First and foremost, there's the 4.8-litre Valvetronic V-8. Its 350 horsepower might not move the 2,296-kilogram X5 (now 145 kilograms heavier, thanks to the second-generation's stretched wheelbase) or quite as fast as the aforementioned M5, but, among SUVs, it's a giant killer. Only Porsche's topline Cayenne Turbo and Mercedes' outrageous ML63 AMG can out-muscle it in a straight line, although I would contend that the Bimmer's high-revving V-8 is smoother and more pleasant than either of the other two.

What this means in everyday driving is that the X5 retains the flat cornering endemic to all of BMW's sporty automobiles, but it manages to do so with something approaching a compliant ride. Of course, the more comfortable compliance was aided by the tester's smaller 18-inch snow tires, but there's no questioning that the new X5's greatest improvement over its predecessor is in ride comfort.

Those buying the new X5 for its practicality more than its performance might argue that the 2008's increased roominess is an even bigger advantage over the old model's. While I personally can't call the availability of a third row of seats a major advantage, the 190 millimetres or so BMW added to the X5's overall length is. Cargo volume is up substantially, there's ample legroom in the second row and, yes, if you insist, the X5 can double as a seven-passenger minivan if the third row's occupants are tiny.