Overview & Reviews

The BMW X5 was this German automaker's first entry into the luxury SUV segment. Realizing that most SUV buyers rarely, if ever, venture off-road, BMW designed the X5 for on-road performance and handling. Short overhangs, a relatively compact size (the original was 4.5 inches shorter than the 5 Series sedan of the time) and car-based underpinnings combined to give the X5 its superb on-road performance. Built at BMW's first American assembly plant in South Carolina, the X5 quickly became a huge hit for BMW in the U.S.

The first-generation BMW X5 only sat five people, a disappointment for those who wanted greater capacity. This concern was addressed with the second-generation model, which offered a third-row seat and room for seven, along with more cargo capacity. Despite this growth, the X5 remained very entertaining to drive as luxury SUVs go. The latest, third-generation X5 stays the course with subtle, evolutionary changes that fortify the X5's standing as a fine choice, new or used, for a midsize luxury SUV that seats five or seven.

Current BMW X5
Redesigned for 2014, the current BMW X5 remains about the same size and weight as the previous-generation model and looks mostly similar. The most noticeable visual difference involves the blended-into-the-grille headlights. Among the improvements are a slightly roomier cabin, a second-row seat that is split into 40/20/40 sections and the adoption of the eight-speed automatic transmission for the diesel-powered engine.

The three main trim levels are the familiar 35i, 35d and 50i, with the numbers indicating what's under the hood. The "sDrive" moniker refers to rear-wheel drive (35i only), whereas "xDrive" indicates all-wheel drive, which is optional for the 35i and standard on the other versions.

The 35i models feature a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine that produces 300 horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque. The xDrive35d comes with a diesel-powered 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 that produces 255 hp and 413 lb-ft of torque. The xDrive50i gets a turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 good for 450 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque. All have an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Standard equipment for the 35i and 35d include xenon headlights, a sunroof, a power liftgate, leatherette (premium vinyl) upholstery, power and heated front seats, a 10.2-inch central display screen, the iDrive controller, a navigation system and a nine-speaker sound system. The X5 xDrive50i is equipped very similarly, though it has leather upholstery and upgraded front seats. Optional highlights include three major equipment lines (Luxury, xLine and M Sport), adaptive cruise control, added safety features, a premium sound system and a rear-seat entertainment system.

On the road, the third-generation X5 exhibits virtues like sharp steering, competent handling, a supple ride and effortless high-speed interstate cruising. The interior is elegant, with solid construction and high-quality materials. Models with the upgraded and extended leather options are particularly impressive. From the driver seat, you're presented with classic BMW gauges and a large central display screen with crisp graphics. The front seats are nicely shaped and adjust for a wide range of body types.

Utility can also be a concern, though. The second-row seats are comfortable, but rear legroom is merely adequate. Although it increases seating capacity to seven, the optional third row is even more cramped and really only accommodates children. All things considered, however, the latest X5 is a great choice for a midsize luxury crossover SUV.

Used BMW X5 Models
The second-generation BMW X5 was introduced for the 2007 model year and ran through 2013. This X5 was bigger, more luxurious and smoother riding than its predecessor. This X5 was initially available as the 3.0si (260-hp 3.0-liter inline-6) and the 4.8i (350-hp 4.8-liter V8). Both had six-speed automatic transmissions. These models were renamed xDrive30i and xDrive48i for 2009, the same year the turbodiesel (265-hp) xDrive35d debuted. The term "xDrive" refers to the standard all-wheel-drive system.

The following year BMW updated the iDrive interface, while 2011 ushered in the new turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 and 4.4-liter V8 gasoline engines, whose outputs stood at 300 and 400 hp, respectively. The gas engines had an eight-speed automatic transmission, while the turbodiesel stayed with the older six-speed automatic. At that point, the model lineup consisted of the X5 xDrive35i, X5 xDrive50i and X5 xDrive35d. For 2013, an M Performance package debuted; in addition to cosmetic upgrades, it added 15 hp to the xDrive35i and 40 hp to the xDrive50i. The even higher-performance BMW X5 M model was offered from 2010-'13 and is reviewed separately.

These BMW X5s offer a fair amount of utility thanks to standard all-wheel drive and an optional third-row seat. They're also quite sporty, as they infuse spirited acceleration and Bavarian handling chutzpah into the high-riding body of a family-friendly crossover SUV. As such, these second-gen X5s remain very attractive for those who want the "S" in SUV to actually mean something.

In Edmunds road tests, our editors found this X5's handsome cabin very accommodating, with comfortable seating for the first two rows. Materials and build quality were top-notch, and the iDrive system by this time had become one of the better multifunction electronics interfaces available. The heavy steering at low speeds and a smallish "kids-only" third-row seat are the only sour notes in this otherwise sweet midsize SUV.

The original, first-generation BMW X5 was produced from 2000-'06. It was initially offered with one engine only: a 4.4-liter V8. A 3.0-liter inline-6 debuted the following year. Though the six-cylinder offered superior fuel economy and adequate overall performance, it was often criticized for its lack of off-the-line grunt. The 4.4i reached 60 mph in less than 8 seconds. One note to buyers looking at a first-year BMW X5: All X5 models manufactured after June 2000 (starting with the '01 model year) benefited from important structural changes that improved occupant protection in frontal crashes.

