BMW X5 Overview

The X5 was a pioneer in the luxury SUV market and makes a good choice for those who need SUV utility while retaining sport sedan-like handling. The all-wheel drive X5 comes in 5 trim levels and with 3 engine choices. The xDrive35i, xDrive35i Premium and xDrive35i Sport Activity come with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder engine making 300 hp. The xDrive50i uses a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 with 400 hp. Both engines are mated to 8-speed manual transmissions. The clean-diesel xDrive35d uses a 3.0-liter turbodiesel inline 6-cylinder with 265 hp, mated to a 6-speed automatic.

Inside, the X5 seats 5, or 7 with the optional third-row seat. Standard features include 18-inch wheels, foglights, adaptive xenon headlights and a 12-speaker sound system with HD radio. Upper-level trims add a sunroof, 19 or 20-inch wheels, leather interior, an optional navigation system, a sport suspension and a premium 16-speaker stereo system with iPod and USB inputs. Anti-lock disc brakes with a braking drying feature, front-side and side-curtain airbags for the first 2 rows, and stability and traction control systems are standard. The X5 performed admirably in crash testing.