What is it? This swoopy new SUV is styled much like a four-door coupe. Power will come from the same turbocharged 300-hp, 3.0-liter six-cylinder offered in the 3 and 5 Series, as well as a turbocharged 400-hp, 4.4-liter V8. The only transmission offered is a six-speed automatic with paddle shifters. All-wheel drive is standard, biased 40:60 front to rear.
The interior features seating for five within the curvy body. Luxurious features and materials are used throughout, and the frustrating iDrive controller is standard.
The full complement of safety gear includes standard rollover detection, curtain air bags, and electronic stability control.
What is new or notable? Besides the radical (and polarizing) styling, BMW has included a standard system to divide torque between the rear wheels, like in the Acura MDX and RDX, for better handling. The twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 is also brand new. It uses direct fuel injection for better efficiency.
When will it be available? Spring 2008.
Consumer Reports New cars: A to Z
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