BMW 1-Series Lease Model Strengths:
Entry-level pricing; sleek BMW family design; terrific straight six engines; extensive standard features.

BMW 1-Series Lease Model Changes:
BMW's 1-Series is an all-new model for 2009, slotting beneath the venerable lineup of 3-Series cars and serving as an affordable entry into BMW ownership. It is also billed as a throwback to the company's legendary 2002 of the 1960s and 1970s. It is available in a few trim levels, including the 128i, which features a 230-horsepower 3.0L inline six, and a 135i, which makes use of a 300-horsepower 3.0L inline six. Both engines are tried and tested and found across the range in the 3- and 5-Series. A 1-Series convertible in either 128i or 135i configuration will be available later in 2008. Pricing starts at $28,600 for the 128i, while the 135i starts at $34,900.


BMW 1-Series Lease Model Value:
The 2009 BMW 1-Series has been a long time coming, with initial hints and rumors dating back to 2001. Though the BMW 3-Series has traditionally been BMW's entry-level car, its entire segment has gone up-market in recent years. The company's Mini Cooper has been a big hit in the hatchback market, and the 1-Series slots in nicely just above it to fill the void and give younger buyers the chance to own and drive a BMW. It's a stylish little coupe that recalls the iconic 2002, and should offer plenty of competition to cars like the Audi A3 and Volvo C30.



BMW pioneered the "sports sedan" in the mid-1960s when it gave the world the 2002, and the Munich-based carmaker has built a strong reputation on furthering its pursuit of performance and practicality. The 1-Series is its newest offering, and the stylish coupe gives first-time buyers easy access to a great tradition.The 1-Series comes in two basic flavors-128i and 135i-with variation through options available on both cars. Both are rear-wheel drive, and the BMW 128i (i for fuel injection) is powered by a 230-horsepower 3.0L inline six-cylinder. The 300-horsepower BMW 135i utilizes a twin-turbocharged version of that 3.0L inline six. Both engines feature BMW's advanced electronic throttle control and Double-VANOS steplessly variable valve timing. A six-speed manual is standard on each car, while a six-speed Steptronic automatic with steering-wheel paddle shifters is available.The BMW 128i comes loaded with plenty of standard exterior features, including chromed exhaust tips, 17-inch alloy wheels, rain-sensing windshield wipers, dual power heated mirrors, and halogen fog lamps. Inside, eight-way adjustable front seats with two-way headrests are standard, as are power windows and locks, leatherette upholstery, a leather-wrapped tilt/telescopic steering wheel with dynamic cruise and audio controls, and split fold-down rear seats. All 128i cars come with a power moonroof, automatic climate control with individual user recall settings, and a 10-speaker CD/MP3 stereo with auxiliary input jack.The twin-turbocharged, 300-horsepower 135i adds 18-inch wheels and a sport-tuned suspension, xenon adaptive headlights with auto leveling, a rear spoiler, and an aerodynamic kit.Options and packages available on the 1-Series include a Sport Package, which adds 17-inch performance wheels and tires, sport suspension, shadowline trim, and sport seats. The Premium Package includes auto-dimming interior and exterior mirrors, power front seats with driver memory, various wood and aluminum interior trims, a universal garage door opener, and a choice of four interior leathers. Standalone options like variable-ratio active steering, heated front seats, navigation with iDrive, premium sound and satellite radio systems, and rear park distance control are available. A Cold Weather Package adds a ski bag and heated front seats. On the 135i, the Sport Package includes an M steering wheel.Standard safety features on all 1-Series cars include run-flat tires with an air pressure monitor, stability control, four-wheel anti-lock brakes with dynamic brake control and brake drying, adaptive brake lights, dual-stage front air bags, front seat-mounted side-impact air bags, programmable daytime running lights, and more. A BMW 1-Series convertible available in both 128i or 135i configurations will be available later in 2008.


