nice write-up!! and thanks for the vid...

mileage sucks on the 4.8 which is why i opted for the 3.0si..

tailgate not that bad although it would be nice if you can control it from the key fob...

let's hope there aren't any issues with the second year production...

can't wait for mine...should be a few weeks more!!

don't minivans have auto-closing side doors with a sensor that would stop/re-open it if it detects something in the way? Why not the same concept here? Half-a$$ing it again?

Nice Write-up, enjoy your new ride!!!

a bit of a long shot this, but have you tried holding the lock button for 2-3 seconds to see if it activates the auto-close? Holding the lock button (in Europe at least) closes the windows and sunroof if they are open.

I tried that in my US model last night. It did not activate auto-close. Other posts have said that this auto-close functionality has been disabled in the US.

can you close the auto tailgate with the button on the center console???

No, that doesn't work either. It's interesting that when you press the button on the center console with the auto tailgate open, that you hear a little click inside the tailgate but nothing happens...

They do - at least my Honda Odyssey 05+ Touring does that... I agree, this is a "partial" solution IMHO...

Well, this has to do with liability, for them to enable it, it would only be a simple software update, but they dont want to take ANY chances. I seriously done alot of research for windows up function years back and BMW would not do it eventhough its available in Europe.
And to be honest, I know AUDI has the same thing AND... if you activate the auto close and then hold the tailgate not letting it to close, the autoclose will stop and open it back up.. (I am sure BMW has that too) The safety is there.. its a liability problem and want it or not, its not available from the dealer...
No one is stopping you from wiring up the button to some kind of a remote, but then again if you do that you cant hold anyone responsible.

and you are trying this in park too? what is the point of a button on the tailgate.... i don't see how that's any more convenient than just closing it with your hand.

i'm now wondering if i should NOT have ordered this feature....