Uploaded December 2024 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
Full length video: youtu.be/ZuiLgBJXPx0?si=LjrNsa8rMySAMWr5
In recent years, BMW's standard models have given up some of the brand's driving verve in favor of a more luxurious and tech-forward experience. That includes the mid-size X5 SUV. The X5 is offered with either a turbo inline-six, a twin-turbo V-8, or a plug-in hybrid powertrain, all of which provide plentiful power and impressive straight-line performance. The X5's handling is playful although not as sporty as rivals such as the Porsche Cayenne, and its ride is pleasant but not as plush as the Genesis GV80's. Where the BMW impresses most is in its technology offerings, which include a cutting-edge infotainment system with a cool-looking curved dashboard display. Driver-assistance features are also offered, and the optional Highway Assist feature allows for hands-free driving on long highway slogs. Overall, the X5 is a satisfying luxury SUV that's handsomely appointed and pleasant to drive. For something with a more style, consider the fastback X6 or, for serious power and performance, there's the X5 M—both reviewed separately.
What's New for 2025?
A lane-change assist feature is new to the X5 for 2025. Coupled with the optional Highway Assist hands-free driving feature, the lane-change assist system allows the driver to confirm a lane-change suggested by the X5 by simply turning their eyes toward the corresponding rear-view mirror. Once the system detects the driver's confirmation, it performs the maneuver. Pretty cool on paper. When we get to drive an X5 with this setup, we'll let you know how it works in the real world. Otherwise, the X5 carries over from 2024 without any other changes.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
The price of the 2025 BMW X5 starts at $66,875 and goes up to $91,175 depending on the trim and options.
sDrive40i $66,875, xDrive40i $69,175, xDrive50e $74,275, M60i $91,175, 0$50k$100k$150k
The base trim sDrive40i level is rear-wheel drive, but the xDrive40i, xDrive50e, and xDrive M60i models all have all-wheel drive as standard. We love saving money almost as much as we love great performance, and that's why we think the xDrive40i is the X5 to buy. It's got sports-sedan acceleration, comes with all-wheel drive, and is a relative bargain in this pricey class. We'd recommend adding the Premium package for its head-up display, LED exterior lighting, remote engine-start capability, and Harman/Kardon stereo system.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The 2025 X5 is offered with one of three distinct powertrains, each associated with a different model. X5s wearing the sDrive40i or xDrive40i badges are powered by a sweetly sonorous 375-hp turbocharged inline-six that overachieves in any model BMW drops it into. The plug-in hybrid xDrive50e comes with a turbocharged inline-six and an electric motor that combines for 483 horsepower. Last but not least, the M60i's got a 523-hp twin-turbo V-8. All three powertrains are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, and none of them will leave drivers wanting for power in virtually any driving situation. The X5's refined ride and stable handling are hallmarks of this generation of BMW SUVs, as is its steering, which feels connected and direct. The Audi Q7 still has the X5 beat in this area, but it's a close match now. Pitch the X5 into a fast corner, and it holds on reliably and rewards the driver with a predictability that's missing from the Mercedes-Benz GLE-class.
caranddriver.com/bmw/x5
Full length video: youtu.be/ZuiLgBJXPx0?si=LjrNsa8rMySAMWr5
In recent years, BMW's standard models have given up some of the brand's driving verve in favor of a more luxurious and tech-forward experience. That includes the mid-size X5 SUV. The X5 is offered with either a turbo inline-six, a twin-turbo V-8, or a plug-in hybrid powertrain, all of which provide plentiful power and impressive straight-line performance. The X5's handling is playful although not as sporty as rivals such as the Porsche Cayenne, and its ride is pleasant but not as plush as the Genesis GV80's. Where the BMW impresses most is in its technology offerings, which include a cutting-edge infotainment system with a cool-looking curved dashboard display. Driver-assistance features are also offered, and the optional Highway Assist feature allows for hands-free driving on long highway slogs. Overall, the X5 is a satisfying luxury SUV that's handsomely appointed and pleasant to drive. For something with a more style, consider the fastback X6 or, for serious power and performance, there's the X5 M—both reviewed separately.
What's New for 2025?
A lane-change assist feature is new to the X5 for 2025. Coupled with the optional Highway Assist hands-free driving feature, the lane-change assist system allows the driver to confirm a lane-change suggested by the X5 by simply turning their eyes toward the corresponding rear-view mirror. Once the system detects the driver's confirmation, it performs the maneuver. Pretty cool on paper. When we get to drive an X5 with this setup, we'll let you know how it works in the real world. Otherwise, the X5 carries over from 2024 without any other changes.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
The price of the 2025 BMW X5 starts at $66,875 and goes up to $91,175 depending on the trim and options.
sDrive40i $66,875, xDrive40i $69,175, xDrive50e $74,275, M60i $91,175, 0$50k$100k$150k
The base trim sDrive40i level is rear-wheel drive, but the xDrive40i, xDrive50e, and xDrive M60i models all have all-wheel drive as standard. We love saving money almost as much as we love great performance, and that's why we think the xDrive40i is the X5 to buy. It's got sports-sedan acceleration, comes with all-wheel drive, and is a relative bargain in this pricey class. We'd recommend adding the Premium package for its head-up display, LED exterior lighting, remote engine-start capability, and Harman/Kardon stereo system.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The 2025 X5 is offered with one of three distinct powertrains, each associated with a different model. X5s wearing the sDrive40i or xDrive40i badges are powered by a sweetly sonorous 375-hp turbocharged inline-six that overachieves in any model BMW drops it into. The plug-in hybrid xDrive50e comes with a turbocharged inline-six and an electric motor that combines for 483 horsepower. Last but not least, the M60i's got a 523-hp twin-turbo V-8. All three powertrains are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, and none of them will leave drivers wanting for power in virtually any driving situation. The X5's refined ride and stable handling are hallmarks of this generation of BMW SUVs, as is its steering, which feels connected and direct. The Audi Q7 still has the X5 beat in this area, but it's a close match now. Pitch the X5 into a fast corner, and it holds on reliably and rewards the driver with a predictability that's missing from the Mercedes-Benz GLE-class.
caranddriver.com/bmw/x5
