2005 BMW X5 Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.42/5 Average
123 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Front lumbar supports and automatic climate control are now standard on all models, while the 4.4i gets standard park distance control. The optional auto-dimming rearview mirror now includes a digital compass. High-gloss dark wood trim is standard on the 3.0i and replaces high-gloss light wood trim as standard on the 4.4i. Anthracite wood trim and high-gloss light wood trim are available at no extra charge.

Pros:
  • Rides and drives like a BMW sedan, multiple drivetrain choices, top safety scores, high-end cabin furnishings.
Cons:
  • Not much cargo space, lousy fuel economy for a car-based SUV, expensive option packages.

User Reviews:

Showing 11 through 20 of 123.00
  • lemon x5 4.8is - 2005 BMW X5
    By -

    This is my third BMW and I would not go for BMW again. Sometime the back door locks wont open and we cannot open the back door from inside or outside. Kids can be trap inside the car unless they climb to the front seat. The steering wheel get stiff from time to time. Self leveling light is always on. In the winter the lock freeze easily thus impossible to open or close. The motor rattles too much on a cold days. I went to the dealers many times and they have no clue what is going on. The computer cant pick anything up. This is a 80 k truck and it made like crap. I certainly wouldnt try another BMW again. All German car dont seem to know how to design electronic properly.

  • I Will Never Buy Another BMW - 2005 BMW X5
    By -

    I bought mine Certified Pre-Owned which Ive come to find out means nothing. I had always dreamed of a luxury car and was thrilled to drive off the lot with it. Since then I have been so disappointed. Constant problems with the Nav, warning lights coming on, lighter fuse busting, Blutooth issues and worst of all -when I accidentally locked my keys in the car w/ my dog inside, BMW Roadside Assistance told me that it was "highly unlikely" that the locksmith could open it (this happens a lot they said) and that I would have to wait 48 hrs for a key to be made or just break the window. Well, oviously, had to break the window. It was $900 to fix. Im over BMW. P.S. Replacement keys are $225.

  • Never Again - 2005 BMW X5
    By -

    Creature comforts are very nice and fun to drive but horribly unreliable. At 42,000 miles started to sound like a diesel, alternator bearings bad and then completely failed. Cheap oem crimp style hose clamp on transmission recovery bottle failed which is also positioned directly above alternator.Dealer service technicians incorrectly diagnosed as having a bad high pressure power steering hose.Found out they wanted 1500 for repair and I towed it back home to fix myself for $150.Eats break pads and rotors for lunch,repld with better aftermarket.Brake pad sensor is poor design and you must replace sensor at pad change or your brake pad warning light will stay illuminated.

  • This is the best- handling SUV - 2005 BMW X5
    By -

    Still driving this 2005 in 2010, and intend on keeping it. This is the best- handling SUV - perfect size, balance, pick-up. I like it better than the 2006 model, which is wider and feels less nimble. If the seats are too hard for you, buy a Buick. They are just right for a sporty drive. And personally, I love the sound and feel of the heavy clunk of the doors. Heavy they are, safe they are, also. Yet the X5 4.4i never makes you think youre driving a tank (hello Range Rover!). Ive never driven any other SUV that had the handling characteristic of this X5. BMW got that one just right.

  • Gotta love it - 2005 BMW X5
    By -

    Our car now has 90,000 miles on it, and I still smile every time I drive it. It is so responsive, and tight around the corners, that I often forget that Im in a huge SUV. I was almost ran off the road one day with my 2 kids in the back, and I fought to keep the vehicle on the road, but the BMW handled so well, that we got back on track and on our way. I truly believe that in any other SUV we would have tipped and crashed. People keep mentioning gas mileage, but they forget they bought a performance car! Indy cars and jet planes dont get great mileage either! I think its pretty good- we average about 22 and got 28 on a long highway trip!

  • Great Car - 2005 BMW X5
    By -

    We purchased this new in 2005 and have 110,000 miles on it now. Was in the shop a few times right after we bought it, but it hasnt been back (other than scheduled maintenance) since. The car is incredibly reliable and is as solid as a rock. You can tell the build quality and safety by the weight of the doors. Great heated seats, panorama sunroof, and comfort. Holds up to wear and tear very well driving around three busy sons. Definitely would buy another.

  • X5 - M5! - 2005 BMW X5
    By -

    This car delivers the goods in spades. Comfort, speed, quiet, handling, looks, and fun. Youd swear you were driving an automatic M5 SUV. Estimated MPG 16/21 isnt bad for this big cousin of the M5 beast either. Love it.

  • Like it a lot! - 2005 BMW X5
    By -

    Got a heck of a deal compared to blue book pricing - This car has been great. Love the sleek design, big sunroof and great handling. Unfortunately Ive already learned that it performs well in side impact. The fuel economy is not great but a little better than advertised. I think that on the highway I average about 25mpg. In the city about 18. If you drive it nice its not terrible. Lots of room for all passengers and luggage. This car really is about as close to perfect as I could hope for - I think when I trade I will do so for a 2010 X5 Diesel in 2-3 years. Woo hoo for more fuel economy.

  • BMW4KS - 2005 BMW X5
    By -

    Absolutely AMAZING Vehicle!! The 2005 BMW X5 4.8 makes driving a pleasure.

  • Exactly What I Expected.... - 2005 BMW X5
    By -

    Edmunds editors review is very accurate! I traded a 2002 525 for this X5. I wanted more room than the 525, but really liked interior configuration, styling, and ride (not to mention how much I hate the new 530 styling). The X5 is very very close to my old 525...it just feels a bit heavier. The gas mileage has been the only disappointment, but the X5 feels very quick and responsive, so Im guessing that the mileage is the trade-off. If youre looking for the BMW ride and performance, but the size of a SUV, this is a great choice.

Great Deals Near You
  • Loading cars...

Selected Edmunds.com visitor vehicle reviews

Edmunds.com Visitor Vehicle Ratings and Reviews are the property of Edmunds.com, and may not be reproduced or distributed without the consent of Edmunds.com. Edmunds© is a trademark of Edmunds.com, Inc. Edmunds.com, Inc. is not affiliated with this website or app.

Powered By Edmunds

× Estimated monthly payments based on 3.9% APR, 60 month financing, and 20% down payment. Tax, tags, title, administration fees, and license fees are not included in price or payment. Subject to approved buyer credit. Actual purchase terms may vary.

Payment calculations are sourced by EveryAuto.com and may not reflect actual dealer financing terms.

Send Us Feedback ×


Locating Vehicles In Your Area