Doug DeMuro gives the original X5 a strong positive review (82.9/100), praising it as a game-changing vehicle that successfully translates BMW's car-focused engineering into an SUV format. The standout strengths are its performance (91.7/100)—featuring a smooth 225-hp straight-six engine and rear-biased all-wheel drive that handles like a sedan—and its tech (87.5/100), with tactile controls and thoughtful features like the analog MPG display. The main weakness is practicality (60.0/100), as the cargo area is "not extremely large" with limited storage space despite some clever touches like the full-size spare tire. This vehicle appeals to buyers who prioritize driving dynamics and premium build quality over maximum cargo capacity.