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:

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  Whats not to like. - 2002 BMW X5
  By jdk - April 1 - 2:00 am

  I was asked if I like my X5 and my reply was "whats not to like". As in true BMW form the X5 is a fine automobile. I have nothing bad to say about this car and mostly superlatives when talking about it. The 4.4i engine is responsive and fast. The transmission is smooth as silk and matches perfectly to the engine.

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  As close to perfect as I can imagine - 2002 BMW X5
  By AJM - April 1 - 2:00 am

  My only gripe is that the cupholders need to be able to hold 32oz bottles or cups. 12oz beverages are a German thing I guess. The performance is excellent and I highly recommend going to South Carolina to the plant to pick yours up. What an experience!

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  The superstar 0f SUVs!!! - 2002 BMW X5
  By spunky - March 30 - 5:36 am

  The more I drive it the more I love this car. The performance of the 3.0 is impressive. Must say I was suprised at how well It handles, it inspires confidence.Super fun to drive. This is my first BMW, it will not be my last.

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  satisfied - 2002 BMW X5
  By arh - March 29 - 2:00 am

  Replaced my 2001 3.0 premium with a 2002 3.0 w sport pkg. Like the improved ride and handling.

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  BMW Fan Forever! - 2002 BMW X5
  By cd - March 27 - 2:00 am

  This is my first BMW and I am never going to drive any other brand from now on. I love it, love it, love it! Although it may seem very pricey, it is well worth it. It has all the makings of a dream machine: speed, agility, luxury, and toys galore!(Im still finding little perks here and there). I got it with the Xenon lights, heated seats and steering wheels,auto-dim mirror and moonroof, all pricey features but you wont regret it because they are oh so nice! This car does all the thinking for you on the maintenance factor, all you have to do is enjoy the drive!

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  BMW Fan Forever! - 2002 BMW X5
  By CD - March 27 - 2:00 am

  This is my first BMW and I am never going to drive any other brand from now on. I love it, love it, love it! Although it may seem very pricey, it is well worth it. It has all the makings of a dream machine: speed, agility, luxury, and toys galore!(Im still finding little perks here and there). I got it with the Xenon lights, heated seats and steering wheels,auto-dim mirror and moonroof, all pricey features but you wont regret it because they are oh so nice! This car does all the thinking for you on the maintenance factor, all you have to do is enjoy the drive!

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  Most fun car I have ever owned or driven - 2002 BMW X5
  By sreev - March 27 - 2:00 am

  This car is pure fun!

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  SPORT activity vehicle - 2002 BMW X5
  By Cohlmia - March 22 - 2:00 am

  The BMW X5 is the most wonderful car on the market. All its styles are praised for accenting the characteristics of a Sport Activity Vehicle. If one is looking for a bullet-proof truck with the ablility to compete with luxury sedans and sports cars in the same price range, this well built German beast is worth consideration. Needless to say, the X5 has a distinct lead on all SUVs in the world. The BMW X5 truly is an outstanding SAV. If it were up to me I would put it in its own category: SSAV(Sporty Sport Activity Vehicle).

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  Best SUV By Far - 2002 BMW X5
  By Ax - March 12 - 6:52 pm

  Excellent on highway or city. I had a 5 series sedan and the X5 compares very favorably on driving fun but I can also throw my bike in it as well as on top. AWD will take you anywhere a sane person should go. If you can afford the entry price and the maintenance get one.

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  Exhilerating - 2002 BMW X5
  By Just Do It - March 11 - 1:52 am

  I have owned M-Benz in the past and then bought a 2000 528iT and thought that was simply incredible. But the X5 is awesome, simply awesome. Its exterior design is simply breath taking. But wait till you slip behind the wheel. All I can say is that you are in complete control driving the X5 whether youre taking it easy at 45mph or hauling at 105. If you have never been in love you will be now. DRIVE THE X5, OWN AN X5, AND LIVE WITH AN X5!!!