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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  Tranny Problems Anyone? - 2007 BMW X5
  By Texaninpdx - May 14 - 4:34 pm

  I too had issues with the transmission not wanting to shift. Luckily I was near my home. Nonetheless, I took it in and a computer reset was done - havent had the issue since. Otherwise, traded an 07 Escalade for this beauty. I love it and would recommend it to anyone looking for sporty driving as well as utility.

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  Read before you buy - 2001 BMW X5
  By CRJ Driver - April 22 - 2:05 pm

  I do not own this car any more. This was the car that made me switch brands for good. I am like most of you. I dont mind paying as long as I get my moneys worth. I did not. Reliability is a big issue with me. I have had it until it went out of warranty, only owner, always kept up with the services, 11 pages of records from day one. Little things, dead battery, window regulators, Nav screen, abs sensors, vacuum leaks (intake manifold) MAF sensor, self leveling rear suspension sensors, A/C sensor, oil separator, among other things. Other than that, fun car to drive when not in shop. Well built, smooth engine but the fear of something going wrong anytime overshadows the driving experience.

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  Good News and Bad News - 2003 BMW X5
  By lnesq - April 21 - 10:00 am

  Handles like a dream, real performance vehicle. Gives you the pick up you need at stop lights and when you need to pass. Interior center console is useless,does it ever occur to designers that people might have different uses for these? Forget the cup holders, or at least allow me to remove them if I wish. The manual AC is a mystery. There is no way to figure out the controls, something about blue dots and red dots and several little dials need to be lined up in some sort of order. Who knows.

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  Underpowered - 2007 BMW X5
  By Frank - February 26 - 4:49 pm

  Bought new 2007 X5 sight unseen. Ordered in October, picked up car in January. In gently rolling area the X5 3.0 seems underpowered. The transmission is constantly shifting and feels like it is straining. If you really put your foot on the gas, its not as noticeable. Love the design, in fact am trading in for the X5 4.8. Its going to cost, but my mistake.

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  BMW X5 3.0i - 2003 BMW X5
  By Northeast - January 28 - 8:09 am

  The SUV is very nice. Very comfortable and easy to drive. I have owned since new. Good build quality, many nice features. Operation has been trouble free. Ride is slightly "bouncy" on bumpy roads. Performance of engine is fine. I would recommend it.

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  Richard Neft X5 SUV - 2007 BMW X5
  By Richard Neft - December 14 - 12:13 pm

  The X5 is a great SUV. This is my second X5. It is a great car, dependable and comfortable, safe and has many features.

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  not a reliable vehicle - 2003 BMW X5
  By pcc - November 6 - 2:00 am

  A very disappointing vehicle. Our X5 is in the shop an average of every six weeks for various problems. It has been recalled several times. The interior door handle finish is peeling off on all four handles (supposedly, this is "normal" wear and tear - sure, if this were a ten year old car!). The steering wheel makes a horrible grinding noise in cold weather (three visits, not fixed - a piece fell out recently). The latest problem - the seal on the sunroof is starting to fail. This vehicle is not up to usual BMW standards. We are getting rid of it this week.

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  2003 X5 - 2003 BMW X5
  By Ed Price - August 24 - 9:03 pm

  After driving this car for 3 years, I was very happy with the dependability of the car. No electrical problems and except for service, never needed repairs. Only disappointment is lack of changes in style and interior from year to year.

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  One mans garbage is anothers pot of gold - 2008 BMW X5
  By Juan - August 20 - 9:34 am

  Wanted to write my own review of this machine. I got a hold of this truck at eight years old with 56500 miles on it. For being that old with two previous drivers, this truck still looks like new, and it seems to have been built with quality exterior paint and strong leather that also looks new. After reading a few of these reviews I can see why people complain about the third row seating, its really meant for kids under 5 feet. The rear view camera doesnt function well at night. The transmission is a beast but when going through first and second gear it doesnt seem to sync right after that its all down hill. I enjoy the 350 hp, the panoramic sunroof, all accessible controls, quit ride, bright led lights, the onboard diagnostic feature. I hope my review doesnt change in the next year.

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  OK - 2005 BMW X5
  By cabinduncan12 - July 30 - 1:17 pm

  The BMW X5 is a great car to drive on the highway, but is completely unsafe to drive in the snow, even with snow tires. The rear wheel drive is too unreliable. The seats in the front of the SUV are comfortable for about 20 minutes, but after that, your back will get sore. The back seats are too stiff, for there is no siding for your back, and no grip.