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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  Fun vs. Frustration - 2003 BMW X5
  By uncbears34 - July 10 - 4:53 pm

  I have owned trucks and SUVs all my life and I have yet to own one that is as much fun to drive as the X5. You pass other drivers like theyre in reverse and it corners and brakes like a BMW should. Its one of the best looking vehicles on the road and no matter how hard you push it, it wants more. However, every other month another sensor or display light would go off or hose will leak or seal break and Id get hit with another $500 bill (at a minimum) to fix something that just shouldnt go wrong (door locks, airbag light, etc.). It was always something. If you have the patience and another vehicle to rely on, its a great car. If its your only car, check your roadside assistance.

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  Great Ride - 2006 BMW X5
  By Ken - June 26 - 7:57 pm

  This is our second BMW, the first was a 328xi, and although this doesnt have the same get up and go it definitely drives better than any other SUV on the market.

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  Even better than I first thought - 2009 BMW X5
  By I Offset - June 18 - 12:39 am

  A brief update on my initial (3/1/09) review of my X5 diesel: Now at 5,025 total miles. Average mpg now 21.1 - even though average speed is only 28.5 mph (most of my driving is urban, much of that on the very hilly streets of San Francisco). Most impressive of all - not one single thing has needed repair or even minor adjusting. This is a first for me. Over the years Ive been fortunate to have only had brand new cars, never used. One VW, one Lexus, five Mercedes, two Range Rovers, and one Toyota. Loved them all in one way or another, but all had needed overnight stays in the shop at least twice or more at this point in their lives. A BMW, made in SC, tops them all - amazing.

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  Good, so far!! - 2005 BMW X5
  By Chris - June 16 - 3:19 pm

  Ive only owned it 1000mi and the car is still under warranty, but so far the car has been excellent. Took it on a long trip and the V8 is so smooth and effortless at speed. The car is rock solid. I will use the car for towing, so the extra weight is helpful, but otherwise the car is actually small for the 5000# weight. Gas mileage has been 19- 20 combined, which Im happy with. Im not sure I would buy this car new (not a great value and high depreciation), but I got a helluva deal because the poor economy and higher gas prices.

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  X5 Turbo Diesel (no 3rd row seating) - 2009 BMW X5
  By Andrew - June 15 - 9:03 am

  Had a 3.0 X5. Test drove Audi, Lexus, Acura, BMW gas, and fell for performance of X5 diesel. After 7,000 miles I am actually trading it in for MB ML350 diesel. BMW just not as comfortable. Seats not as supportive. Engine can be too loud. Satellite radio comes & goes. Passenger seat grinds/clicks when moved. Steering wheel squeaks when moved. Rt side speakers go dead on iPod integration. Need to roll the window up/down a few times to get speakers back. Steering wheel does not telescope long enough for 6-1 height. Engine performance is incredible. Second seat leg room is great. Cargo space is great. Just want more refinement. Maybe I am getting old.

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  X5 Forever - 2003 BMW X5
  By Beacon - June 11 - 10:00 am

  Great ride and drive!

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  Vermillion Red-Liner - 2009 BMW X5
  By AIA - June 10 - 7:14 am

  Bought a 09 Vermillion Red X5. These are rare and had to be custom ordered. I have owned X5s in the past and this is a great vehicle. It is fun to drive and handles great like a true BMW even though its a heavy vehicle. It has all the options imaginable. Gas mileage is great for such a beast.

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  2009 BMW X5 4.8i - 2009 BMW X5
  By Michael Biggs - June 9 - 4:00 am

  The x5 is a great car, it has not broken down once. I am amazed it can do over 161 mph. It also has an amazing crash test rating.

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  Very fun to drive, sucks gas - 2009 BMW X5
  By Brett 4.8i - June 5 - 3:11 am

  I got my X5 less than a week ago and I love it. I saw the 2010 iDrive on a couple of other BMW models. I became afraid that I bought too soon before the 2010s came out. Hey this car handles awesome and is super comfortable. The fat wheel looks burly. I like the electronics and computer stuff. Sound system is way better than I expected, and I am a picky guy. Im tired of Mercedes Benz and the way they treated me. When I got the X5 my blackberry connected easily with the bluetooth. With Mercedes, blue tooth only worked with Motorola and Verizon. That stinks, they went out of their way to make things more expensive and harder. BMW beats Mercedes in handling and steering in my book. Bye bye BENZ.

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  No competition! - 2003 BMW X5
  By MTodd - May 27 - 7:17 pm

  My X5 4.4i is the best of 20 cars I have owned! It pulls my wakeboard boat with ease and looks great doing it. The cold weather pkg even finds it uses in the summer (heated seats on cold lake nights)! This SUV drives and rides like a car, any my friends with Tahoes and Armadas get jealous after driving it. Doesnt have the most storage in the back, but enough to take camping and haul the kids (and their stuff) around. It has been a pure pleasure to own and to drive. I look forward to upgrading to new 2007+ body style and the third row seat for the kids friends. I have never met another X5 owner who did not love their car. So, go get one already. :)