BMW 3-Series Lease Model Strengths: Driving pleasure par excellence; wide variety of bodies and drivetrains; the best inline six-cylinder engines for those who love motoring; the near-supercar M3.


BMW 3-Series Lease Model Changes: BMW's excellent 3-Series returns for 2009 with minimal changes to the core lineup, save for the addition of the all-wheel-drive 335xi coupe (previously available only with rear-wheel drive). Paddle shifters are newly optional on the entry-level 328 versions. On the 335i coupe, a new 19-inch alloy wheel set is available, and the standard 16-inch alloy wheels have been restyled for the 328 sedans and sport wagons.The new M3 is 2008's big change. The coupe is expected to go on sale in the U.S. in spring of 2008. M-level exhilaration will be provided by an all-new ridiculously light high-revving 4.0L V8 engine-it is 33 pounds lighter than the previous M3's inline six-creating 420 horsepower at a pulse-raising 8,400 rpm. It will make 60 mph in 4.8 seconds. A carbon fiber roof will lighten and lower the car. Other firsts for this latest generation of M3 are an aluminum suspension, Mdrive for driver configuration of the engine control, and a nifty regenerative braking system that powers the electronics.


BMW 3-Series Lease Model Value: The 2009 BMW 3-Series continues to be the benchmark against which other entry-level luxury cars are measured, mainly courtesy of its excellent driving experience. Power, braking, and handling are perfectly matched to the vehicle's size and intended usage. The way BMW takes care of business inside the cockpit also has a lot to do with the popularity of this breed. The 3-Series makes sure no buyer is left behind by offering four body styles, three engines, and both rear- and all-wheel drive. 2008 also will see the new M3 in coupe, sedan, and convertible form, adding racecar-like performance to the lineup.


BMW 3-Series Lease Model Overview:BMW's 3-Series has always been an exemplar of how to combine luxury and sportiness, and this continues with the 2008 versions. The 328i features BMW's exceptional 3.0L engine, which uses double-VANOS technology to steplessly adjust both the intake and exhaust timing on way to producing 230 horsepower. The 335i models are powered by a twin-turbocharged version of the same six-cylinder. This gem of an engine produces 300 horsepower and an equal amount of torque. Both six-cylinder powerplants are matched with a superb six-speed manual transmission, while a six-speed Steptronic automatic transmission is a option.The 3-Series is available as a coupe, a retractable hardtop convertible, a sedan, and a wagon. In addition to rear-wheel drive, all-wheel drive is available on all body types except the convertible. All vehicles have a marvelously balanced chassis and outstanding road feel. Easily adjusted and very supportive seats are the norm, as is one of the nicest steering wheels found in a modern automobile. A stiff suspension means the 3-Series is at its best when carving corners.The fourth generation of the legendary M3 joins the lineup in 2008. Coupe, sedan (a first in 13 years), and convertible versions will be available, all powered by an all-new high-revving 4.0L V8 engine. The light powerplant-it is about 33 pounds lighter than the previous M3 generation's inline six-cylinder-will generate 420 horsepower and spin up to 8,400 rpm. Power production was enough of a concern for the naturally aspirated engine that much of the front end is changed from the normal 3-Series in order to maximize air intake-so much so that the fog lights normally standard on the 3-Series are omitted for more air intake capacity. Other performance-minded improvements include a lower carbon fiber roof, a new aluminum suspension, Mdrive to allow driver configuration of the engine control, high-performance compound brakes, and a regenerative braking system that powers the electronics.Standard equipment is generous, with stability and traction controls, xenon adaptive headlights, a moonroof, power heated mirrors, a tire pressure monitor, dynamic cruise control, automatic tri-zone climate control, a 10-speaker audio system, side seat-mounted and curtain air bags, and power windows and locks. The all-wheel-drive versions add retractable headlight washers. The BMW 335i models include a memory feature for the mirrors, power seats, a LOGIC7 sound system with 13 speakers and surround sound simulation, and an assortment of visual adjustments.Differences between body styles, aside from the obvious, are minimal, except for the M3. The convertibles add memory to the mirrors and power to the seats. The sedan and wagon ride on 16-inch alloys instead of the 17-inchers found on the coupe and convertible. The wagon also has roof rails for extra cargo-toting flexibility.Options are extensive, ranging from a rear parking assist and a DVD-based navigation system, to run-flat performance tires and an increased top-speed limiter. New for 2008, paddle shifters can be added to the entry-level BMW 328i versions.

