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BMW X5 — US review

BMW X5 Review (2024–)

Specs, Features, Pros & Verdict

BMW US review Since 2024 By the True Motion Auto editorial team

Vehicle Overview

SegmentMid-size luxury SUV
Body Style5-door SUV (5- or 7-seater option)
Model Year2024 (facelifted G05 generation)
Trim Levels (U.S./UK)X5 sDrive40i, xDrive40i, xDrive50e (Plug-in Hybrid), X5 M60i, X5 M Competition

The BMW X5 remains one of the most accomplished luxury SUVs on the market — balancing performance, comfort, and advanced technology.

Introduced in 1999 and now in its fourth generation, the X5 defined BMW’s SUV legacy. The 2024 facelift brings fresh styling, upgraded powertrains (with 48V mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid tech), and BMW’s latest iDrive 8.5 infotainment system.

Rivals include the Mercedes-Benz GLE, Audi Q7, Volvo XC90, and Range Rover Sport. Yet, the X5 continues to lead with its combination of power, refinement, and precise handling.

Key Specifications

VariantPowertrainPower / Torque0–60 mphDrivetrainEconomy / Range
xDrive40i3.0L Turbo I6 (48V mild hybrid)375 hp / 383 lb-ft5.2 sAWD25 mpg combined
xDrive50e (PHEV)3.0L Turbo I6 + e-motor, 25.7 kWh battery483 hp / 516 lb-ft4.6 sAWD40 mi EV / 50 MPGe
M60i xDrive4.4L Twin-Turbo V8 (48V mild hybrid)523 hp / 553 lb-ft4.2 sAWD20 mpg combined
X5 M Competition4.4L Twin-Turbo V8 (high-output)617 hp / 553 lb-ft3.7 sAWD17 mpg combined
Transmission8-speed Steptronic Sport automatic
PlatformCLAR (Cluster Architecture)
Dimensions (L×W×H)194.3 × 78.9 × 68.7 in
Wheelbase117.1 in
Cargo Space650 L (22.9 cu ft) / 1,870 L (66 cu ft) folded
Towing CapacityUp to 7,200 lbs (3,265 kg)

Exterior Design

The 2024 X5 receives a sharper, more modern appearance with slimmer adaptive LED headlights, a revised kidney grille (available with Iconic Glow illumination), and re-sculpted bumpers for a sportier stance.

New colors — including Blue Ridge Mountain Metallic and Marina Bay Blue (M models) — add flair. Wheel sizes range from 19" to 22".

The X5 maintains an athletic, commanding presence that combines elegance and strength — unmistakably BMW, with a touch of grandeur.

Interior, Comfort & Materials

Inside, the X5 feels like a rolling luxury lounge. The cabin combines opulent materials with digital sophistication.

BMW Curved Display12.3" driver + 14.9" infotainment screen

Premium Merino leather or Sensafin upholstery

Ambient lighting with dynamic color themes

Heated, ventilated, and massaging seats

Optional crystal gear selector and glass controls

Acoustic glazing and top-tier noise insulation

Passenger space is abundant, with optional third-row seating for families. Rear seat comfort and visibility remain best-in-class.

Features & Infotainment

iDrive 8.5 with QuickSelect and improved voice control

Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto

Head-Up Display

Harman Kardon or Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound

Wireless charging pad & multiple USB-C ports

Augmented-reality navigation

4-zone climate control & rear-seat entertainment screens

Panoramic Sky Lounge LED roof

The iDrive 8.5 interface brings faster responses, enhanced widgets, and smarter integration for navigation and media.

Safety & Ratings

NHTSA★★★★★ (5-Star Overall Rating)
IIHSTop Safety Pick+ (2023)

Driver Assistance & Safety Tech

Forward Collision Warning & Auto Braking

Lane Departure & Lane Keep Assist

Blind-Spot Monitoring & Rear Cross-Traffic Alert

Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go

Parking Assistant Professional (self-parking)

Highway Assistant (semi-autonomous driving up to 85 mph)

360° Surround View with 3D view

BMW’s suite of assistance features ensures top-tier safety and convenience.

Driving Performance & Handling

The BMW X5 continues to set the benchmark for how a luxury SUV should drive. The base xDrive40i impresses with its smooth, refined power delivery and mild-hybrid boost for instant torque.

The xDrive50e plug-in hybrid is a standout — more powerful, faster, and with nearly 40 miles of all-electric range.

The M60i and X5 M Competition unleash supercar-like performance with thunderous V8 engines, adaptive M suspension, and rear-biased AWD. Despite its size, the X5 corners with precision and stability, while maintaining a plush ride.

Fuel Efficiency / EV Range

xDrive40i: 25 mpg combined

xDrive50e PHEV: 40-mile EV range / 50 MPGe

M60i20 mpg combined
X5 M Competition17 mpg combined

The plug-in hybrid version offers meaningful electric-only commuting capability without compromising luxury or performance.

Practicality & Everyday Usability

650 L (22.9 cu ft) boot / 1,870 L (66 cu ft) folded

Power split tailgate (upper/lower design)

40/20/40 rear seat folding

Optional 7-seat configuration

Excellent visibility & parking aids

Ample storage compartments throughout

The X5 excels as a family-friendly luxury SUV — roomy, versatile, and easy to live with.

Warranty & Maintenance

Basic Warranty4 years / 50,000 miles
Hybrid Battery Warranty8 years / 100,000 miles
Free Maintenance3 years / 36,000 miles (BMW Ultimate Care)
Roadside Assistance4 years / unlimited miles

Price & Value for Money

MSRP (2024 U.S.)

X5 xDrive40i — $66,195

X5 xDrive50e (PHEV) — $73,495

X5 M60i — $90,295

X5 M Competition — $123,295

The X5 delivers outstanding value by combining luxury, tech, and capability. The plug-in hybrid version offers the best balance of performance, economy, and future readiness.

Comparison with Rivals

ModelPower (hp)Drivetrain0–60 mphStarting Price
BMW X5 xDrive40i375AWD5.2 s$66,195
Mercedes GLE 450381AWD5.5 s$69,500
Audi Q7 55 TFSI335AWD5.7 s$61,400
Volvo XC90 B6295AWD6.0 s$57,700

The X5 leads with stronger performance, sharper handling, and superior infotainment while retaining equal or better comfort levels.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Exceptional build quality and comfort

Powerful, refined engines with hybrid tech

Class-leading infotainment and connectivity

Smooth, composed ride and handling

PHEV offers real EV range and performance

Cons

Optional extras increase price quickly

Third-row seats best for occasional use

Firm ride on larger wheels (M models)

Overall Rating

4.8 / 5 Stars – The definitive luxury SUV for drivers who demand performance, technology, and refinement in equal measure.

Final Verdict

The BMW X5 continues to dominate the mid-size luxury SUV category, offering a masterful balance of elegance, technology, and dynamic performance.

Whether you choose the efficient xDrive50e plug-in hybrid or the ferocious X5 M Competition, every variant feels meticulously engineered and effortlessly premium.

It’s the perfect all-rounder — luxurious enough for daily comfort, powerful enough for thrill-seekers, and advanced enough for the future of driving.

Affiliate & Monetization CTA

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Specifications, prices and equipment were current at publication and vary by model year, trim and market. Verify final details with a franchised dealer before ordering. Read how we review cars and our editorial policy.