2023 BMW X5

The X5 casts a muscular shadow, which stands in marked contrast to the quiet elegance of the XC90 and the voluptuousness of the GLE-Class. BMW doesn’t shy away from big fender flares and lots of vents and diffusers. Versions touched by the automaker’s M Division go farther, with the full-on X5 M perhaps looking a little too boy-racer for some.

Inside, the X5 is modern but comparatively conservative. A 12.3-inch display perched at the top of the dash is complemented by a similarly-sized instrument cluster. While synthetic leather is standard, real hides are worthwhile to dress things up. BMW offers tons of color and trim combinations, too, so shop wisely before settling on all-black or light gray.

Only the base sDrive40i sends power rearward. Other versions are badged xDrive, which is BMW-speak for all-wheel drive. 

How fast is the BMW X5?

It’s no slouch in any form.

Base 40i models use a 335-hp 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6, which is good for a 0-60 zip of around 5.3 seconds. The 45e supplements that engine with an electric motor and a 17.1-kwh lithium-ion battery pack for a combined output of 389 hp. This setup allows for tailpipe emissions-free commuting for 31 miles, but It’s much heavier than the base X5. Acceleration stays about the same. 

Thrilling performance begins with M50i versions that use a twin-turbo V-8 to hustle 523 hp to the wheels. It slices the 0-60 mph sprint to just over four seconds. X5 M versions amp up their 4.4-liter twin-turbo V-8 to the tune of 600 hp (or 617 hp in Competition form). Look for a 3.5-second rip to 60 mph, which is as fast as many sports cars. 

All models corner with verve, but ride quality stiffens noticeably with wheels larger than the standard 19-inchers. BMW fits run-flat tires across the range, which can result in a firmer ride than you might want. Adaptive dampers help, while the available air suspension smooths things out a bit more. 

When it comes to the X5 M, try before you buy. We find the suspension tuning to be unnecessarily stiff for day-to-day commuting. Sure, it’s a track star, but how many drivers are hooning their 6,000-pound, six-figure SUVs, after all? 

Row two serves up 37.0 inches of legroom and it’s accessed via wide-opening doors. Three abreast is doable, too. We’d pass on the optional third row, which is costly and will be a tight fit for anyone beyond their pre-teen years. 

The split-folding tailgate is a fun touch; the lower portion is small enough that it doesn’t really get in the way when loading up bigger or heavier objects. Cargo space grows from a modest 34.0 cubic feet to more than double that with the middle row folded down.

While automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitors, and automatic high-beam headlights come standard, we’d pony up for the Driving Assistance Professional package for its adaptive cruise control system that allows for limited hands-free driving in certain situations. A surround-view camera system is also available; it’s a good idea since outward vision can be a bit tricky over the rear headrests and chunky roof pillars. 

The X5 is a 9 on our scale. 

Which BMW X5 should I buy?

The base 6-cylinder is a good buy for most shoppers, though drivers who commute within the xDrive45e model’s 31-mile all-electric range (or have the ability to charge at work) may find its $1,800 premium worthwhile.

To the base car, we’d add metallic paint, leather seats, the Premium Package (head-up display, a wireless charging pad, and access to more features), the Driving Assistance Professional Package (adaptive cruise control and other fatigue-reducing features), and perhaps a heated steering wheel and armrests. Such an X5 comes in at about $73,000 with all-wheel drive. 

How much is a fully loaded BMW X5?

The X5 M comes in at $110,000 to start, including its 600-hp engine and a host of luxury and performance features that are optional on other trims. Still, BMW offers lots of customization—for a price. Swankier leather, adaptive cruise control, massaging seats, and the Competition package (a sport exhaust system, staggered 21- and 22-inch wheels, a firmer suspension, and 17 extra hp) will nudge the X5 M to the better part of $130,000.

With rear-wheel drive, the base X5 checks in at 21 mpg city, 26 highway, 23 combined. All-wheel drive rates 21/25/23 mpg.

The X5 xDrive45e can make a lot of sense if your commute is under its 31-mile range on a full charge (or if you can charge it at work.) Left in hybrid mode, it’s rated at just 20 mpg combined, though. 

The M50i, meanwhile, comes in at just 16/22/18 mpg, while the X5 M guzzles at a rate of 15 mpg combined.