I ordered my X5 with the 3rd row, thinking it would be useful for my 3 kids (6,4 & newborn at time) + friends. First time I put my two oldest in the 3rd row, they hated it. Even for young kids, it's a bit tight and claustrophobic. We haven't used it since.

My kids, now 8,6,3, are very comfortable sitting in the back seat. We have a carseat and booster on the sides, and put our oldest in the middle. Much more comfortable than a 5 series sedan IMO.

I'm about the order a new X5 and will be skipping the 3rd row this time.

Honestly i'd get the 3rd row even if i don't plan on putting humans back there. I love the air leveling suspension :)

I have the third row option and have since 2007 and I can say it is very useful. My kids and nephews love the third row because they feel like they are ridding in the back of the car away from the parents. Granted they ages were 3,5,7 but they all fight to see who gets to ride in the back when Uncle V is driving. We have done road trips where I put the 40% split down and one kid sits in the thirdrow and the other in the second row. Actually that is perfect because there is no fighting between the two.

i agree jdd... certainly helps with towing my race car and trailer. ;)

i must be the only one who bought 3rd row equipped X5 for trailering to track days, kids? whats that?? :)

must be a really heavy trailer.:nanana: