Overview

The BMW X5 has been on sale since 1999 and what started out as a niche seller in the BMW catalogue is now very much in the mainstream. What was originally derided for being neither a ‘proper’ BMW nor a ‘proper’ off-roader is now one of the finest full-sized SUVs money can buy, offered with a variety of hybrid drivetrains.

This fourth-generation model was first launched in 2019 but has benefitted from numerous updates to keep it at the top of its game ahead of talented rivals. Competition from other great SUVs like the Audi Q7, Volvo XC90, Mercedes-Benz GLE, Range Rover Sport and Porsche Cayenne means the BMW has to work even harder to offer all things to all drivers. Even more so these days when cheaper cars such as the Volkswagen Touareg offer a similar set of skills for less cash. 

Standing out from the crowd, all of the X5’s motors have six cylinders whether you pick the most powerful quad-turbo M50d, the refined and powerful xDrive40i petrol, or the bestselling xDrive30d diesel. There is also a very handy plug-in hybrid, the latest BMW X5 45e.

There are two trim choices but BMW says 80% of customers will ignore xLine and pick M Sport – gaining 20-inch alloys, an M Sport bodykit and badges. The standard car comes with a decent amount of equipment – automatic gearbox, all-wheel drive, air suspension, and BMW Live Cockpit Professional.

The latter is the same dual 12.3-inch screen set up from the 8 Series and it’s very pleasing to the eye, but not quite as forward facing as the system you’ll find in a Mercedes-Benz, which looks like one long screen.

If you are considering one, it’s worth bearing in mind that 2023 sees a fairly significant facelift. There’s new styling and an updated interior, plus revised engines including a more powerful and longer-range PHEV.

Click through the next few pages to read everything you need to know about the BMW X5, including its practicality, how much it costs to run, what it’s like to drive – and whether we recommend buying one.