BMW X5 Little Known Facts

The first generation (E53) had a fuel economy range of 9-13mpg in city driving and 17-23mpg on the highway.
The X5 was the world's first SUV with all-wheel drive to be offered as an option on a manual transmission model.
BMW X5 SAV (Sport Activity Vehicle) was sold as E53 for North America from 2000 to 2006, while in other markets it was badged as BMW E53 X5 from 1999.
The first generation's engine options included three V8 petrol engines with capacities ranging from 3.5L to 4.7L and a single diesel unit of 2.5L.
BMW introduced the first-ever SUV model in North America, breaking a Toyota 4Runner sales record for that year (1999) by selling over 12,000 units in just two months.
The first X5 had a boot space volume capacity of 480 liters with all seats up, and expandable to 1260 liters with the rear seats folded down.
The E53's base model price was around $39,995 (USD) when it launched in North America.
Early versions featured an option for a third row seat which effectively turned the X5 into a BMW 7 Series MPV.
First generation models had a total of six airbags, including dual front, side and curtain airbags.
The E53 featured an advanced system called "Dynamic Stability Control" that included a feature to detect when a driver was losing control and intervene automatically.
In the early 2000s, BMW added an option for a Rearview Camera System (RCC) which became a precursor to modern day reversing cameras.
The X5 won several awards in its first generation including the Motor Trend SUV of the Year award in 1999 and the Car and Driver Best Car Award for Luxury Utility Vehicles from 2001-2003.
A limited production run version called the BMW X5 M Sport was created with a sport-tuned suspension system and more aggressive exterior styling.
The X5's interior featured an innovative control system which included touch-sensitive controls for various functions including air conditioning and audio settings.
BMW announced that it would be offering its first-ever all-wheel-drive SUV model, the BMW X5, at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 1999, making headlines across Europe.
Early models had a unique option called "Servotronic" which was essentially an electric power steering system for improved fuel economy and reduced driver fatigue.
The E53 featured six airbags as standard but also offered advanced safety features such as Dynamic Stability Control and ABS (Anti-lock Braking System).
There were two petrol V8 options available, a 4.7L unit producing 294 horsepower and a smaller 3.5L engine producing 235 horsepower.
BMW X5's interior featured an option for leather seats in various colors including black, beige and grey, while the dashboard trim was made from a high-quality burl walnut wood veneer.
A limited production run version called the BMW X5 M Sport included a sport-tuned suspension system to further enhance handling capabilities.

BMW, X5 Little Known Facts