3rd row comments from those who got it?

[Chigger]

I came from a Q7 because the wife doesn't like full size SUV (feels like driving a bus). She prefers the X5 over Q7.

And yes, the 3rd row is for my kids and their friends only.

[Yaw]

Think of it as "we got room, just hop in the hatch" but with actual seats, seat belts and air vents. It adds quite a bit to the utility of the X5 and love the "wow, you got seats back there" surprised comments. Zero issues packing in 7 kids/adults for short and medium trips. For what we use it for it is absolutely fantastic. If you need the third row full time there are other vehicles that do a better job at this.

[Thrumcap]

It looks like the 2019 x5 is going to be bigger so hopefully it adds some space to make the third row more legit.

[Chadmatic]

Originally Posted by Thrumcap

It looks like the 2019 x5 is going to be bigger so hopefully it adds some space to make the third row more legit.

Yes, they are calling it the X7.

[ikheetleon]

Used it once, rather had the storage space and DHP.

[Thrumcap]

Originally Posted by Chadmatic

Yes, they are calling it the X7.

Spy photos of x5 show it is bigger. Also doesn’t look nearly as fugly as X7.

[TheLastF15]

I got it, never used it, keep it folded until the day I need it.

[sj22]

I use it a few times a month. Since row 2 has a carseat, sometimes we get unexpected guests and its fine for a short drive (maybe max an hour or so). If first and second row move their seats forward, third row has just enough space to be able to sit (I have sat in row 3 as a 6 ft 200lb adult). Obviously, no space to move once you sit. I wouldn't put anyone over age 20 in there, usually either my wife or me end up there.

Absolutely cannot use it for daily use, but its fine for what it is (and what I bought it for). Since our kid is still small, I don't think I would prefer wife driving a separate car with guests anyways.

[1norseman]

3rd row came with my CPO X5, but not something I was looking for.

Last use of third row, was a trip before Xmas with two 8yr olds, they were hesitant, didn't want to sit all the way in the back etc.
But then once on our way, an hr+ ride each way was not a problem at all.

Gave them blankets, and set up Wi-Fi so they could use their not activated old iphones to play games and/or watch youtube...
We hardly heard from them during the whole trip.
The airbag rear suspension and big engine, made it a pleasant drive with 4 adults and 2 kids..

But I would not recommend it for adults, unless in a pinch.

Also, if you have the plastic floor liner in the back, you have to remove it. Same with the retractable cargo cover.
Something to consider, before you leave home, when picking people up...

Seat belts for third row, are somewhat in the way when third row is folded down (even when held to the side by the plastic "holders"), and can't easily be removed. (I have had GMC Yukons where the lower part could be unbuckled, and retracted and stashed towards the ceiling, but doesn't look easily done here?)

Storage is also very limited with third row. Not much space left behind seats, when in use.
IMHO; If you need a third row for frequent use, you might want to look for a bigger vehicle...

[Bt12]

We bought it but don’t use it at all...cool to have

[gt0279a]

3rd row was a must with small kids as with carpool, baseball practice, etc. we have had to haul 6-7 around several times.

Ease of getting in and out is pretty average. Wish they had the push button folding like a Ford explorer.

Worst part is if the 3rd row is folded down, you have to:
1 - move second row forward all the way or use the handle to put the 2nd row in egress position
2- Do step 1 again for other side
3- Open tailgate
4- Bend over and press latch up while picking 3rd row seat up and moving it into position or skip step 3 and dive into car to press latch from second row
5- Do it again for other seat
6 - Adjust headrests
7- Return 2nd row into position

My 11 year old is already a tight fit in the back and you can't really move the 2nd row up much with adults or car seats in them.

BUT, still 1000% better than driving a van or giant suv IMO

I did not buy the BMW cargo mat, but there is a 3rd party one that folds:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00SGGT8H6