BMW 5-Series Lease Model Strengths: Track-ready performance M5; all-wheel drive optional; wagon available.


BMW 5-Series Lease Model Changes: For 2009, BMW's iconic 5-Series undergoes mostly minor changes, although new, more powerful 6-cylinder engines are significant improvements. 2007's 525 entry-level cars have been upgraded with a 3.0L 230-horsepower engine, changing the nomenclature to 528. The formerly-known-as-530 cars receive a 3.0L twin-turborcharged inline six that improves horsepower by 45 (300 total) and ups the badging to 535. Base prices increase modestly, between $400 and $1,900, depending on the vehicle. Only the 550i does not increase in price.Small changes to the exterior have been made, including a refresh of the headlight and taillight design. Inside, the center console is now leather-trimmed. iDrive has been enhanced with six programmable memory keys to improve usability.The automatic transmission has been upgraded and is now a no-cost option (in 2007, not shifting cost $1,275). The sequential manual gearbox (SMG) is no longer offered on the 535i and 550i-in its place, a sport six-speed automatic can be ordered. A lane departure warning system is optional, as is a high-beam assist function. The active cruise control now features "stop and go" capability, and there is a USB adapter for MP3 players. The Sport Package on the 528i adds 18-inch wheels and tires versus 2007's 17-inchers. On the M5, a heated steering wheel is available.


BMW 5-Series Lease Model Value: The 2009 BMW 5-Series offers passenger-carrying performance from one of the most respected car manufacturers on the planet. The wide model range includes the renowned M5 to satisfy closet racers, a wagon in 535xiT all-wheel-drive trim to provide cargo capacity when the road becomes twisty, and the elegant entry-version 528i sedan.


BMW 5-Series Lease Model Overview: The 2009 BMW 5-Series serves up a range of possibilities, all backed by performance ability and luxury features. All 5-Series come with comprehensive stability technology that includes dynamic stability control, dynamic traction control, and dynamic brake control.The 528i and 535i sedans come standard as rear-wheel drive, with all-wheel-drive systems adding to the list. The BMW 550i and M5 sedans are rear-wheel drive only, and the 535 wagon is available in all-wheel drive only. New six-cylinder engines add power to the 528s and 535s. The 528s receive a new 3.0L inline six that produces 230 horsepower-a modest 15-horsepower improvement over 2007. The 535s receive a 45-horsepower bump (300 total) over 2007 by virtue of a new 3.0L twin-turbocharged inline six. The 550 and M5 round out the power offerings. The 550's V8 produces 360 horsepower and the M5's V10 an even 500.The Steptronic automatic transmission is a no-cost option. The sequential manual gearbox (SMG) is no longer offered on the 535i and 550i-in its place, a six-speed sport automatic with paddle shifters can be added for $500.Standard features on the 5-Series include a power sunroof with an anti-trap feature, automatic headlights, fog lights, power mirrors with auto tilt-down, tri-zone climate control, and iDrive. In addition to the powertrain upgrade, the 535 gets xenon headlights with auto-leveling and 10-way power front seats. The 550i adds Dakota leather seats and front and rear park distance control.Options for the 528i include genuine Dakota leather seats for as well as a Premium Package that includes power driver seat lumbar support, interior illumination, and a universal garage door opener. The Sport Package upgrades the tires to 245 series run-flats on 18-inch wheels, 20-way power front seats, active roll stabilization, and a sport-tuned suspension. Active cruise control with a "stop and go" function is available, as is a navigation system and an audiophile Logic7 sound system with 13 speakers and twin subwoofers. For 2008, a lane departure warning system is optional. A high-beam assist option gives drivers one less thing to worry about, while a USB adapter adds to the audio possibilities.On the 535s, Premium and Sport Packages are also available; the Sport Package upgrades the wheels and tires to 18-inch run-flats.On the 550i, the Sport Package includes 19-inch wheels and run-flat tires as well as 20-way power seats for $4,600. A Premium Package is not available on the 550i, as the equipment is already standard.The performance-oriented M5 is a completely different story, and it stands apart from the rest of the 5-Series as one of the best performance sedans in the world. Every part of the car seems designed with high speed handling in mind. It's equipped with a high-output aluminum 5.0L V10 that uses stepless variable valve timing and direct ignition to generate its adrenalin-inducing 500 horsepower. The engine is mated to a seven-speed SMG transmission with 11 shift programs and launch control (a conventional six-speed manual transmission is also available). The wheels are driven via a variable differential lock and a special dynamic stability control program unique to the M5. Further performance enhancements include M-specific suspension, cross drilled disc brakes, body panels with air intakes and spoiler, and even M-specific Merino leather heated power front seats. For 2008, a heated steering wheel can be added.

