that's correct. But the key fob needs to be in, too.

Should have also mentioned the transmission...
 

I previously drove a Honda Pilot and it continuously shifted. Big complaint among owners. The X5 is completely smooth, no jerkyness. Any shifting is transparent and the only sign of it is in the RPM gauge.

I think this may be retained accessory power, but will shut-off automatically after a certain time?

No. It's like turning the key to "ON" but not "start".

Thanks.

Are you sure there is no dipstick at the back of the engine. When I first got my '06 750Li the common complaint on the 7 message board was that there was no dipstick, only iDrive. However there is a dipstick on the 7 and I would assume there is also one on the X5. Look at the very back of the engine.

Page 223 of the owner's manual only shows idrive as a method of checking oil level.

Maybe the palm prints he mentioned have an impact?

I've driven a lot of cars, and when I think of great seats BMW's Comfort Seats come to mind. Since BMW seems intent upon broadening the appeal of its vehicles, they should do more to market this feature.

My observations after 8 days (4 driving days away on business)
-Quite cabin
-Very fast and smooth for a large vehicle
-Sport package a must, the handling is great with the sport on
-Rear camera is on way to long after shifting to drive
-Bluetooth is great and I think it sound better than my Dad's M5, although I am sure it is the same system
-There is no dipstick I am sure this will be common in all BMWs shortly
-It feels much smaller when you are driving it than the e53 did

I will post pics in a new thread of the clear bra and huber tint when the weather clears up and I can wash it

How can it feel smaller if its 7.5 inches longer and 2.5 inches wider?