Vehicle: 2010 BMW X5 M with Executive Package
Price as tested: CDN$103400

Performance: Unlike all the previous BMW M cars have gone before, this Bavarian company’s 1st ever M badged SUVs are powered by forced induction engine. As we have witnessed on this subject of test drive. The X5 M is only powered by a 5.5 liter DOHC 32-valve V8 with dual turbochargers. What this engine is based on the 5.0 liter twin turbo engine already in X6 XDrive 50i but with a twist. Along with 555 ponies and 500 lb/ft of torque to move this heavy 2935lb of beast around, it also comes standard with a 6-speed manumatic gearbox. Whenever the gearbox lever is easy to figure out is another story. But this M-tuned manumatic gearbox has matched this powertrain exceptionally well. The low gears are good enough for peppy launch without have to rely too much on the boost itself. Which means this V8 twin-turbo doesn’t have the annoying turbo lag as its lesser I-6 twin-turbo silibings. The turbos spool up quickly and effectively, which is radically different than the Z4 we just drove earlier this year. Its also relatively refined and smooth, which is expect from a BMW V8 nature. The middle and upper range are eager to rev thanks to Valvetronic and Double VANOS in the drivetrain.

Handling: BMW is already well-known for the chassis rigidty and stiffness, so no one can doubt about that. But what makes the X5 M interesting is how flat the cornering ability when pushed through hard into any corners. The X-Drive AWD and M Dynamic Mode in DSC have to take credit as those provide confidence when driven hard. The steering is sharp and precise, with right amount of weight. The body rolls are very well-controlled consider how tall an X5 is. What is really disappointing is the harsh ride driven by those large 20″ wheels. All the pavement’s roughness and patholes just translate directly into the cabin. The ride has left a lot to be desired consider how much BMW was talking about the effectiveness of EDC, or Electronic Damper Control, on providing desired ride and handling compromise. On the other hand, the M Drive provides custom setting for different drivers. But, unfortunately, its hard for us to choose the right combination especially when it comes to balance a comfortable ride and sharp handling.

Brakes: With large 4-wheel discs and standard ABS, X5 M stops accordingly even with its hefty weight. The stopping distance is relatively short while pedal provides decent enough feel. The pedal actually has some lives to it. ABS also acts accordingly until the driver needs it.

Interior: The rest of the interior is pretty much an X5, except for those superb M sports seats and head-up display. The M leather steering provides excellent grip. Due to the poor sightline, X5′s back-up camera with top view is a godsent. Combined with rear parking sensors, its sightline is actually something I can live with.

Conclusion: BMW Motorsport Division’s 1st foray into the SUV is a good one. This X5 M provides all the merits one expects from both BMW and M Division. Excellent performance, forgiving driving dynamics and offer lots of features in return. Although it still doesn’t have the handling and ride balance as its arch-rival, Porsche Cayenne Turbo. It remains a good first effort, nonetheless.

OVERALL VERDICT FOR 2010 BMW X5 M
=====================================
Performance: 5/5
Handling and ride/fun-to-drive: 4.5/5
Interior/ergonomics/user-friendliness: 4/5
Fit-and-finish/build quality: 4/5
Cargo/accessibility/layout: 3/5
Value-for-money: 4/5

Overall rating: 4/5