2012 BMW X5

The 2012 BMW X5 falls in the middle of the list of luxury midsize SUVs. Its engine is powerful and its handling is sporty for its size. What hindered it to reach the top is the price and the cabin that seems to lack space despite its larger size.

Car shoppers do not seem to find a great package in the X5 despite its great attributes. Budget conscious families may go home with another SUV from the same class.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: SUV Base Price: $47,500.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 22.5 gallons (85L) MPG: 16 city / 23 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 191.2 in. (485.6 cm) Wheel Base: 115.5 in. (293.3 cm)
Height: 69.9 in. (177.5 cm) Width: 76.1 in. (193.2 cm)
Curb Weight: 4960 lbs (2249 kg) Ground Clearance: 8.7 in. (22 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 23.2 cu ft Maximum Seating: 7 people
Performance
Engine: 3.0L Inline6 TwinTurbo DOHC Compression Ratio: 10.2: 1
Horsepower: 300 HP Max RPM: 5800-6250 RPM
Torque: 300 lb-ft @ 1300-5000 rpm Transmission: 8-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: 6.4 seconds 1/4 Mile: NA
Max Towing Capacity: 6000 lbs (2721 kgs) Maximum Speed: 130 mph (209 km/h)
Available Trims & Engine
Option:xDrive35i Premium MSRP: $55,200; MPG: 16 city / 23 hwy
Option:xDrive35d Diesel MSRP: $56,700; MPG: 19 city / 26 hwy
Option:xDrive35i Sport Activity MSRP: $57,700; MPG: 16 city / 23 hwy
Option:xDrive50i 4.4L V8 MSRP: $64,200; MPG: 14 city / 20 hwy

Engine

There are three engines available for the X5. First is the inline-six twin-turbo 3.0 liter engine that delivers 300 horsepower and 300 lbs/ft of torque. Next is the inline-six twin-turbo 3.0 liter diesel engine that delivers 265 horsepower and 425 lbs/ft of torque. The third is the-top-of-the-line V8 4.4 liter engine that delivers 400 horsepower and 450lbs/ft of torque.

Gas powered engines are paired with an automatic 8-speed transmission with manual mode and the diesel engine is paired with an automatic 6-speed transmission with manual mode.

Performance

Test drivers were overwhelmed with the sportiness that the BMW X5 has. All the engines are capable for hauling, whether you are in the city or on the highways. It is worth mentioning that even though the diesel engine loses some horses, its increase in torque compensates for the loss. And it is worth noting that the diesel engine does not sacrifice the excellent driving capabilities for which BMWs are known.

Exterior

The 2012 X5 looks muscular. It bears the trademark BMW grille and the headlights that are rather shaped like melancholic eyes. The hood and the front layout are generous with lines which make it look very modern.

The side panels are slightly curved but are devoid of lines, giving the X5 a smooth and polished look. The X5 might trick you into thinking that it is not sporty because of all the bulk, but wait until you are behind the wheel.

Interior

The 2012 X5 lives up to our expectation when it comes to BMW quality. However, there are complaints about the second and third rows. The third row was probably designed only for children because adults, especially the tall ones, find it cramped.

The second row is mounted too low on the ground. The only row that is generous in space is the front row. The iDrive system seems to be too advanced and cumbersome for most drivers.

Safety

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety is yet to complete crash tests for the X5. Nonetheless, it receives a “good” score in rear, side and front crash tests. There are no details about the roof strength tests. The federal government, on the other hand, gave the X5 a rollover score of 4 out of 5 stars.

Reliability

The X5 comes with the standard 4-year warranty and a limited corrosion protection warranty that lasts for 12 years. The reliability rating for the X5 is average in its class.

Pros

All X5 models come as all-wheel drive. The handling is exceptional for its size, and is probably the sportiest in its class. The X5 has a well-appointed interior that is made of quality materials. The seats are luxurious. The engines are capable. The diesel engine has improved fuel efficiency without sacrificing performance.

Cons

The cabin is smaller than it looks. The iDrive system is complicated.

The 2012 BMW X5 an excellent SUV but because it is costly, a family might go home with another SUV from the same class.

Competition

There are other vehicles that are being compared to the X5, this includes that Audi Q7 (MSRP $51,450; 17 city / 25 hwy), the Cadillac SRX (MSRP $49,585; 16 city / 23 hwy), and the Infiniti JX35 (MSRP $42,050; 17 city / 23 hwy).

Overall Rating
77 out of 100

What others say:

“BMW is well-known for building premium luxury vehicles, and the X5 is no exception. Ride comfort, materials, and seatings space are all part of the X5’s design.”Car Connection

“Outstanding balance and grip make the X5 feel more like a sedan than an SUV. There’s minimal body lean in turns. Braking is strong, with good pedal feel. X5 M has sharper moves all around.”Consumer Guide

“The X5 has a stiff and choppy ride, particularly low speeds. Handling is capable and secure, and the steering has good feedback.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“With a sophisticated suspension, excellent braking, communicative steering and at least 300 horsepower, the 2012 BMW X5 – in any of its iterations…”KBB

“The 2012 BMW X5 remains a top choice among luxury crossover SUVs thanks to its athletic performance and refined interior…Athletic handling; potent and efficient engines; luxurious and comfortable interior; huge list of features; steadfast high-speed stability.”Edmunds

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