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 Repair Experience - 2004 BMW X5
  By Kalli - March 7 - 2:00 am

  Love this SUVs styling. However it has been in the shop 7 times in 8 months for things like: broken fuel pump, transmission reservoir came unsealed , brake line reservoir broke , brake calipers malfunctioned ( twice for this includuing a week for them to figure it out), remote key access unreliable, DELIVERED with broken washer pump . Every fluid reservoir and pump has ben replaced as well as brkae calipers. I had less visits with my Ford Windstar. I am tired of hearing about its high performance and weight. This was poorly built and BMW of North America is invloved. I am sure not all X5s are like this, but have patience if you buy one.

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  Knifemans X5 - 2001 BMW X5
  By Knifeman - March 5 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle is the smoothest road car we have ever owned. It is far superior to anything designed in Detroit. I am considering buying a second to use on my daily commute. Fuel mileage is not as good as I wish it was, but comfort and reliability make up for this slight weakness. The car is a bit expensive to maintain, but we are very happy with it.

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  nice truck - 2004 BMW X5
  By troydcav - March 5 - 2:00 am

  all around winner. if you dont care anout gas mileage opt for 4.4 engine

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  Great car - 2001 BMW X5
  By CDF - March 2 - 2:00 am

  The only issue we have had with this suv is that the bulbs blow every other month in the front headlights (not Xenon). The dealer replaces them with no problem - just drive up and theyll come outand pop in new bulbs. Other than that, it is a great car.

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  BMW X5 "Pinto in a 3 piece suit" - 2001 BMW X5
  By av8r07 - February 29 - 2:00 am

  What do you get from BMWs latest 50K+ SUV? I think of it as a Pinto in a 3 piece suit. Looks great, fun to drive but an absolute junker in terms of quality and reliability, not to mention some of the worste customer service I have ever experienced. BMW USA has proven to be horrible in terms of customer service and apparently have no problem leaving thier customers literally out in the cold. If your looking to drop 50K on an SUV dont

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  Experience with BMW X-5 - 2000 BMW X5
  By bjam - February 25 - 2:00 am

  In 4 years and 49000 miles this car has been in the shop for a repair just twice, both under warranty. The car is as tight and fun to drive as the day I bought it. I never keep cars after the warranty has expired, but in this case I am making an exception. I cant find another car I like any better, and it is so good I figure maybe to save a little money and stay with it for another year or so.

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  I love the car! - 2004 BMW X5
  By Rebeka - February 25 - 2:00 am

  I changed my ML 320 to an X5 and Im happy I did. The X5 is fun to drive and has a very sporty feel to it. Everything is easily accessable. Overall, I am very happy with the car.

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  CPO 2001 X5 for the wife - 2001 BMW X5
  By swsms - February 24 - 2:00 am

  Bought it for Valentines Day and she loves it!! A little rougher ride coming from a 97 Acura RL but the handling, acceleration, and sound system are awesome. This is the only SUV my wife liked that doesnt make her feel like soccor mom! So far, Ive just noticed a rattle in the drivers door and in the rear climate control unit, but overall I am inpressed with the solid feel of the X5. Weve test driven multiple MDXs and have not felt as secure. With the CPO warranty and lots of prayer, I hope to limit my trips to the dealer for service.

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  The best car ever - 2004 BMW X5
  By Johnny Walker - February 24 - 2:00 am

  The X5 is an exceptional SUV. It has great handeling in any conditions. It also has great pick up. I find that it is very confertable and the heated seats and steering wheel are heavenly.

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  I would buy another - 2005 BMW X5
  By smith and jones - February 24 - 12:46 am

  No problems whatsoever. It handles like a sedan and manuvers extremely well. It is comfortable and suitable for long road trips.