The BMW X5 defines an expanding group of big, powerful SUVs that shine for their on-pavement agility and responsive acceleration, with an emphasis on safety, comfort and luxury appointments. It features BMW's xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive system, and offers optional third-row seating that increases capacity to seven passengers.

The X5 is available in five trim levels: xDrive35i, xDrive35i Premium, xDrive35i Sport Activity, xDrive35d and xDrive50i. The xDrive35i variants get a single-turbo 300-hp 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine, while the xDrive50i boasts a 400-hp 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8; both engines are mated to an eight-speed Sport automatic transmission with manual shift mode. The xDrive35d is powered by a 265-hp 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline six-cylinder diesel engine, paired with six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode. Trim-dependent standard equipment includes: a Panorama glass moonroof, 18-, 19- and 20-inch aluminum wheels, run-flat tires, bi-xenon adaptive headlamps, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, leather upholstery and HD radio. Heated rear seats, satellite radio and a voice-activated hard drive-based navigation system, including 12 gigabytes of dedicated media storage and DVD video capability, are among the available options. Safety features on every X5 include anti-lock disc brakes, Dynamic Stability Control with traction control and rollover sensor, active anti-whiplash front head restraints and a tire pressure monitor, along with front side-impact airbags and overhead curtain airbags for all rows. New for 2012, Park Distance Control and BMW Assist with Bluetooth are now standard on all trims. Additional technologies such as Active Cruise Control with Stop and Go, Automatic High Beams, Head-up Display and a Lane Departure Warning system, are also offered.

After a refresh last year, the BMW X5 carries over with minimal changes for 2012. New standard equipment for all trim levels includes roof rails, a power tailgate and a USB port, while all but the xDrive35i also get auto-dimming mirrors and heated front seats. Additionally, the navigation system is now standard on the xDrive50i.