Loosely based on the extraordinarily popular 5 series BMW sedan line, the X5 has become one of the premier sports utility vehicles on the road today. The BMW X5 has become one of the highest selling SUV models in the world, challenging such manufacturing giants as Ford and GM in an industry segment that has previously been dominated by American-made vehicles. The 2010 BMW X5 has something to offer that the American companies can't: Fuel economy.

Powered by the award-winning 3.0 liter inline-6 cylinder engine found in the BMW 3 series cars, the X5 has the ability to carry a considerable load of people and cargo. With 260 horsepower, this naturally-aspirated 3.0 liter features a strong power band and flat torque curve to help passing ability. While the X5 in base trim isn't a speed demon, most owners can't complain about fuel economy that's very rarely seen in the SUV segment: A very respectable 15 mpg city, 21 mpg highway.

For X5 owners who want a little bit more kick, look no further than the 3.0 liter turbo diesel, also an inline-6 cylinder engine. This is a variant of the engine found in the BMW 335d, with one major exception: This engine features 425 foot-pounds of torque, giving it an exceptional ability to tow large items such as boats and trailers with ease. While fuel economy under tow certainly suffers, at lighter vehicle weights you can expect an astounding 19 mpg city, 26 mpg highway.

For those who want a little bit more from their SUV, the X5 is available with a 4.8 liter V8. This magnificent normally-aspirated V8 pushes out 350 horsepower with 350 foot-pounds of torque. While this will give the driver excellent passing and towing ability, look for fuel economy to suffer: Expect 14 city, 19 highway.

Ronnie Tanner is a contributing writer at SWEngines.com. He writes about BMW X5 Engine and other industry specific topics.