Review: BMW packs the X5 SUV with impressive high-tech options and signature engine

Not only do they offer cutting-edge technology, but they integrate it in a way that's intuitive and pleasant to use.The X5 is the latest redesigned BMW to get the full suite of tech goodies, elevating the big Bimmer from a middling performer to one of the more exciting options in the class. If you can get by without a third row of seats — available in rivals like the Audi Q7, Volvo XC90 and Lexus RX — the X5 is a fantastic option. The Audi Q7 and Volvo XC90 offer a lot of tech for similar prices, but do so with seven usable seats.BMW originally planned to offer a third row of seats for the X5 in December, then pushed it back to February. As of March 1, the option is still not available.Finally, it's great that BMW offers everything that you could ever need on the X5. And even though it did have the upgraded stereo, BMW offers an even more expensive and higher-tier "diamond" stereo.That weakens the value component of the X5, as it'd be hard to option one in a way that didn't make you feel like you were missing out.We'll try anyway.