Review - BMW X5

Today, we’re going to take a close look at BMW’s X5 lineup, which promises all the features, comfort, luxury and safety equipment you could dream of, in a stylish mid-sized crossover SUV shape, with the option of a plug-in hybrid. It’s been a sales hit for years now, taking out the top spot for the luxury SUV category last year after pipping the Mercedes-Benz GLE for the top spot.

So, just how good is the BMW X5, and which is the best model for you that gives you all the features you’d want, without paying too much? Let’s talk about it.

Starting Price: $104,900

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BMW X5 (xDRIVE25d) Specifications

For more details and other variants, check BMW X5 car page.

How Much Does It Cost?

The BMW X5 range kicks off at $104,900 for the entry-level X5 xDrive25d, which moves to $121,900 for the xDrive30d M Sport. From here, the middle of the range is made up by the xDrive40i M Sport and the xDrive45e M Sport, which are priced from $124,900 and $135,900 respectively. Moving up to the M50i Pure comes at a cost of $142,900, while the M50i has a price tag of $157,900. Finally, the range-topping BMW X5 M Competition is priced from $212,900.

Prices listed here do not include on-road costs.

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What Features Does the BMW X5 Have?

The entry-level BMW X5 xDrive25d comes riding on a set of 20-inch alloy wheels and is fitted with an adaptive suspension system. This is in addition to features like a 12.3-inch infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, satellite navigation, DAB digital radio, 10-speaker sound system, adaptive LED lights, dual-zone climate control, heated sport seats up front, keyless entry and start, head-up display and 12.3-inch digital driver’s display, wireless smartphone charging, hands-free boot lift, ambient lighting and leather upholstery.

Stepping up to the xDrive30d, xDrive40i and xDrive45e variants add their own more powerful engine, as well as BMW’s M Sport package, which adds a number of exterior styling and interior changes, sporty brakes, adaptive M suspension, a panoramic sunroof and Vernasca leather, while the xDrive45e receives an adaptive air suspension system.

Stepping up to the M50i Pure adds a significantly more powerful engine, as well as a set of 22-inch alloys, M Sport differential and a special exhaust system. The M50i receives a set of Laserlight headlights, four-zone climate control, leather instrument panel, and a 16-speaker sound system from Harman Kardon.

Finally, BMW’s flagship X5, the M Competition comes packed with 21-inch front and 22-inch rear alloys, BMW’s gesture control system, adaptive M suspension and active exhaust systems, as well as an active M differential.

Range Features:

• 2 x 12.3-inch screens
• Adaptive suspension
• Adaptive LED headlights
• 20-inch alloys
• Surround view camera
• Heated front sport seats
• Panoramic sunroof (M Sport variants)
• Adaptive M Suspension (M Sport variants)
• Laserlight headlights (M50i)
• Active exhaust (M Competition)
• Merino leather upholstery (M Competition)

BMW X5 Colours

Is it Comfortable to Drive?

The entire BMW X5 family offers an exceptionally high ride quality, and allows the driver and front passenger to enjoy the views across the road with the added ride height of an SUV. BMW has done a great job in making the X5 manageable for drivers new to larger SUV body shapes, and at times, you can fool yourself into thinking you’re driving one of BMW’s smaller cars.

The addition of adaptive suspension to even the entry-level xDrive25d is a very welcomed addition, particularly for Australian roads, which irons out some of the worst bumps on the road and transmits very little back into the cabin. The ride quality of the X5 lineup is absolutely exceptional, sets the standard for the luxury SUV segment when it comes to occupant comfort and refinement.

All X5 models use an eight-speed automatic transmission that provides quick and smooth shifts, and makes driving an absolute pleasure. The X5 really does set the benchmark for its rivals when it comes to driving comfort and overall dynamics, and is more user-friendly than its size would suggest. Combined with BMW’s range of smart driving systems and cutting edge technologies mean that parking and navigating tight spots is a straight-forward process.

Is it Practical and Spacious?

As you can imagine, the front of the X5’s cabin is extremely spacious, offering a luxurious atmosphere for the driver, filled with leather, silver accents and two large, high definition screens. There’s also a number of storage spots in the front of the cabin to accommodate loose items that can clutter up a car’s interior. The spacious approach to packaging continues in the rear of the cabin, where there is a huge amount of head and legroom for rear passengers, as well as easily-accessible ISOFIX and top tether mounting points for child seats.

In the rear of the X5, the boot offers 650L of cargo storage, which extends to 1870L with the rear seats folded down. This means that the BMW X5 has absolutely no problem accommodating a family-sized amount of luggage and five passengers for a long holiday road trip, especially if you opt-in for the optional roof racks.

Is it Safe?

The BMW X5 has been awarded ANCAP’s maximum five-star safety rating, receiving 89 out of 100 for adult occupant protection and 87 out of 100 for child protection. As standard, BMW includes a number of active safety technologies with even the entry-level xDrive25d, which include blind-spot monitoring, front and rear cross-traffic alerts, adaptive cruise control, 360-degree camera, reverse camera with rear parking sensors, lane-keep assist and a host of airbags.

Is it Fuel Efficient?

For the entry-level xDrive25d, the X5’s combined cycle economy figure stands at 6.7L per 100km, while the xDrive30d returns a figure of 7.2L per 100km. The xDrive40i’s figure hovers around 9.2L per 100km, while the range-topping M50i and M Competition return figures of 11.5L per 100km and 12.5L per 100km.

In terms of fuel economy, the highlight and clear winner of the X5 range comes in the form of the plug-in hybrid, xDrive45e variant, which is rated at just 2.3L per 100km and has a range of 87km on electric power alone.

Our Verdict: Is the BMW X5 Worth it?

It’s no coincidence that the BMW X5 has been Australia’s best-selling luxury SUV for a while now. BMW has created an extremely quality product that essentially meets the major demands of every type of car buyer in a single package. It’s worth noting that the entry-level X5 is an exceptional vehicle, and there’s no real need to step up higher into the lineup. It comes with a powerful engine, loads of technology, a spacious and luxurious cabin and a heap of safety equipment, and will serve every family well.

However, if you have the resources available, the only problem when it comes to the X5 lineup is choosing which is the best option for you and your family. If you’re more interested in features and keeping your family comfortable, the xDrive40i M Sport is the most sensible pick of the range, while fans of performance will have no option but opting for the twin-turbo V8 M50i. On that note, if you’re in the market for a new car, you can get a free quote and see how much OnlineAuto can save you on your next car purchase, or call us on 1300 719 925

Five Specs You Need to Know

1. Three-Year, Unlimited KM Warranty
2. Seven different X5 options
3. Plug-in Hybrid xDrive45e uses just 2.3L per 100km compared to 11.5L per 100km in M50i
4. 650L of cargo storage; 1870L with rear-seats folded
5. Prices range between $104,900 - $212,900

Pros

• Exceptional build quality, equipment and features on even entry-level model
• Powerful and smooth engine and transmission combinations
• Smart safety equipment included as standard

Cons

• Expensive optional extra packages
• Three Year Warranty
• Larger alloy wheels can hurt ride quality

OnlineAuto Rating: 8/10

BMW X5 Competition