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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  X-5 4.4i - 2001 BMW X5
  By Addy - April 17 - 2:00 am

  I have had the X-5 for 2 months and the driver side window had to be repaired. The coolant warning keeps coming up although the BMW dealership says there is nothing wrong. Also had to get knob for the radio controls changed. Car is still under warranty so was covered for everything. Will probably get anxious when the warranty runs out in a couple of months.

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  Imitated but not yet duplicated! - 2004 BMW X5
  By BMW LOVER - April 16 - 2:00 am

  For the $$, you get, "the smile factor". It gives you peep, comfort, safety and surefootedness in the snow AND the rain! Most of all it SCREAMS success without "trying too hard!" (Porsche, H2 and ML & G class drivers can relate.) The Range Rover is successful today BECAUSE it was REDESIGNED by BMW. Asked any BMW X5 driver and very few will complain about the practicality it lacks. X5 drivers like it because its prestigious, fast, luxurious and a blast to drive! Newer SUVs today offer nothing more but increase horsepower! Like I said, imitated but still not yet duplicated!

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  Shop - 2005 BMW X5
  By Tom Reeder - April 15 - 5:46 pm

  Love driving the vehicle, looks assume, but its in the shop too much. Several trips needed to repair same problem. Have had it in shop way more then my plan Jane Chrysler mini-van. It becomes a pain after taking to shop more then twice for same item. Oh, did I mention its been to the shop too often? German excellence, not so sure, but it looks good.

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  Take A Very, Very Long Test Drive ! - 2004 BMW X5
  By Morgan Financial - April 13 - 2:00 am

  Horrible ride. The suspension system on this vehicle needs to be re- designed. You will feel every bump in the road from your toes up to your jaw! The back storage area is small. Also, the back seats are very cramped regarding leg room - perhaps o.k. for children and pets, but completely uncomfortable for adults. We could not get rid of this car fast enough !

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  BMW X5 4.4 - 2004 BMW X5
  By alanmg - April 12 - 2:00 am

  Ive now covered 5500 miles, with no problems, other than moisture appearing in the parking lights. After driving a 2000 528IA sedan for 3 years, I wasnt sure how Id feel about the switch to this SUV. After 3 days behind the wheel I was sold, and will probably never go back to a sedan again. This handles and rides like a BMW, but offers the typical function SUVs offer. Its luxurious, yet tasteful and not overdone

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  one of the best machine - 2004 BMW X5
  By buk - April 12 - 2:00 am

  the X5 is a very advance suv compare to other brand is the most luxirious car and best perfomance in quality

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  I LOVE THIS CAR!!!! - 2004 BMW X5
  By Blondie01324 - April 12 - 2:00 am

  I think this car is the best car built!!! It is a perfect family car yet still has that sporty look to it. It is a perfect road trip car just pile a bunch of people into it and your set to drive for hours. If your planning on buying this car DO IT!!!! It is the greatest thing.

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  Look No More - 2002 BMW X5
  By CLee - April 10 - 2:00 am

  After two years, I know we made the right decision. I only wished that we decided to purchase the X5 in lieu of the M CLass first. If you are looking for a SUV with performance and looks in one package, the X5 is the only one for you. If you are serious on buying the X5, dig a little more in your pocket and get the 4.4L since it offers more punch and standard equipment. If you add all the standards on the 4.4 compared to the options in the 3.0 for the same car, you will see that it is only a bit more. Believe me,you will not be disappointed!!! Happy driving!!!

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  Get one - 2004 BMW X5
  By MJK - April 9 - 2:00 am

  Handles better than most family sedans, high quality materials in and out, costs a little more than similar suvs but worth it.

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  My 2nd BMW, 1st X5 - 2004 BMW X5
  By Bigjim - April 3 - 2:00 am

  Happy I waited for the improved new 4.4 engine, X-drive system and 6 speed auto transmission. Gas mileage has been a very pleasant surprise at average 19 mpg in the city and 22-24 mpg on the highway.