BMW 6-Series Lease Model Strengths: High performance in all regards; exceptional seats; comfortable ride; high-tech options.


BMW 6-Series Lease Model Changes: Mostly unchanged, the BMW 6-Series receives minor freshening and equipment changes for 2009. The front end has been restyled to increase air intake for engine cooling, and the trunk lid has also been reshaped. LEDs accent the taillights and turn signals. Inside, iDrive's programming has been tweaked for greater ease of use.On the 650i coupe and convertible, the two optional six-speed automatic transmissions from 2007-the Sportronic and the sequential manual gearbox (SMG)-have been replaced by a new six-speed sport automatic transmission with paddle shifters. Also newly optional are high beam assist and a lane departure warning system. The Logic7 surround sound has dropped off the list of options, and you can now get the M6 with a heated steering wheel. The adaptive cruise control has been enhanced with a "stop and go" feature to make driving in traffic less stressful.

BMW 6-Series Lease Model Value: The 2009 BMW 6-Series sedan stands apart from its 5-Series sibling thanks to its high-tech, performance-oriented features, which enable it to fill the double role of sports car and comfy luxury coupe. And the exclusive M6 model has performance to rival many exotics from specialty sports car makers, while still having enough refinement for everyday driving.

BMW 6-Series Lease Model Overview: BMW's performance luxury coupe and convertible 6-Series models are available in the U.S. primarily in 650i form for 2008, which includes a 360-horsepower, 4.8L V8 engine with variable valve timing and variable intake lifts and a dual exhaust system. The engine is matched to two possible transmissions: a six-speed manual transmission and, new for 2009, a six-speed sport automatic transmission with steering wheel paddles.The convertible model has a thick, well-insulated soft top with an electrically retractable glass window; overall its coefficient of drag is almost as good as the coupe's, which should result in low wind noise. It includes additional body reinforcements and an Automatic Rollover Protection System.The 650i includes many features geared toward enthusiastic driving, without giving up comfort when it's appreciated. The Dynamic Driving Control system is standard, with which the driver can change the behavior of a number of controls, including the throttle, transmission, and steering feel, with a Normal or Sport setting. Active Roll Stabilization, which aids in flat cornering, is also standard, and vehicle speed-sensitive steering is also standard. An Active Steering system, which varies the steering ratio according to speed and other conditions, is optional.Big four-wheel disc anti-lock brakes are standard, along with 18-inch run-flat tires. An optional Sport Package brings 19-inch wheels with performance tires in staggered sizes, front to back, for improved performance. There are also some innovative lighting features; xenon adaptive headlamps swivel slightly to the side to help illuminate into corners, and adaptive brake lights shine brighter during hard braking. To remove three things from the list of driver worries, there are new options for high beam assist and a lane departure warning system, and the adaptive cruise control now features a "stop and go" function. Inside, the 6-Series is a 2+2, meaning that the back seat only has enough space for small children. For front passengers, the experience is high-tech and luxurious. All 6-ers includes BMW's iDrive system, enhanced for 2008, which combines controls for communication, audio, climate control, and navigation into a menu system accessed through a haptic controller mounted on the center console. A Pearl leather option, with different stitching and Nasca leather trim, offers a more supple feel relative to the standard Dakota leather.The 6-Series models come very well equipped as luxury cars, but especially notable standard equipment includes power seats with adjustable lumbar support, leather upholstery, a power moonroof (on coupes), and a dual-zone climate control with odor filtration and humidity control. The standard sound system includes eight speakers and two subwoofers.At the top of the range is the high-performance M6 model, with a 500-horsepower, 5.0L V10 engine and seven-speed sequential manual gearbox (SMG). BMW claims a 0-60 time of only 4.5 seconds, though the major magazines have clocked it even faster. The M6 is available in both coupe and convertible variants, and loaded with equipment to make it track-ready, such as a G-sensitive lubrication system, a variable differential lock, a specially designed suspension, a performance-calibrated version of the DSC stability system, an Electronic Damping Control (EDC) system that allows customizable settings, and a twin-chamber exhaust system that allows two different sound characteristics.


BMW's 7-Series Lease Model Strengths: High-technology features; roomy interior (L); comfortable ride; overall performance; exclusivity (especially 760 and Alpina B7).


BMW's 7-Series Lease Model Changes: Two new variations of the color black-Azurite Black Metallic and Ruby Black Metallic-are introduced for the 2008 BMW 7-Series. There's also a special-order Individual Package, which includes special exterior colors offering varied color intensity and glistening effects, plus unique 20-inch wheels and illuminated door sills. Otherwise the 7-Series is carried over from 2007 with no significant changes.


BMW's 7-Series Lease Model Value: BMW's 2008 7-Series is by no means cheap, but it offers smooth, powerful, and sophisticated powertrains, top technology features, and the opportunity to add traditional luxury features and distinct interior trims. Especially in long-wheelbase form, it offers just as much room and comfort as other prestige luxury sedans, yet it has the nimble handling and sharp responses of smaller, lighter sport sedans.


