class. Equipped with permanently engaged four-wheel drive (4WD), BMW says the X5 is suitable for any road, any time, any reason, but it isn't really intended for use as a true offroad vehicle. Instead, BMW calls the X5 a sports activity vehicle. The stylish and sporty SUV is produced at BMW's plant in Spartanburg, S.C., alongside the company's Z3 sports car. Seating for five occupants is available in the X5. It features a high position for the driver and a 60/40-split, folding seat in the rear. Standard X5 amenities include a leather-trimmed interior, heated front seats and familiar red instrument-panel lighting in a carlike dashboard. Options include an in-dash CD player, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, a moonroof and BMWs navigation system. The cargo volume with the seats folded down is 54.4 cubic feet.
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