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Going from my '99 Jeep Grand Cherokee to the cockpit of an X5 is like going from a Cessna 182 to a Learjet. The red lighting looks great, is easy on the eyes and unique. In the daylight it's adequate, but at night I preferred dimming the lights by about 25%. Didn't like the seatbelt light staying on all the time - but I guess it's better than a repeating warning tone. Plus, I better start buckling up - it's the law!!!
The adjustable ride height feature is controlled by a 3-position rocker switch to the right of the headlamp switch. With the doors closed and speed below 20MPH, pressing the switch down lowers the X5 about 3 inches. This looks cool from the outside and facilitates entry/exit and loading/unloading. Once over 20MPH the car automatically raises to normal height. The highest setting raises the car about 2 inches and seems to disengage at about 35MPH. I think the car should automatically lower when in PARK - perhaps this is programmable by the dealer.
The suspension is much tighter than the Jeep's. Every imperfection in the road is amplified. But I guess that's the trade-off between handling and comfort. Does the X5 suspension soften-up a bit after a certain break-in period? Still not sure whether the air system with ARH helps with comfort and sound levels.
It had the base sound system, and I think it sounded GREAT!! I played 3 CDs with different types of music (Euro-Dance, Folk & Rock). With the FLAT setting, I almost maxed the volume on each CD and didn't hear any distortion. I've never heard the premium sound system...is it that much better than the standard system? Anybody know if the "boomy sound" problems are fixed in the '02 premium audio equipment?
The automatic headlights worked flawlessly. Steering is improved with more assist at low speeds. Seats are comfortable. Are the comfort seats worth the extra money? The heated seats are great. The 3-position settings are perfectly calibrated. The rear seats seem to take a LONG time to heat up, though. Hate the plastic red dome under the rearview mirror. Also heard a slight rattling in the back.
Didn't like the excessive wind noise. It sounded like it was loudest near the top of the windshield. Not sure if this is normal or if this X5 had a faulty seal. The Jeep has excessive wind noise from the sides, so perhaps it is an SUV-THANG - simply a function of aerodynamics. Wind gusts are less noticable than in the Jeep, though.
Great handling. Great looks. Great feeling. It's GRRREAAAT!!! After I take a 3.0 for an extended drive, I will probably place my order.
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