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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  2002 X5 with 26000 miles - 2003 BMW X5
  By jamsk - July 6 - 2:00 am

  My third BMW. The last was a 528i. The X5 3.0 offers BMW handling and ride with the attributes of an SUV. Plenty of power, reasonable Highway mileage (20) no need for a larger engine. I love it except for the seats being too hard and get uncomfortable over the long haul.

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  Too Many Defects - 2001 BMW X5
  By bcoomer - June 16 - 2:00 am

  Certified Preowned with 24k miles. Over 3 months we had over 15 different problems & took it in for repairs 6 times. From break problems to false airbags lights to buzzing under the dash to CD door sticking to loose driver side mirror they never could tighten even after installing a brand new kit. The dealership finally bought the car back from us.

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  need better relibility - 2001 BMW X5
  By bruno1 - May 31 - 2:00 am

  transmission went out at 29000, no reverse, many other little problems, back hatch sticks, park distance control 2 times replaced sensors, now have some awfully squeaking sound. Love the way the car drives but lacks reliability.

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  BMW X5 4.4 - 2001 BMW X5
  By mdratliff - May 25 - 2:00 am

  The 2001 BMW X5 supports BMWs mantra of performance. My vehicle performs as well as some sports cars (4.4 & sports package required) and provides excellent acceleration. I am disappointed in the vehicle quality (radiator crack) along with numerous computer/electronic failures (engine, transmission, fuel gauge, CD player,etc) requiring unnecessary trips to the local dealer. In the three years of leasing the vehicle, I have had the vehicle towed three times (all between 15K - 28K miles). My expectation for a $60,000 vehicle are much higher than a $30K vehicle and will purchase a Lexus or Infiti vehicle next.

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  Awesome SUV, but Quality SUCKS - 2001 BMW X5
  By Davil - May 22 - 2:00 am

  Dear BMW, Please build your next X5 line with two major changes: 1: Do something about the terrible build quality. I have owned mine for almost 3 years now, and its been in the shop about once every 2 months (or more often) the whole time. The worst incident was when it took your dealerships repair folks THREE separate attempts to fix my leaking radiator expansion tank (and I may be about to make a 4th trip to get it fixed AGAIN). 2: Make the damn thing 6 inches longer, and put all the extra space in the cargo area (and btw, offer a 3rd row seat while youre at it).

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  X5 - 2003 BMW X5
  By JASJASJAS - May 20 - 10:00 am

  BMW made a whole bunch of "goofs" on thsi vehicle. The X5 only confortably seat 4, because the middle seat in the back has all of its comfort taken away by the petruding centercolsole in teh front. Still, trunk space is extremely limited.

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  Awesome to drive, but build quality sux - 2001 BMW X5
  By Davil2u - May 18 - 2:00 am

  I love this car. It is without question the most fun SUV to drive on the market. If youve driven a Ford Expedition or the like, take an X5 for a test drive. If you are driving enthusiast, youll never want to drive anything else. The handling is amazing in a vehicle of this type and weight. That being said, it leaves a lot to be desired in terms of build quality. Or let me just say that BMW X5 build quality can be summed up in two words: it sucks. If you buy a new one, do yourself a favor and get the longest extended warranty you can (100k miles, I believe)... thats assuming you plan to keep it that long.

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  Good overall after 1.5 years - 2002 BMW X5
  By BRJoll99 - May 18 - 2:00 am

  Ive driven my 3.0 for 21,000 miles and have had a good experience thus far. Major complaints are the software glitches (fixed at 15k service), terrible cup holder location, various squeeks and rattles. The biggest disappointment is the squeeks and rattles. One in the back cargo area and one in the CD cover shield when down (leave up all the time now). If I wanted to deal with quality issues such as this I would have bought a GM or Ford. This has been a big disappointment.

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  Xtremely Fun - 2003 BMW X5
  By jimmyjames888 - May 13 - 10:00 am

  They made me an offer I could not refuse. Redesign for 2004 is blowing these out the door. The 4.4 is the only way to go unless you are just looking for a "mommy mobile". Still, wish I had gone with the 4.6 but another $10K, ridiculous. A friend got the ML500, turned down my offer to race. The ML500 left him on the side of the road in Athens, GA with a busted radiator hose. Brand new car. I will not own a car that leaves me on the side of the road. Mercedes should be ashamed. If you want a performance german car or SUV, buy BMW. If you want a gimmicky pile of mush, buy a MB. Our 4th BMW in 9 years and they just keep getting better.

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  An out performed vehicle with poor rest - 2001 BMW X5
  By Bliu - May 10 - 2:00 am

  Its performance is rated at best compare to the other cars Ive driven. The handling is awsome. Its a beautiful car from the outside, but terrible from the inside. There are lack of gadgets and toys compare to the Japanese vehicles. However, since I bought this car, I had to take a day off work at least once every other months to take it back to the dealership for service. My window broke 3 times. It doesnt roll up and down. The light gets burned out. The fuse burned out. I can give you a long list, but you get the idea. So if you are willing to deal with the problems just so that you can have an out performed car, than this car is for you.