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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The ultimate urban road warrior ! - 2004 BMW X5
By K Yoder - April 1 - 2:00 amWe bought our X5 because of the sportiness, the safety features, the looks, as well as the interior cabin space. I am fairly tall and the X5 provides ample leg, shoulder and head room, without being much longer or wider than an explorer or a 4runner. It is very fun to drive and is drives like a sportscar!!
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Drivings a pleasure - 2004 BMW X5
By mlnelsen - March 30 - 2:00 amFirst BMW experience. Pros, Handling of the SUV is excellent. Great feel for the road and decent acceleration for a heavy vehicle. Cons, Accelerator pedal has a mushy feel. We were told it is because it is electronically controlled, not physically. Just need to get used to it. It is not one of the positive features of this vehicle.
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Love this car! - 2003 BMW X5
By AScott - March 30 - 2:00 amYou cant go wrong with this SUV I have a 3.0 and it has a lot of get up and go.It feels like a BMW sedan. I highly recomend this Car.
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Great - 2004 BMW X5
By Eduardo - March 27 - 2:00 amPleasure to dirve. We are a BMW family and what we like about them the mostis that they more you dirve, the better it gets.
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All kinds of weather it holds the road. - 2001 BMW X5
By scootrbear - March 23 - 2:00 amIf you live in an area as I do with plenty of snow/rain and steep hills, this is the vehicle for you and your family. My first experience with BMW and it has made me a BMW owner for life.
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Solid Feel - 2001 BMW X5
By bgrand1 - March 21 - 2:00 amWhat a great car. Very responsive and fun to drive. The all-wheel drive system provides very solid manueverability and handling in turns. Both interior and exterior fit and finish are outstanding. My experience with the dealer was also very positive.
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I have had lots of electrical problems - 2004 BMW X5
By Luca Forcellini - March 19 - 2:00 amThe car electrical system has a mind of its own. I have almats crashed twice on the freeway for the wipers stopped in downpoors. The selflevel suspension inactivates on its own, the brake light and rear light and other warning messages constantly flash on computer display. The dealership dismisses problems as burnt bulbs or loose wire. The car is really dangerous and BMW refuses to replace with all kinds of lame excuses. I had a horrible experience with it. I have to sue for a new car!
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ABSOLUTE FUN & CONFIDENT IN X54.41 - 2004 BMW X5
By DIZZYDZ - March 15 - 2:00 amTHIS IS MY 2ND X5.BOTH HAVE BEEN WONDERFUL TO OWN.I LOVE DRIVING IT AROUND.I HAVE USED BOTH ON TRIPS AROUND THE COUNTRY WITHOUT MY HUSBAND( JUST MY YOUNG DAUGHTER WITH ME).HE DID NOT HAVE TO WORRY ABOUT US BECAUSE OF THE QUALITY THATS BUILDT INTO THE BMW. I HAVE OWNED OTHER MODELS OF BMW,S SUCH AS THE 528i TO CONVERTABLES.MY NEXT BMW (THIS MAY) WILL BE THE"Z"CAR.
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My Blue BMW - Just Awesome!!! - 2001 BMW X5
By gregdeir - March 13 - 2:00 amThis SAV is truly a truck wrapped in luxurious clothing. I have thoroughly enjoyed getting to know this vehicle. It has lots of power, a nice stereo system, and quality construction. Would recommend for those who desire to be among the best on the road in any type of weather.
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BEST SUV IVE OWNED - 2001 BMW X5
By GODIVE3 - March 8 - 2:00 amThe 2001 X5 3.0 I own has been the best Suv Ive owned and they include pathfinders, Durangos, Explorers and Escalades. The blend of Size and performance reminds me more of a five series sedan then a SUV. It could use a bit more cargo capacity but I have more then adapted to that. Ride comfort is excellent and the power and handling on the highway are outstanding. I compared the Mercedes, Land Rover and Lexus before purchasing and was more impressed by the Style, price and performance of the X5
