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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  Happy New Owner - 2003 BMW X5
  By Loncar1 - July 13 - 2:00 am

  I looked at a lot of the new 03 and 04 SUVs and only the BMW really had the performance on the road I was looking for. Having had 3 Grand Cherokee Ltds prior, the BMW is a great step forward and much better than the ML Class Chrylser/Benz tries to put you into.

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  2001 BMW X5 - 2005 BMW X5
  By dmsandlin - May 1 - 3:08 pm

  I bought this vehicle used to try it out and I absolutely love it. I hope to buy or lease a new one in the future. I am definitely sold on the BMW X5.

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  Fun to drive - 2005 BMW X5
  By GEORGE - March 24 - 1:55 am

  Very reliable on all terrains, great handling.

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  I love my x5 - 2005 BMW X5
  By lisa palumbo - March 19 - 7:28 pm

  The truck is fun to drive, handles great, very comfortable and has great visibility. It feels strong, and I feel safe in it. The only downfall is the fuel economy. Im always at the gas pump. The onboard computer reads 16.9 mpg, however the floating needle is pinned at 8 mpg every time I accelerate, and levels off around 12. A small price to pay for a great vehicle. I also dont agree with the small cargo coments. There is plenty of room back there.

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  Ive had 3 and this is the best yet - 2005 BMW X5
  By Ken Feingold - March 11 - 5:11 pm

  I have had 3 BMW X 5s in a row My first was a 2000 3 litre which was very good but lacked a bit of punch, I then got the 4.4 litre 2003 which was great but then I upgraded to the 2004 with the full glass roof, the new engine and transmission and it is better. It is great in the snow, handles really well and brakes that way too. The fuel economy is not even good but it is slightly better than my previous 4.4 litre. The premium seats are terrific and the sound system is up to snuff. So who cares if the look is a bit stodgy and could use a real redo. Please BMW dont kill it looks wise like you did my beloved 540i or Ill finally have to go to the competition.

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  New to the BMW - 2002 BMW X5
  By arichard - January 7 - 8:37 am

  I recently bought a used 02 X5 4.4, I wished Id read these articles first. One person said he had problems with the mirror and seat memory -- ditto here. I have wasted time on several trips to the dealer to be told "We cant find a problem." No code found. I cant get a trailer hitch because theyre on back order. I cannot get an aftermarket rear entertainment system because no one has any positive experience getting them put in. However, it is a mechanical beast. It is a jack-up sports car and it moves. Some days I think about getting rid of it but when I clean it up, I like it, and other do too.

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  AVERAGE BMW - 2005 BMW X5
  By sclavette - January 5 - 10:33 pm

  BMW continues not understanding electronics. Problems with GPS, power locks, rear window washer, etc. BMW still only gives cassette option at dash. No wonder their sales are dropping. Third and last BMW.

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  Windows - 2001 BMW X5
  By Daljinder - January 3 - 6:48 pm

  Looks great but I am having a problem with it. 3 of the 4 windows has already stoped working and fixed. The cooling system got all messed up on the highway. I have to get it towed. Water pump, radiator, hoses, builts etc were shot. It cost me over $1800. They are telling me that it has a problem of overheating....what..? It seems that my SUV is in the shop every month. I lost a confidence in the car. Any one having a problem like this or it was just my luck..?

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  Overpriced - 2004 BMW X5
  By jon - December 16 - 3:17 pm

  While BMW is a well-known name in luxury cars, the X5 falls short. Many options have to be added on with a hefty price tag. Some of the options should come standard on such an expensive vehicle. While there are some problems, the BMW is very responsive with handling and acceleration/braking.

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  U-G-L-Y!!! - 2003 BMW X5
  By Snowchica - December 12 - 2:00 am

  My husband *made* me test drive this car because of its reputation, quality and prestige. Ill admit, it drives like a dream. But I cannot see myself driving something so ugly! The car reminds me of one of those old vacuum cleaners with the hose attachment. The front end looks nice, but I hate getting stuck behind one on the road, the ass end is so ugly! If it was prettier, I wouldve definitely bought it. Bought a GORGEOUS (and less expensive, and American made) metallic red Lincoln Aviator instead.