Launched in 1999, the X5 is BMW's flagship mid-size SUV, or as BMW calls it, an SAV, or Sport Activity Vehicle. From the very beginning, BMW worked hard to make sure that sporty driving dynamics and a high level of responsiveness were programmed into the X5. This means the X5 features not only a great deal of utility, but with BMW's standard all-wheel drive system, a sure-footed nature in a variety of terrains. Add to that BMW's trademarked build quality and luxury, the X5 is a versatile vehicle that's well-placed at the top of its class. Three trims are available, starting with the xDrive35i and topping out with the xDrive50i. A high-performance X5 M model is also available.
The 3.0L inline 6-cylinder turbocharged engine in the xDrive35i makes 300 horsepower. xDrive50i versions are fitted with an all-aluminum twin-turbo 4.4L V8 with variable valve timing and direct injection. It features what BMW calls a "reverse flow" setup, with its twin turbochargers situated within the valley between the cylinders. It makes 400 horsepower and 450 ft-lb of torque. Powering the xDrive35d is a 265-hp 3.0L inline-6 diesel engine. The Variable TwinPower Turbo engine also produces 425 ft-lb of torque and delivers an EPA estimated 26 mpg on the highway. At the very top of the range is the intense X5 M, featuring 555 horsepower from a tuned version of the xDrive50i's 4.4L V8.
Both the xDrive35i and the xDrive50i use an 8-speed automatic transmission, first introduced in the 5-series Grand Turismo. Brake energy regeneration is also used on both gasoline engines, which uncouples the alternator from the accessory drive system, allowing the battery to only be charged during coasting or braking. This, BMW says, results in up to 2 percent fuel economy boost. The X5 M features a 6-speed automatic as the only transmission option.
Standard safety features include several airbags--driver's and passenger's front and side units as well as head airbags for the first- and second-row seats. In addition, BMW offers Dynamic Stability Control, Dynamic Traction Control, Dynamic Brake Control, Hill Descent Control and Dynamic Cruise Control. Active Cruise Control and Lane Departure Warning systems are also available. There's also a rearview camera that can provide a 360-degree exterior view, a Heads-Up Display that projects onto the windshield in the driver's field of view and a Park Distance Control system that alerts the driver of obstacles behind the vehicle while parking.
The xDrive35i is available in three trim levels, with the base model including automatic xenon adaptive headlamps, rain sensors, HD radio, fog lights, automatic climate control, cruise control, 18-inch wheels and an anti-theft system all as standard equipment. Premium adds 19-inch wheels, iPod integration, tinted glass, leather seats and the availability of a Convenience Package, Active Ventilated Seat Package, Cold Weather Package and Technology Package. The top of the line Sport Activity adds 20-inch wheels, sport seats, performance tires, BMW's Adaptive Drive System and special darkened trim.
BMW Luxury And Build Quality
Standard All-wheel Drive
New, More Powerful Engines
The BMW X5 returns for 2013 with minimal updates
BMW's X5 offers seating for seven with high-tech on- and off-road capabilities. And with great styling as well as a host of refinements throughout its development, the package is hard to ignore. Although it ranks among the more expensive SUVs in its class, it's a strong competitor, offering a wide range of options not found on the Acura MDX, Lexus RX 350 or Mercedes M-Class.