BMW's 7-Series Lease Model Overview: BMW's 7-Series sedan is now offered in three models: 750i, 750Li, and 760Li. The models designated "L" are longer overall and have a wheelbase that is 5.5 inches longer for a roomier interior and expanded rear legroom especially. The 750 models are powered by a 360-horsepower, 4.8L V8 engine, while the 760 comes with a 438-horsepower, 6.0L V12 engine. All 7-Series models have rear-wheel drive, along with a Steptronic six-speed automatic transmission, which allows manual selection of gearshifts when desired.Both the V8 and V12 engines have Valvetronic, which varies valve lift and allows better fuel-efficiency than is typical from engines this size. The 750 achieves EPA fuel economy ratings of 17 mpg city, 25 mpg highway.The big 7-Series has the reflexes of a lighter sport sedan, thanks to a lightweight aluminum suspension system, variable-ratio and variable-assist systems for the steering, and large four-wheel disc brakes. An Adaptive Ride Package, which is standard on the 760 but optional on the 750, brings electronic damping control and a self-leveling rear suspension.The Individual option brings Xirallic paint, which has distinct color nuances and effects. Wheels are noteworthy across the line. The 750 comes with attractive 18-inch alloys, while the Sport Package and the Individual option include showy 20-inchers.A wide range of active and passive safety features are standard on the 7-Series. Electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes, and electronic roll stabilization are included, as are front side air bags, a tubular-structure head protection system, active head restraints, and active knee protection. Rear-seat side air bags are optional.All of the 7-Series models come extremely well equipped, with standard 20-way-adjustable, three-stage-heated comfort seats in front, perforated Nasca leather upholstery, American walnut wood trim, a power moonroof, rain-sensing wipers, and auto-leveling xenon headlamps. The 760 adds power soft-closing side doors and trunklid, ventilated, upgraded seats, a heated steering wheel with upgraded controls, a 13-speaker Logic7 sound system, and two-tone burl walnut trim with an Alcantara headliner.Many high-tech features not yet widely offered on other cars are available on the 7-Series, including adaptive cruise control, which can maintain a set, safe following distance from traffic ahead, and a night vision system that uses thermal imaging to help spot people and animals up to 1,000 feet ahead. Available comfort-oriented features include a heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, sunshades for rear and side windows, rear climate control, a coolbox, and 14-way-adjustable power rear seats with Active Ventilation. HD radio and a rear DVD entertainment system are also among the options.Also of note is the sporty, limited-availability Alpina B7 model, which brings a supercharged, 4.4L V8 making 500 horsepower, along with a sport-tuned suspension, huge 21-inch wheels and Z-rated tires, a performance exhaust system, and many of the same luxury features as the 760.

