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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  My X5 - 2003 BMW X5
  By blince - June 11 - 2:00 am

  I sold a 2000 Mercedes SUV to buy this because I was disappointed with the Benz. The BMW is a much better car in all respects. The only negative is the single cupholder in the front.

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  3.0 X5 - 2002 BMW X5
  By bechic - June 6 - 2:00 am

  Amazing handling and a joy to drive. Drives like a car and hugs the road. Have driven Japanese and American models and this car by far is the best. A bit pricey but worth every penny (for now) until the competition makes a SUV that looks and handles like this X5. Occasional electrical gremlin will show up but so far nothing I can duplicate to get fixed.

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  X5 Let Downs - 2001 BMW X5
  By Don Goldstein - June 4 - 2:00 am

  Problems started from the day of delivery with the rear hatch not closing properly. Then the problems were the as follows Cell Phone "Whine" from BMW $1700 cell phone system, interior material on door handles peeled off , rear hatch door again broken due to faulity switch, in winter the door locks would freeze making closing the door impossible, rubber door seals peeling off of rear door, REAR SEAT BELT JAMMED, WILL NOT RETRACT.

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  It Stinks - 2001 BMW X5
  By Healthguy - May 31 - 2:00 am

  Mine was built on a Friday before Oktoberfest I think. Had nothing but problems as well as several design flaws. Such as:1) Steering wheel electronics subject to shorting.2) Software issue: Mirrors go down in reverse and then dont come up. 3) Back hatch is not a tight fit. 4)The Shades in the back windows latch to a cheap latch that breaks. 5) The Rear neck supports block your rear view mirror. 6) The side mirror are way too small. 7) Ride is lousy with the Sport Package. 8) Known battery issue where in dash CD drains the battery. As well as Engine fan. Bottom line - Worst Vehicle I have had since my 1976 Cutlass.

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  2002 BMW X5 4.6si - 2002 BMW X5
  By alik61 - May 30 - 2:00 am

  The best car I ever driven.

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  Not a real BMW - 2002 BMW X5
  By Daily - May 28 - 2:00 am

  This SUV is ideal for people who prefer fine looks,elevated view of the road and allwheel drive system. but this isnt for BMW or driving enthusiasts because it really isnt a typical BMW. Its also built in America.

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  X5 - 2005 BMW X5
  By Paul Hyland - May 6 - 1:50 am

  Passes everything but a gas station

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  problems only - 2002 BMW X5
  By danieldanko - April 18 - 2:00 am

  I got my x5 3.0 for a 4 months now and went to service for 5 times . First week- check engine light on(bad fuel cap) second visit - same problem plus problems with memory seats (no solution). third visit - check engine light again (bad fuel hose)plus headlights getting foogy (new driver headlight) fouth visit - problems with am radio(no solution still suks!) plus headlights getting foggy again (passenger side) fifth visit next week - temperature in chicago 90 degree and a\c is not working. Dose anybody has the same problems ??? Let me know

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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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  2001 X5 3.0I - 2002 BMW X5
  By jmoriarty - March 6 - 11:52 pm

  Doesnt start on first turn of key about 40% of time. My 20K Honda always starts on first turn. Dealer doesnt recognize problem. Window Shade clips break easy..poor design. 2001 model assumes that casette tapes are in and thus provide storage for them...Car is loaded with features..Navigation system is difficult to turn off(voice) once it is on. Computer infor system loses its brain occasionally requiring user to inout the dates/times,etc. I reported this but BMW cant find the bug......