BMW X5 is one of the best mid-size luxury SUVs on the market. This car boasts outstanding performance and exceptional handling. It is also very luxurious with high-end technological features. Besides, it also has a class-leading infotainment system and can seat up to seven passengers.
Despite having several fantastic features, it is important to understand both the pros and cons of the BMW X5 before investing in it. We have featured everything that you need to know about the BMW X5 so that you can make an informed decision.
History of the BMW X5
BMW X5 is a mid-size luxury crossover SUV manufactured by BMW. This car made its debut in 1999 as the E53 model. Furthermore, it was BMW’s first SUV and it was equipped with an all-wheel-drive system. Besides, the first-generation model has the option of either picking a manual or automatic gearbox.
Currently, the BMW X5 is in its 5th generation. The first generation was made between 2000 and 2006, the second generation between 2007 and 2013, the third generation between 2014 and 2018, and the fourth and current generation started in 2019 to the present.
Features of the BMW X5
Appearance
BMW X5 is a nice-looking car with classy features that separate it from mainstream SUVs. Thanks to features such as a large kidney grille, panoramic glass sunroof, large alloy wheels with BMW branding, and adaptive LED headlights. Despite looking elegant, the Audi Q7 and Porsche Cayenne have a more agile look than the X5.
In terms of interior design and finish, the BMW X5 is up there with the best. Nonetheless, it is not better than the Mercedes GLE, Audi RS Q8, or Genesis GV80. These come with a slightly more sophisticated interior than the X5. Nonetheless, it has the best infotainment system and only the GLE has more advanced technology.
The BMW X5 comes with first, second, and third row seats. The first and second-row seats are very comfortable and will accommodate adults without any issue. However, the optional third-row seat is quite cramped and only suitable for kids.
The interior of the X5 is top-notch with lots of luxurious features. Some of these features include heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, power-adjustable front seats with memory, a leather dashboard, a power rear liftgate, and much more.
Performance
BMW is popular for offering the ultimate driving experience. The BMW X5 is a true testament to this saying. The car is one of the best performings in its class. It is more powerful than the base Mercedes-Benz GLE, Volvo XC90, and Genesis GV80.
The BMW X5 has three different powertrains; sDrive40i/xDrive40i, xDrive45e, and M50i. The base models are the sDrive40i, which stands for a rear-wheel-drive system, and xDrive40i, which stands for an all-wheel-drive system. The xDrive45e is a plug-in hybrid, while the M50i is the performance variant.
The base models produce a maximum of 335 hp and 331 lb-ft of torque. They can accelerate from 0 to 60 in 4.8 seconds and have a top speed of 151 mph. On the other hand, the plug-in hybrid model delivers a maximum of 389 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque. It can move from 0 to 60 in 4.7 seconds and has a top speed of 146 mph.
While the BMW X5 M50i, which is the performance model produces a maximum of 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque. It also has a top speed of 155 mph and can accelerate from 0 to 60 in 3.8 seconds. This is faster than many of its competitors.
Note that all three drivetrains feature 8-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel-drive system.
Comfort and cargo space
If you want a luxurious mid-size crossover SUV, the BMW X5 is an excellent choice. It is very spacious with lots of cargo space. The only car that competes with it in terms of spaciousness and comfort is the Mercedes GLE, which has similar specifications.
The BMW X5 comes with an option of third-row, which is somewhat cramped and only suitable for kids.
Fuel efficiency
The BMW X5 is one of the most fuel-efficient cars in its class. Featuring its inline-six engine, this car goes head-to-head with the four-cylinder powered Mercedes GLE and the four-cylinder Audi Q7. It has an EPA rating of 21 mpg in the city, 26 mpg on the highway, and a combined 23 mpg.
Safety
It is also one of the safest cars on the market, even though the Mercedes GLE comes with slightly more advanced safety features. This unit boasts automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring with cross-traffic alert as standard.
Price
The price of the BMW X5 is almost the same as its closest competitor, the Mercedes GLE-Class. The base BMW X5 goes for $60,600, while the base Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class goes for $57,000. So, the X5 is costly with a few dollars. But when it comes to repair and maintenance, the GLE is way cheaper.
FAQ
Is BMW X5 a good investment?
The BMW X5 can be a good investment if you want a powerful, safe, luxurious, comfortable, and spacious mid-size luxury crossover SUV. But if you’re looking for a more reliable mid-size SUV with a stylish and high-end interior, the BMW X5 is not for you.
Is BMW X5 a reliable car?
It depends on the year and model. Nonetheless, this car comes with a lot of issues compared to its competitors. That’s why it ranks slightly below average in terms of reliability. On top of that, most of the model years are unreliable and only a few are reliable. So, it is unreliable.
What Are the common problems with the BMW X5?
BMW X5 may be a powerful and luxurious mid-size SUV, but it comes with a plethora of issues. These include engine overheating, engine stalling, engine misfiring, wear and tear on door handles, loss of brake power, creaking tailgate, and much more.
More about BMW X5 problems.
Conclusion
Generally, the BMW X5 is one of the best mid-size luxury SUVs for the money. It is powerful, spacious, fun to ride, safe, and with highly advanced features. It is also powerful and only a few competitors beat it, such as the Audi Q7 and Porsche Cayenne.
Even though this SUV has a lot of positive attributes, it is also the least reliable BMW model on the market. All in all, it performs exceptionally well and offers value for money.