BMW X3 Lease Model Strengths: Reflexes like a sport sedan; plenty of room for people and luggage, with a compact footprint.

BMW X3 Lease Model Changes: The BMW X3, completely revised for 2009, sees only minor changes for 2008. Active head restraints are now standard, and there is a new Sport Activity Package that includes a leather-wrapped steering wheel, 18-inch alloy wheels, running boards, unique trim, and privacy glass. The Premium Package now includes ambient lighting.


BMW X3 Lease Model Value: The 2009 BMW X3 is a sport utility vehicle that places much more emphasis on "sport" than "utility." In fact, there are few other vehicles in this segment that feel as nimble and track-ready as the X3, while costing less than $40,000. That doesn't mean the X3 is an SUV in name only, though. With xDrive all-wheel drive, hill descent control, and a cargo capacity of up to 71.0 cubic feet, the X3 is still able to capably fill the ute role. It's just that with its excellent inline six and great sure-footedness, you may forget that's why you bought it in the first place.


BMW X3 Lease Model Overview: The 2009 BMW X3 comes with a silky smooth 3.0L inline six-cylinder engine that makes 260-horsepower and 225 lb-ft or torque. The vehicle also comes with xDrive, which is the latest development in BMW's AWD technology. It uses a special BMW servomotor to adjust the multi-disc clutch that splits the torque between the front and rear wheels, and in many circumstances the X3 feels just like a rear-wheel-drive vehicle. Reduced traction causes more power to be fed to the front, and the BMW DSC traction control can even reduce engine torque and brake individual wheels in order to conquer most any hill. A standard push-button hill descent control can maneuver the BMW X3 down steep or slippery hills with no driver throttle or braking input.The X3 has one and a half cubic feet less interior volume than the X5, and offers the usual combination of BMW austerity mixed with luxury. Options include such treats as xenon headlights, a six-speed automatic transmission, park assist, navigation, and a heated steering wheel. A Premium Package includes leather seats, auto-dimming mirrors, and Bluetooth. A Sport Package adds a stiffer suspension and larger wheels. The Cold Weather Package comes with front and rear heated seats, and headlight washers. A new Sport Activity Package includes 18-inch alloys, all-season tires, running boards, and privacy glass, as well as a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

BMW X5 Lease Model Strengths: Good compromise between sport wagon and rugged SUV; spacious interior; available luxury and technology options.

