As noted earlier it is working as it is intended to work in the US, presumably for safety. The ability to close from the center console or key fob is disabled in the US. I believe the feature is enabled in other countries. It does not seem to matter to BMW what other SUVs allow (or their customers want......)....a fully functional auto close feature!

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2008 4.8i Mineral Green Metallic Sports Package, Technology Package, Cold Weather Package, Rear Climate Package, Premium Package, Premium Sound with iPod adaptor & Sirius Radio, Auto Tailgate, Head up display