Video: 2010 BMW X5 M

Now, you may expect impressive performance from a vehicle that makes 555 horsepower, but the level of comfort this vehicle offers may surprise you. Up until now, BMW's M division has just made high performance version of the company's cars, but along with the new X6 M and the X5 M here, these mark the first crossovers that the M group has taken on, and they're also the first all-wheel drive models from the division. Now, this model is powered by a twin turbo charged V8 engine that makes that 555 horsepower I mentioned, and that's enough power to propel this two-and-a-half ton vehicle from zero to 60 in 4.5 seconds, which is incredibly quick. Now, fuel economy is not so great as you might expect. It's rated at 12 miles per gallon in the city and 17 on the highway. But because this is a crossover and not a car, it's not subject to any gas guzzler taxes. In addition to the performance modifications under the hood, the X5 M also gets exterior styling modifications like this more aggressive front end with a restyled lower bumper, 20 inch wheels, and quad exhaust tips. One of my chief complaints with the regular X5s is that its handling feels a little watered down compared to the BMW norm, but in M form that's definitely been addressed, because when you throw this thing into a corner it handles great, and it also offers a comfortable driving experience when you're just cruising along. It really has that BMW characteristic of a balance between comfort and handling that you've come to expect in their cars, transferred over to a crossover. Now, in keeping with the comfort theme, the seats aren't as highly bolstered as you might expect from a car wearing an M badge. They're not super restrictive, and they're definitely focused on comfort overall. Otherwise the interior is mostly the same as the regular X5. You do get some different gauges, some different trim treatment, but otherwise it's much the same. The back seat of the X5 M is actually pretty roomy for adult passengers. So you don't have the greatest thigh support if you're taller because your knees are a little elevated. The backseat is not adjustable either. It doesn't slide or recline, but you do get to enjoy a standard panoramic moonroof, which is just huge. The X5 has an interesting liftgate tailgate combination. And when you open it up, there's 36 cubic feet of cargo space, which is roomy enough for a couple of golf bags and a medium sized suitcase. They fit pretty easily. If you need even more space, you can fold down the back seat and then you have 75 cubic feet of space, but it's worth noting that when it comes time to put up the larger of the two split folding backrests, it's pretty heavy. As you might expect. The X5 M isn't cheap. This model with options is around $92,000, but it's one of the most fun to drive SUV's that I've been in. And it also offers a level of comfort that doesn't come every day in this class, too. So it really is that optimal blend that it's tough to find elsewhere. <v Narrator>For more car-related news, go to cars.com or our blog kickingtires.net.