BMW X5 Lease Model Changes: After a complete redesign for 2007, the BMW X5 returns for 2009 with only a few feature changes. The dynamic stability control system now gets a number of additional safety-oriented features: brake drying, brake stand-by, brake fade compensation, and the start-off assistant. Also for 2008, the xDrive system's graphic display has been upgraded with new colors and typography and improved contrast, and the glove compartment is now larger. The standard sound system has been upgraded to one with 12 speakers, two subwoofers, and new speaker configurations.

BMW X5 Lease Model Value: The 2009 X5, which is called a "sports activity vehicle" by BMW, combines some of the best attributes of a sport wagon and an SUV, offering better handling than most SUVs yet some measure of off-road ability and toughness. In the first and second rows, the X5 offers a good, quiet ride as well. As in BMW's sedans, there's also plenty of opportunity to upgrade the X5 with high-tech options.


BMW X5 Lease Model Overview: BMW's BMW X5 lease comes in two different models for 2009-the 3.0si, and the 4.8i. The 3.0si is powered by a 3.0L inline six-cylinder engine making 260 horsepower; the 4.8i gets a 350-horsepower, 4.8L V8 engine. Both engines have sophisticated design features, including aluminum and magnesium construction and Valvetronic, which controls and varies valve lift to deliver full power when needed yet otherwise allows increased efficiency and smoothness. The transmission has three different modes-Drive, Sport, and Manual, which lets the driver command gearshifts when desired.The BMW X5 lease is built with a very stiff body structure and has a four-wheel independent suspension, including a double-wishbone setup in front and a multi-link arrangement in back; the setup is oriented toward a good ride and crisp handling on the road, yet it has the ruggedness for occasional light off-roading. The optional active steering system adjusts the effective ratio of the steering such that at low speed the steering wheel only needs to be turned twice to go from lock to lock, yet at high speeds the system has a long ratio for good stability. The system interfaces with AdaptiveDrive-part of the optional Sport Package-to coordinate the steering system's operation with active roll stabilization and electronic damping control.All BMW X5 lease models come with xDrive, a full-time all-wheel drive system that normally sends 60 percent of engine torque to the rear wheels but using a multi-disc clutch can steplessly vary torque to the front wheels, sending more as needed. XDrive interfaces with the stability control system to enhance handling safety.The BMW X5 lease comes with two rows of seating for a total of five adults, but a third row of seating is optional to seat seven. Third-row seating includes a self-leveling suspension feature, plus rear climate controls. Otherwise, dual-zone climate control is standard, while a four-zone climate control system is optional.Interior materials used in the BMW X5 lease are especially distinctive. The standard upholstery on the 3.0si is a leatherette, while the 4.8i gets Nevada leather. Dark Burl Walnut, Light Poplar Wood, and Dark Bamboo trims are available.A new revised version of the standard dynamic stability control (DSC) now includes brake fade compensation, brake stand-by, and brake drying, to help increase overall brake safety in a wide range of conditions, plus the Start-off Assistant, which helps keep the vehicle from rolling backward when starting from a stop and facing uphill. Hill descent control, to help modulate speed while making steep descents off-road or on slippery surfaces, and a trailer stabilization program are also included.Besides DSC, the BMW X5 lease comes with a wide range of safety features including a rollover sensor that interfaces with the vehicle's air bag system. Front seat-mounted side air bags and a head-protection system for all outboard occupants are also standard. Both BMW X5 lease models come with a run-flat tire system, with which the vehicle can be driven up to 90 miles at up 50 mph when the tire loses its inflation.Climate control, navigation, and entertainment functions, among others, are accessed through the iDrive controller, which now has six programmable memory keys for frequently used functions.Both the 3.0si and 4.8i models come very well equipped, yet they have expansive option lists that bring standout high-tech and luxury features, such as Active Ventilated Seats, heated rear seats, park distance control, a head-up display, and a rear-seat entertainment system. An available Sport Package includes Sport seats, special trim, a sport steering wheel, active roll stabilization, and electronic damping control.