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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  Im In Love - 2001 BMW X5
  By mom68 - May 13 - 2:52 pm

  We just bought this BMW, which is our first jump from Volvo into any other vehicle in over 15 years. We were blown away by the performance of the engine, the luxury of the interior and how an SUV (dont care if BMW calls it an SAV or not, its still an SUV) actually handles like a car. God willing, were going to remain BMW owners for a long time. We bought an extended warranty at the dealer, as weve read here at Edmunds that repairs can become an issue. If you find a good used one like we did our pristine "new" x5, buy it. Im blown away each time I get in the car at how well its made. Even down to the alarm key. We loved BMW so much, we ran out and bought a 740i for the husband the next weekend.

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  Great SUV - 2005 BMW X5
  By tom - May 10 - 10:09 pm

  This is my first BMW X5 that we purchased and we absolutely love this car. The handling of the car on the road is just pure fun. The car sticks to the road like clue. Beautiful interior design and the seats are very comfortable. The interior is much better then the MDX we drove before this X5. Fuel economy is not great, but then its an SUV and not a hybrid. If your looking for a ride with some zip and fun, the X5 fits the bill thats for sure. I absolutely love this car!

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  X5, the best until the X7 might beat it? - 2017 BMW X5
  By Brickey Suggs - May 6 - 11:29 am

  save your money then enjoy it on this extremely safe and exhilirating vehicle

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  Two 4.8 X5s in the garage - 2008 BMW X5
  By BMW fan - May 3 - 7:44 am

  Switched from my 06 750i to a loaded 08 4.8 X5 primarily to carry more loads (dogs and stuff) to our second home. We now have 2 4.8 X5s - an 07 and 08, both loaded. Great performance, not as smooth as the 750, a bit more choppy but still great for a long journey. Engine noise more noticeable, but this is an SUV and not a sedan. The big tires on the performance package have plenty of grip, huge cross section, work well in the rain (unlike the MB GL550), although theres some tire noise. We switch to snow tires in the winter and the noise disappears. Interior and equipment are great, driver sits higher than the 750 but the car is just as chuckable, with no body roll.

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  Great SUV - 2008 BMW X5
  By kg - April 30 - 9:54 am

  This is a great family vehicle. It has the get up and go that you would expect from a sports car, the luxury you would expect from a Lexus and the utility you would expect from a small truck. All in all it is just a great vehicle.

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  My Favorite SUV - 2008 BMW X5
  By Lisa - April 28 - 8:06 am

  This is my 3rd x5. The other 2 had the 4.4 engine and this has the 4.8. I love this truck. We also have the BMW 645 convertable. My husband and I like the x5 better. It is fast, handles like a sports car, never been in the shop for any repairs. It is alot of fun to drive. It has all the bells and whistles and is great on long trips. very comfortable for everyone. I even like the looks. I plan on getting another one when the lease is over or maybe Ill get the x 6. I recomend it to everyone. It sucks gas like most SUVs.

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  WOW! 4.8 is amazing - 2008 BMW X5
  By bpseattle - April 27 - 8:10 pm

  I have owned many makes and models of european cars and this SUV got me to switch from sedan owner to SUV owner. The 8 cylinder is a blast to drive and has a very solid feel. The iDrive is very easy to use and fairy intuitive. If you can afford the extra $$$ buy the 4.8 you will not regret it.

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  Fun ride, electronic nightmare - 2008 BMW X5
  By SDR - April 23 - 5:10 pm

  This is my second X5. I absolutely love the way this car handles on the road. It is definitely a fun vehicle to drive, however, Ive had numerous issues with the electronics in the 2007 model which I did not experience in the 2004 X5.

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  Fantastic Vehicle - 2008 BMW X5
  By lisaann525 - April 19 - 9:19 am

  I seriously love this car. I traded in my QX56 because I was tired of how big and bulky it was and I was tired of not being able to see around the vehicle while driving. I was looking at larger vehicles and drove the BMW on a whim. I am so glad. We ended up ordering one loaded up. If you need the utility of a sport utility but you miss driving a sporty car, this is the vehicle for you. And I drove many, many vehicles. The only vehicle that compared was the Mercedes GL550, and it didnt have every feature I wanted and I felt like an old lady in it.

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  2003 BMW X5 - 2003 BMW X5
  By autooracle - April 18 - 1:03 pm

  Great car. Just normal wear and tear maintenenace issues. Handling is great. Yes its an SUV, not a Porsche. Fuel economy is fine for what it is. Performance out of the 3.0 is all you would need unless you are towing.