The X5 comes in one of four different configurations, each with their own drivetrain. Powering base models is a 3.0L 6-cylinder engine making 335 hp. Power is sent to the rear wheels via an 8-speed automatic. The next trim level up uses the same engine, but instead sends power to all-four wheels. For those wanting a little more power, the top-of-the-line M50i is powered by a V8 twin-turbocharged 4.4L engine making 523 horsepower mated to an 8-speed auto. The hybrid xDrive45e is powered by a 3L turbocharged 6-cylinder engine combined with an electric motor that produces a combine horsepower of 389 horsepower. The hybrid has an all-electric range of 28 miles.
The base X5 sDrive40i may be at the bottom of the lineup, but it's far from sparsely equipped. It comes standard with 19-inch wheels, power folding and heated mirrors, a wood trimmed interior, Apple CarPlay, a 10-speaker sound system, SiriusXM satellite radio, two 12.3-inch displays, multiple USB ports, cruise control, keyless entry, automatic climate control, a panoramic moonroof with a 2-piece glass panel, rain sensing wipers, a power liftgate, heated front seats and ambient lighting.
The X5 M50i has a more aggressive exterior, with body colored side skirts and wheel arches along with a more aggressive front fascia. It looks far more aggressive and sportier on the outside to go along with its more serious performance goods. In addition to the bigger engine, it also gets sportier suspension, 20-inch wheels and a rear limited slip differential tuned by BMW's M division. Handling is improved over other versions of the X5, and the M50i should be able to hit 60 mph in under 5 seconds.
Standard safety equipment includes front and rear parking sensors, a lane departure warning system, blind spot warning, forward collision mitigation, rear collision warning, a pedestrian detection system, a driver attention alert and a traffic sign information system.
Roomy And Practical
Powerful Engine Options
Great Handling For An SUV
Smart Styling
Luxurious Features And Technology
Available All-wheel Drive
The BMW X5 gets a few changes for 2021, the xDrive50i is no longer available, a new hybrid xDrive45e was added, and Apple CarPlay\Android Auto connectivity is now standard.
With its starting price, the X5 is in direct competition with the Audi Q7 and the Mercedes GLE. The Audi, while providing lots of space, hasn't been redesigned since 2015 and is starting to show its age. Meanwhile the Mercedes GLE is, like the X5 a relatively new vehicle. However, the GLE is a far less sporty driving experience than the X5 and doesn't entertain the driver in the same way. The BMW X5 is able to provide true driving enjoyment in a class that usually doesn't do much to facilitate fun, making it pretty unique at this price point.
