4 Star Reviews for 2003 BMW X5

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.56/5 Average
234 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

This year, BMW will finally offer a DVD-based navigation system, though you must still give up the in-dash CD player if you opt for nav. Besides that, rear head protection airbags (optional last year) are now standard, as is an interesting new safety item called a brakeforce display -- during emergency braking situations, an extra set of rear brake lights will illuminate to warn motorists behind you. If you order the optional adjustable ride height suspension package, it no longer precludes the addition of the sport package. On the inside, new Dakota leather replaces the familiar Montana leather upholstery (it's optional on the 3.0i model and standard on the 4.4i). Individual model changes include a body-colored tailgate handle for any 3.0i equipped with the sport or premium package, and V-rated tires and an unlimited top speed for any sport package-equipped 4.4i.

Pros:
  • Rides and drives like a BMW sedan, wide range of engine choices, top safety scores, high-end cabin furnishings.
Cons:
  • Limited off-road abilities, less interior volume than a 5 Series wagon, price goes up quickly with options, lousy fuel economy in the city.

User Reviews:

Showing 21 through 30 of 234.00
  • Fun to Drive - 2003 BMW X5
    By -

    I have a 2001 4.4 and have thoroughly enjoyed this car but have had reliability and feature problems (mis- marketing of towing feature, horrific cup holders...). The acceleration, braking and overall handling are similar to a sports car. I describe the vehicle as an SUV sports car. I tried out many SUVs and none compared in handling and power to the X5. We are sadly selling the X5 (see below). We bought an H2.

  • A great used SUV bargain - 2003 BMW X5
    By -

    I purchased a 2003 X5 3.0 Sport for my wife last March with 41,000 miles and all options except for cold weather pkg. In the 14000 miles since then we have received excellent service from the dealership and aside from replacing the OEM Michelin tires with Kuhmos and replacing the battery the vehicle has been flawless, safe, quiet, and rattle-free. Insist on service records and if you can buy the extended maintenence package (3 year 50k including all services, oil changes, and brakes) for $1000 like we did you should be in the clear.

  • BMW X5 UNRELIABLE - 2003 BMW X5
    By -

    THIS IS THE NINTH BMW THAT I HAVE PURCHASED.ALTHOUGH BMW HAS A GOOD WARRANTY,THE VEHICLE SPENDS TO MUCH TIME NEEDING IT. MY VEHICLE HAS 36,000 MILES ON IT AND HAS HAD THE FOLLOWING PROBLEMS.BOTH STEERING CONTROLL ARMS REPLACED,BRAKE PEDAL ALMOST FELL OFF,NINE BURNT OUT HEADLIGHTS/FOGLAMPS, WHICH ARE TIME CONSUMING TO CHANGE.ELECTRICAL BURNING SMELLS ETC..WILL MOST LIKELY NOT PURCHASE ANOTHER X5

  • Happy New Owner - 2003 BMW X5
    By -

    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.

  • U-G-L-Y!!! - 2003 BMW X5
    By -

    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.

  • X5 - 2003 BMW X5
    By -

    I have had my 3.0 X5 for 6 months, and had the ability to drive it under a number of different conditions. Handles well in the snow, and rain. Excellent dry pavment handling. Motor is very flexible, and has sufficient "kick". I have not driven it off road so no opinion regarding this. Build quality was excellent. Buying experience excellent with local dealership

  • Exceeds my expectations - 2003 BMW X5
    By -

    Awkward ergonomics compared to Lexus...but thats no suprise. Superior handeling to any Lexus Ive leased (LS 400, GS300 & SC430). More solid build than Lexus. As comfortable to drive as Lexus and Mercedes. Most stylish and sophisticated SUV (Cayenne & Mercedes SUVs close 2nd). Awkward & noisy A/C. Worse-than-average SUV fuel consumption. Amazing acceleration. Excellent sound system, although quirky controls. DVD Nav is inferior to Lexus DVD Nav. Smaller cargo room doesnt bother me...and Im an interior designer. Always get compliments on its styling.

  • BMW X5 The best Off Roader - on the road - 2003 BMW X5
    By -

    Wanted : towing vehicle for a 2.5t boat trailer and a comfortable 4 wheel drive to go to the ski slopes. Off road performance was of no interest but handling on tarmac roads vital. Its perfect. Grip & handling are superb and its very quiet and refined at speed. For me, no other SUV comes close. If I needed off-road performance, a Range Rovers best

  • A good 4WD and fun to drive - 2003 BMW X5
    By -

    I enjoy driving my X5 because of its overall good performance and handling capacities. However, the negatives are: noisy interiorly the engine is very thirsty limited luggage area and poor design of the cup holders.

  • Love this SUV - 2003 BMW X5
    By -

    This SUV doesnt ride like a SUV. It has a comfortable ride. We have a few different friends with different SUVs and they all agree ours rides the best and also has great pick-up. It is manuverable. We only had one minor problem in the past 8 months with it. The rear window arm broke and we had it replaced. Other than that, its been great.

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