In 2002, the high-performance BMW X5 4.6is debuted, boasting a 4.6-liter V8 making 340 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque. The midlevel X5 4.4i saw an 8 hp increase to 290 for the year. Towing aficionados welcomed a new version of the stability control system that aided trailer towing, and BMW finally made a CD player standard in its luxury SUV.

In 2004, the first-generation X5 received its most extensive update. A new front fascia received BMW's signature corona ringed headlamps, optional adaptive headlights and new foglamps. The year also marked the introduction of BMW's new all-wheel-drive system, xDrive. Compared to the previous setup, xDrive was far more capable, with its ability to transfer 100 percent of the engine's torque to one individual wheel. (The old system could only distribute torque front to rear.)

Also noteworthy for 2004 was the replacement of the high-performance X5 4.6is with the 355-hp 4.8is model. BMW also installed the V8 engine from the 2002 7 Series sedan in the midlevel X5 4.4i, which raised output by 35 horses to 325 hp.

In reviews, we typically praised the first-generation BMW X5 for its carlike ride and handling, its wide range of engine choices and its top safety scores and equipment. Oft-noted downsides included its lack of off-road ability and small cargo area.

User Reviews:

• 

  BMW X5 4.4i Sport - 2003 BMW X5
  By Mohammed Sadek - October 17 - 2:00 am

  Excellent performance in all areas. Like the brakes a lot - progressive and nicely weighted. Steering has accurate feedback, even better from the seats themselves. Very fun to drive, with little body sway The quality of the materials themselves and fit and finish is outstanding. i dont think quality and reliability is an issue. Just close the substantially heavy doors and listen. I dont why some people say the quality isnt good....a find the car much tighter than a Toyata Landcruiser

• 

  The Sportiest "SUV" Out There! - 2002 BMW X5
  By Patricia - October 8 - 2:00 am

  A true BMW performer! Have tested many other vehicles and always kept coming back to the X5. V8 is very fast and the quality finish is superb. Very sexy, eye catching and very safe, especially in a crash! Once you drive a BMW, you will not go back to anything else, it just gives you that special feeling and you know that everyone around you wished they had one too.

• 

  SAV - 2001 BMW X5
  By TRubino - October 4 - 2:00 am

  Great SAV. Handles like a sports cars. Great response with no tip over fear. Front seats are very confortable but back seats should be improved.

• 

  BMW X5 - 2002 BMW X5
  By porkchop - September 30 - 2:00 am

  I have owned my X5 for approx, 18months. I have more fun than I have ever had driving. While the cargo space appears small, its capacity has never been an issue. The backseat room has generated more positive comments than any other vehicle I have ever owned. I would recommend this vehicle to anyone looking for a great SUV that loves to drive. One thing to remember is get the 4.4litre engine. Makes all the difference in the world.

• 

  Best vehicle Ive ever owned - 2001 BMW X5
  By Harley GT - September 20 - 2:00 am

  Great transportation. An SUV that handles like a sports car. Have 3.0 engine with 5 speed manual...performance and 21 MPG is outstanding. Sure footed in the rain and snow. Brakes are superior. Ive owned 20 + or - different vehicles an dthis is hands down the best, and it only gets better as the miles rack up.

• 

  Nothing compares - 2016 BMW X5
  By Robert DiGiorgio - September 13 - 3:50 am

  Perfect Ride

• 

  2002 BMW X5 - A True Superstar! - 2002 BMW X5
  By mark fee - September 13 - 2:00 am

  This is the finest automibile that I have ever owned. In fact, it is the finest vehicle that I have ever driven. The X5 has an uncanny ability to predict what the driver wants (and needs) and does it for / with you. It is refined and comfortable. I would buy it again in a heartbeat and will continue to drive one unless the rumored X7 comes out and then I might try the X7. The safety and comfort offered by the X5 is second to none. It is comfortable on long trips and is a blast on windy roads! It truly is "The Ultimate Driving Machine!"

• 

  The Anti Slug - 2002 BMW X5
  By BIMMERDUDE - September 7 - 2:00 am

  I just sold my 2003 Range Rover HSE which I had for a month for the X5 4.4. I tell you, my nickname for the Range Rover is the Slug-Rover, up hills will take you a decade. Even though the X has less cargo space it is worth the 50,000+. It is a true Bimmer at heart, or engine. Hope you consider this when buying.

• 

  incomparable - 2002 BMW X5
  By B2MEE - August 31 - 2:00 am

  The vehicle is awesome. Though some may cost less or have a little more cargo room, nothing compares...I know because I drove them as well. Anyone rating another higher must not appreciate true workmanship, engineering, and capability...you do get what you pay for.

• 

  X5 ANOTHER DREAM MACHINE - 2000 BMW X5
  By ross taylor - August 29 - 2:00 am

  ITS A DREAM TO DRIVE WHETHER ITS CROSS TOWN OR CROSS-COUNTRY. TERRIFIC TRACTION IN ALL-TERRAIN. PLENTY OF ROOM TO COMFORTABLY RELAX AND ENJOY THE RIDE. MANUEVERS LIKE THE 5 SERIES SEDAN AND WITH ALL THE PUNCH OF M- SERIES. ITS HARD TO IMAGINE IT CAN GET ANY BETTER THAN THIS!