2010 BMW X5 M

2010 X5 M Photos
The BMW X5 calling card is not off-road capability or cargo capacity. It's driving dynamics. This sport-utility isn't as refined or holistic as BMW's best sedans, but the comparison is generally on the mark. Think of the X5 as a 5 Series wagon with more headroom and a bit more cargo space.

For 2010, the high-performance BMW X5 M joins the lineup. The X5 M uses a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 that makes a whopping 555 horsepower. X5 M comes standard with BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system, a stiffer suspension, and sport seats. Exterior cues indicate its performance potential.

In addition to three gasoline-powered models, BMW offers a diesel-powered model, the X5 xDrive35d, which is as clean as any of its gasoline counterparts. The diesel model improves mileage nearly 25 percent compared to the X5 xDrive30i with its gasoline-powered six-cylinder, yet the diesel accelerates faster and can tow more.

The BMW X5 emphasizes the sport half of the sport-utility equation, even with the diesel engine. While the current model offers more utility than ever, the X5 comes up short in cargo-passenger flexibility compared to many luxury SUVs. As opposed to hauling acres of equipment and gear, the X5 provides the equipment enthusiast drivers expect when they want to enjoy the art of driving as much as they're able. Just plan to travel fairly light.

All four BMW X5 engines deliver plenty of usable torque for good acceleration, and the X5 M engine is a beast. The gasoline engines feature turbine-like smoothness. The inline six-cylinder in the xDrive30i delivers the kind of response we expect in a sports sedan, and it shouldn't leave owners pining for the V8s. The 4.8-liter V8 in the xDrive48i simply offers more power for passing and towing. The X5 M version is stunningly fast. No matter what powertrain you choose, you won't be disappointed.

The X5 is styled in obvious BMW fashion, only taller, with traditional Bimmer cues like the twin-kidney grille and dual-beam headlight clusters. Inside, it offers plenty of room for five, with a nice, rich finish and nearly all the bells and whistles one expects in a high-line luxury sedan. The back seat is more than roomy enough for two adults, three in a pinch, and there's enough cargo space in back for a two-day family outing. The X5 can expand to seven-passenger capacity with an optional third-row seat, but that third seat won't look particularly inviting to anyone asked to ride in it, and it wipes out the cargo space.

The X5 is not a traditional SUV. BMW shuns the SUV tag entirely, describing the X5 with it own copyrighted label: Sport Activity Vehicle, or SAV. With all seats lowered for maximum cargo capacity, it offers less space than do most competitors, from Acura to Volvo. The gas-powered models aren't class leaders in fuel economy. And sport in the X5 context does not mean off-road capability. While the X5 has some mild off-road prowess, the xDrive all-wheel-drive system was developed for slippery roads and …
Full Review

The BMW X5 calling card is not off-road capability or cargo capacity. It's driving dynamics. This sport-utility isn't as refined or holistic as BMW's best sedans, but the comparison is generally on the mark. Think of the X5 as a 5 Series wagon with more headroom and a bit more cargo space.

For 2010, the high-performance BMW X5 M joins the lineup. The X5 M uses a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 that makes a whopping 555 horsepower. X5 M comes standard with BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system, a stiffer suspension, and sport seats. Exterior cues indicate its performance potential.

In addition to three gasoline-powered models, BMW offers a diesel-powered model, the X5 xDrive35d, which is as clean as any of its gasoline counterparts. The diesel model improves mileage nearly 25 percent compared to the X5 xDrive30i with its gasoline-powered six-cylinder, yet the diesel accelerates faster and can tow more.

The BMW X5 emphasizes the sport half of the sport-utility equation, even with the diesel engine. While the current model offers more utility than ever, the X5 comes up short in cargo-passenger flexibility compared to many luxury SUVs. As opposed to hauling acres of equipment and gear, the X5 provides the equipment enthusiast drivers expect when they want to enjoy the art of driving as much as they're able. Just plan to travel fairly light.

All four BMW X5 engines deliver plenty of usable torque for good acceleration, and the X5 M engine is a beast. The gasoline engines feature turbine-like smoothness. The inline six-cylinder in the xDrive30i delivers the kind of response we expect in a sports sedan, and it shouldn't leave owners pining for the V8s. The 4.8-liter V8 in the xDrive48i simply offers more power for passing and towing. The X5 M version is stunningly fast. No matter what powertrain you choose, you won't be disappointed.

The X5 is styled in obvious BMW fashion, only taller, with traditional Bimmer cues like the twin-kidney grille and dual-beam headlight clusters. Inside, it offers plenty of room for five, with a nice, rich finish and nearly all the bells and whistles one expects in a high-line luxury sedan. The back seat is more than roomy enough for two adults, three in a pinch, and there's enough cargo space in back for a two-day family outing. The X5 can expand to seven-passenger capacity with an optional third-row seat, but that third seat won't look particularly inviting to anyone asked to ride in it, and it wipes out the cargo space.

The X5 is not a traditional SUV. BMW shuns the SUV tag entirely, describing the X5 with it own copyrighted label: Sport Activity Vehicle, or SAV. With all seats lowered for maximum cargo capacity, it offers less space than do most competitors, from Acura to Volvo. The gas-powered models aren't class leaders in fuel economy. And sport in the X5 context does not mean off-road capability. While the X5 has some mild off-road prowess, the xDrive all-wheel-drive system was developed for slippery roads and …
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Retail Price

$85,500 - $85,500 MSRP / Window Sticker Price
Engine 4.4L V-8
MPG Up to 12 city / 17 highway
Seating 5 Passengers
Transmission 6-spd w/OD
Power 555 @ 6000 rpm
Drivetrain all wheel
Curb Weight 5,247 lbs
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