2019 BMW X5

Overview

When the BMW X5 debuted back in 2000, we praised it for its ability to drive like a BMW sports sedan while retaining the space and practicality of an SUV. BMW even created its own marketing buzzword for it: Sports Activity Vehicle. In recent years, the X5 wandered away from that mission, focusing too much on the luxury and practicality and less on the driving dynamics that made the original so appealing. We're happy to report that with the all-new 2019 BMW X5, the brand's popular mid-size SUV has reclaimed much of its driving verve while ratcheting up the luxury and technological advancements a notch or two. It takes the 10Best-award-winning Audi Q7 and the all-new 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE-class head on, and it's bringing a buttery powertrain, a well-equipped cabin, and a capable chassis to the rumble.

What's New for 2019?

The 2019 BMW X5 is all new, replacing the aging 2018 model with a more modern package. For now, the only models offered are the inline-six xDrive40i and V-8–powered xDrive50i, although a diesel and a plug-in hybrid are expected to join the lineup soon. The 2020 BMW X5 lineup adds a new M50i model that has a more powerful V-8 engine and unique exterior upgrades.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

Engine, Transmission, Performance, and Towing

Likes: Two excellent engines, standard all-wheel drive, confident driving dynamics.
Dislikes: Steering isn't as communicative as it could be, diesel and plug-in versions available later.

For now, only two gasoline engines are available. Models wearing the xDrive40i badge are powered by a 335-hp turbocharged inline-six, while xDrive50i models come with a gutsier 456-hp twin-turbocharged V-8. We've tested both models, and the 40i managed a rather quick 4.9-second run to 60 mph; the 50i shaved 0.7 second off that time. Both engines are paired to an eight-speed automatic and all-wheel drive, and neither will leave drivers wanting for power, even in high-speed passing maneuvers or when merging onto the highway. BMW has said a diesel model and a plug-in hybrid are both in the works, and we expect to see those variants at dealerships within the next two years.

The X5's refined ride and stable handling are a big improvement compared with the 2018 model, as is its steering, which feels more connected and direct but still not exactly what we'd consider to be sporting. The Q7 still has the X5 beat in this area, but it's a close match. Pitch the X5 into a fast corner, and it holds on reliably and rewards the driver with a predictability that's missing on the GLE-class. The X5's maximum towing capacity is a stout 7209 pounds and is the same no matter which engine is chosen.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

With the inline-six, the X5 is more efficient than the four-cylinder-powered versions of both the GLE-class and the Q7, according to the EPA. With the V-8, its EPA ratings drop dramatically but still outperform the non-diesel variant of the Land Rover Discovery. However, during our highway fuel-economy testing, both BMW models outperformed their highway ratings: The 40i delivered 28 mpg and the 50i managed 23 mpg, matching the GLE450's result despite two extra cylinders and 127 more horsepower.

Interior, Infotainment, and Cargo

Likes: Nicely styled cabin, tons of tech available, plenty of space for luggage.
Dislikes: Best luxury features cost extra, gimmicky gesture controls for infotainment, no Android Auto capability.

Interior space is generous for adults in both the first and second row, but the X5's optional third row is for kids only. Once settled inside, occupants are treated to a cabin lined with high-quality materials, plenty of charging points for devices, and—depending on the options chosen—a myriad of luxury features. Power-adjustable front seats with memory for the driver are standard. All models come with a power-adjustable steering column, heated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, a power rear liftgate, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and customizable ambient lighting. Massaging seats, remote start, soft-close doors, acoustic glass, a leather dashboard, and heated front armrests and steering wheel make the X5 a true luxury SUV but add a lot of dough to the bottom line. Speaking of expensive options, for $4200 buyers can add a Bowers & Wilkins audio system that features diamond-domed tweeters.

Twin 12.3-inch displays add a contemporary look to the otherwise restrained cockpit. One serves as a digital gauge display—a feature that's becoming increasingly common among luxury automakers—and the other provides access to the infotainment system, which runs the latest version of BMW's iDrive software. Users can control the system using a variety of methods, including gesture controls, which are less intuitive than just touching the screen or using the center-console-mounted rotary knob. Apple CarPlay is standard but requires an annual fee after the first year; Android Auto is suspiciously missing from the options sheet.

The X5 offers plentiful cargo space and with the rear seats in use, we managed to fit 11 of our carry-on suitcases inside its trunk. With the rear seats folded—an operation that can be done from either the side or the rear of the SUV—we found room for 26 cases. The Mercedes matched the X5's result in this test, case for case, but its rear seats aren't as easy to stow.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The 2019 BMW X5 earned the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's highest honor—Top Safety Pick+—but only earned four stars from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. BMW offers basic driver-assistance features as standard, including automated emergency braking, but more advanced features such as a semi-autonomous driving mode are optional. Key safety features include:

• Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
• Standard lane-departure warning
• Standard blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

BMW matches its main rivals Mercedes-Benz and Audi with similar warranty coverage but offers three years or 36,000 miles worth of complimentary scheduled maintenance to sweeten the deal. Volvo buyers also get such a benefit, and the Buick Enclave offers longer powertrain coverage.

• Limited warranty covers 4 years or 50,000 miles
• Powertrain warranty covers 4 years or 50,000 miles
• Complimentary scheduled maintenance is covered for 3 years or 36,000 miles