The 2004 BMW X5 feature freshened styling cues, though no one is likely to mistake it for something other than the familiar X5. From the windshield forward, all of the sheet metal is new for 2004. The contours of the X5's hood are more pronounced, the grilles are wider and set higher, and the headlight clusters are reshaped. The front bumper has new contours and fog lights. Side by side with a 2003 X5, the changes for 2004 are noticeable.There's no question who builds this vehicle. The BMW X5 looks like a 5 Series wagon on steroids, and is remarkably close to the wagon in overall size. From its kidney-shaped grille to its multi-segmented tail lights, the curvy X5 is all Bimmer. The slope of the tailgate matches that on the 5 Series wagon. The major difference is that the X5 is 10 inches taller than the 5 Series wagon, which creates a key component of its sport-utility character. Large-diameter wheels with low-profile tires enhance its aggressive appearance. The new BMW X5 4.8is sports a unique front air dam, body kit, and huge wheels and tires. Truck-based SUVs, such as the Mercedes-Benz M-Class, are built with a separate body bolted onto a boxed ladder frame. The X5, however, uses a monocoque body shell like that of a regular sedan. This unit-body construction provides a much stiffer structure, which improves handling, reduces noise and allows better fit and finish, though many consider the design less rugged and durable. The X5 is not the first unit-body SUV, and many more have followed. With a few notable exceptions (such as the Jeep Grand Cherokee), unit-body SUVs tend to be like the X5, with on-pavement performance taking precedence over off-road ability.
|