2003 BMW X5 Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.56/5 Average
234 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

This year, BMW will finally offer a DVD-based navigation system, though you must still give up the in-dash CD player if you opt for nav. Besides that, rear head protection airbags (optional last year) are now standard, as is an interesting new safety item called a brakeforce display -- during emergency braking situations, an extra set of rear brake lights will illuminate to warn motorists behind you. If you order the optional adjustable ride height suspension package, it no longer precludes the addition of the sport package. On the inside, new Dakota leather replaces the familiar Montana leather upholstery (it's optional on the 3.0i model and standard on the 4.4i). Individual model changes include a body-colored tailgate handle for any 3.0i equipped with the sport or premium package, and V-rated tires and an unlimited top speed for any sport package-equipped 4.4i.

Pros:
  • Rides and drives like a BMW sedan, wide range of engine choices, top safety scores, high-end cabin furnishings.
Cons:
  • Limited off-road abilities, less interior volume than a 5 Series wagon, price goes up quickly with options, lousy fuel economy in the city.

User Reviews:

Showing 21 through 30 of 234.00
  • Other SUVs should make one too.. - 2003 BMW X5
    By -

    The best performance I have had in an SUV, have had a Suburban, loved that, had a Chrysler ML, hated it!, but now this is brand new, and the best one out there. Gas mileage not the best, but then with SUVs I have become accustomed to that fact. Other than that, the best fit/finish, the most masculine looking yet highest style out of all. Definitely not a minivan trying to be an SUV. Wouldnt even consider anything else now as a replacement when its time for a new car.

  • x5 review - 2003 BMW X5
    By -

    i have been so happy with this car. It was definitly the best car that i ever purchased. I can still have a durable suv that i can take anywhere and i know will have power, yet i also have the luxury suv that is perfect. also i always can rely on it because it is a bmw and they have always been the most reliable car in my vision

  • The Ultimate Driving Machine - 2003 BMW X5
    By -

    The BMW X5 is the first new car I have ever owned and I will never drive anything but a BMW. The performance and handling of this luxury SUV makes it feel as if you are driving on clouds. Once you have driven a BMW nothing else can hold a candle to this ultimate driving machine.

  • BMW X5 3.0 Great Car - 2003 BMW X5
    By -

    Just bought it last week. Base model 3.0 still has good power. Interior finish and materials are excellent. Interior is roomy (even the back power reclining seats), and very comfortable. The NAV system is much improved for 2003. Its very easy to use. We almost bought the Vovlo XC90, but the dealers will not deal on price. Plus, the performance of the X5 is simply superior.

  • Mixed bag - 2003 BMW X5
    By -

    Performance, appearance, gas mileage are all excellent. The interior trim is not holding up and the controls are terrible. AM radio reception is terrible and the controls on the steering wheel are much too complicated in comparison to the Mercedes and Honda I drive. Cruise Control has 4 buttons with symbols and must be actuated whenever you start the vehicle. The sound system has no dial to go from stations only a button to advance. I would never buy another BMW. Ill stick to Mercedes and Hondas. This is a fun to drive ride and it is a shame they let the little things get in the way of satisfaction for people like me.

  • Fun vs. Frustration - 2003 BMW X5
    By -

    I have owned trucks and SUVs all my life and I have yet to own one that is as much fun to drive as the X5. You pass other drivers like theyre in reverse and it corners and brakes like a BMW should. Its one of the best looking vehicles on the road and no matter how hard you push it, it wants more. However, every other month another sensor or display light would go off or hose will leak or seal break and Id get hit with another $500 bill (at a minimum) to fix something that just shouldnt go wrong (door locks, airbag light, etc.). It was always something. If you have the patience and another vehicle to rely on, its a great car. If its your only car, check your roadside assistance.

  • X5 Forever - 2003 BMW X5
    By -

    Great ride and drive!

  • No competition! - 2003 BMW X5
    By -

    My X5 4.4i is the best of 20 cars I have owned! It pulls my wakeboard boat with ease and looks great doing it. The cold weather pkg even finds it uses in the summer (heated seats on cold lake nights)! This SUV drives and rides like a car, any my friends with Tahoes and Armadas get jealous after driving it. Doesnt have the most storage in the back, but enough to take camping and haul the kids (and their stuff) around. It has been a pure pleasure to own and to drive. I look forward to upgrading to new 2007+ body style and the third row seat for the kids friends. I have never met another X5 owner who did not love their car. So, go get one already. :)

  • Unreliable $60,000 SUV - 2003 BMW X5
    By -

    Reliability has been less then stellar. Numerous warranty issues and road side assistance questions quality control. The car is fun to drive and can be nicely equipped at a price. A base $40,000 car soon goes to close to $60,000. For that kind of money I expect more.

  • Great Car - 2003 BMW X5
    By -

    BMW engineers should be proud of the X5. They designed/built this vehicle at a platform where other car manufacturers would only dream of and of course try to copy after years of scracthing their heads. As an aerospace engineer, I think they have done a marvelous job in using sensor technology to enhance safety, handling and comfort. The multi link rear suspension is incredible for stability. Even the car key uses advanced technology for comfort and safety. Bravo to all Bimmer engineers!!!

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