Our 2008 BMW X5 4.8i is equipped with the optional ($1,700) rear entertainment system. The location of the 8-inch screen is unusual – it's mounted between the front seats. The system is easy to use, and it sounds pretty fantastic. There are two power points, two headphone jacks (not wireless), a remote and a set of RCA input jacks...
The only significant downside I can think of is that the screen is potentially more prone to be scratched or damaged due to its location â my thoughts went towards errant little feet or loaded cargo. When not in use, the screen does rotate 180 degrees to face the front, at least, offering some measure of protection.
Brent Romans, Senior Automotive Editor @ 9,867 miles
prndlol says:
09:36 AM, 06/ 2/08
I would expect the screen to pivot and slide into the front armrest. As it is, it doesn't look much more sophisticated than the set-up in the old Malibu.
http://images.motortrend.com/roadtests/oneyear/112_0606_lt_07z+2005_chevrolet_malibu_maxx_LT+flip_out_DVD_player.jpg
ewilfong says:
10:06 AM, 06/ 2/08
I've never used a rear-seat entertainment system, but I imagine placing the screen closer to eye level makes viewing a bit easier for kids.
ahightower says:
10:25 AM, 06/ 2/08
I like that it doesn't block the rear view mirror down there, but shouldn't it be high enough for those hypothetical third row passengers to see in this alleged 7-seater?
brn says:
11:46 AM, 06/ 2/08
prndlol, looking at your link, I like the Malibu setup quite a bit better. The screen is higher and it folds away nicely.
bimmerjay says:
12:53 PM, 06/ 2/08
The X5 has a panoramic moonroof that extends over the 2nd row so the screen can't be ceiling-mounted. The only other feasible location would be two screens in the front head restraints.
desmolicious says:
01:44 PM, 06/ 2/08
The are some really significant downsides to this design, having used my brother's X5 extensively..
basically almost all the controls are at your feet level. If anyone is sitting back there, your feet and legs are in the way and you cannot see what you are doing. It is really hard to load a disc by sight, basically it is all by feel.
A truly horrible after thought of a design. And this is coming from a BMW owner and fan!
altimadude00 says:
04:25 PM, 06/ 2/08
Still have Mad Max on your minds eh?
chavis10 says:
08:13 AM, 06/ 3/08
Caddy SRX has a similar system from Pioneer