2024 BMW X5

Inside marks a much bigger change, with a horizontal theme stretching open the cockpit. Like other new BMWs, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and 14.9-inch touchscreen curve under a single pane glass toward the driver. Most of the climate control buttons migrate into the touchscreen, leaving only a tiny band of controls for the hazards, defrosters, and volume knob. Slim center vents sit in between the touchscreen and climate bar, jutting out as the rest of the central dash recedes to the corners and underscored by a light bar. A controller dial and drive mode buttons remain in the console, which now has a pushbutton gear selector instead of a lever. 

How fast is the BMW X5?

It starts off quickly then launches into the M range. The base X5 sDrive40i and its xDrive all-wheel-drive variant sport a revised turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 rated at 375 hp and 398 lb-ft of torque, abetted by a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. The mild hybrid is unnoticeable until coasting in Eco mode, when it takes over in silence and gives the engine a rest. It also helps boost power off the line and through the power band, shaving one second off last year’s 0-60 mph time to 5.2 seconds. 

Paddle shifters let you pretend you’re smarter and quicker than the 8-speed automatic, and maybe it could be during uphill passing when a three-gear downshift is in order; 99% of the time, the 8-speed is a seamless zipper as understated as the mild-hybrid parts. 

The 8-speed and mild-hybrid apply to the M60i xDrive, formerly known as the M50i. The twin-turbo 4.4-liter V-8 makes 523 hp and 553 lb-ft, and it hits 60 mph in 4.2 seconds. This M-lite might be all the BMW X5 performance desired while still having a ride pliant enough for long distance cruising, unlike the kidney-punishing X5 M models. 

The X5 M Competition gets the mild-hybrid system for the first time in any BMW M, and with the twin-turbo V-8 it makes 617 hp. It rears back on launch to sprint to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds. Top speed is 155 mph, but the available M Driver’s Package hits 177 mph. For a utility vehicle weighing 5,498 pounds, better test those limits on the track only or the widest, most uncrowded slice of Autobahn. 

Or the X5 can also be used as a workhorse, towing up to 7,200 pounds (the xDrive50e PHEV tows up to 5,952 pounds), which is one of the highest ratings for a midsize crossover SUV. 

2024 X5 xDrive50e plug-in hybrid updates

The X5 xDrive50e plug-in hybrid also receives critical updates. A larger 25.7-kwh battery pack helps bump the electric range by 8 miles to 39 miles total, which should satisfy most daily commuters in EV power only. The new inline-6 used in other models embraces greater efficiency with a new injection system and improved exhaust components, while a new synchronous motor increases output by 83 horsepower. Together, the powertrain produces 483 hp and 516 lb-ft, resulting in a 0-60 mph time of 4.6 seconds. Additionally, at a max charge rate of 7.4 kw on a 240-volt connection, the xDrive50e can charge to full in three hours and 15 minutes. 

Driving impressions to come on the plug-in hybrid. 

2024 BMW X5 ride and handling

All models corner with verve, thanks in part to standard independent suspensions and adaptive dampers, but ride quality stiffens noticeably with wheels larger than the standard 20-inchers. The run-flat tires across the range also add some firmness. The available air suspension makes for a worthwhile upgrade to cushion the X5 from road sores, as well as raise the ground clearance for the occasional off-road jaunt or lower it for better efficiency. 

The X5 M is no performance whim. With its active roll bars and Michelin Pilot Sport 4S summer tires, the X5 M feels as if it shrinks the SUV down to a hatchback, but in everyday driving the suspension tuning can be unnecessarily stiff.

The synthetic leather upholstery looks like the real thing, or for $1,950 you can opt for leather in shades ranging from white to caramel. Open-pore wood trim accents the dash, or three other wood trims are optional at no cost. The supportive front seats with power lumbar support can be upgraded with massagers. 

In back, the tailgate opens in two parts, with a small part about six inches tall opening up from the floor to prevent items such as a watermelon from rolling out. It can also be folded out to make for a tailgate seat extending far enough over the bumper to not sully your leggings.

Standard driver-assist features include automatic emergency braking, active lane control, blind-spot monitors, automatic high beams, a driver attention monitor, and automatic reverse parking that can back the SUV out of a tight spot without the driver in the vehicle. 

Adaptive cruise control costs extra as part of the $2,100 Driving Assistance Professional package that allows for limited hands-free driving in certain situations. An available surround-view camera system helps see over the rear headrests and beyond the chunky roof pillars.

Which BMW X5 should I buy?

The base turbo-6 has plenty of power and plenty of features, though we might be tempted to add leather seats and the Driving Assistance package mentioned above for adaptive cruise control. That keeps the price at about $68,000. 

For X5 intenders who log mostly local miles, consider the xDrive50e plug-in hybrid for $5,000 more to $73,495. In addition to the increased range, it has a comforting air suspension. 

How much is a fully loaded BMW X5?

The 2024 X5 M Competition tops the performance and price charts at $123,295. It adds nicer leather, adaptive cruise control, massaging seats, a sport exhaust system, staggered 21- and 22-inch wheels, and a suspension so firm it might exceed its need. Consider the M60i for $90,295.

The M60i drops to a 17/22/19-mpg slash line, and the X5 M Competition gets 13/18/15 mpg. The X5 plug-in hybrid has not been certified yet, but BMW estimates it has an electric range of up to 39 miles, and the equivalent of 58 mpg combined. 

Premium fuel is recommended on every X5.