2009 BMW X5 - Quality Review

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The quality of the materials and roomy seating of the 2009 BMW X5 make for a richly appointed, spacious SUV.

Car and Driver calls the interior "comfortable and spacious" but notes "third-row space is tight." MyRide.com concurs, appreciating the "front/second row comfort," but not really feeling the "third row comfort" that the BMW X5 has to offer. Edmunds states that the "optional folding third row is best suited for children and gymnastically inclined members of the Lollipop Guild."

Each rear door has a storage bin, giving this 2009 BMW plenty of places for stowing, as to not impede on the cabin space in use. Cars.com says, "the cargo floor boasts nearly four extra inches of length compared to its predecessor." MyRide.com notes the storage bins in both front doors and a "clever clam shell glove box" that allows an individual to place more than just the owner's manual inside. The center console is deep, with pockets on the back of each front seat to store maps and other items the rear passengers may need.

The only complaint about the interior of the BMW X5 is the "flimsy plastic" used in the panels covering the opening of the ski bag and the tailgate's hinged panel. The plastic handle of the cargo area's locking bin is also considered flimsy. Edmunds believes the interior is one of the "most elegant" built by BMW. MyRide.com notes that the BMW X5's "plastics...have nice grain surfaces or are finished to look like aluminum."

ConsumerGuide reports "some engine noise and coarse-surface tire thrum, but otherwise, the 2009 BMW X5 is pleasantly quiet." MyRide.com says, "Large mirrors do come with a drawback: wind noise." They note "some road noise," but it is no more than what they would expect from tires that can work well no matter the season.