Rankings & Awards:
The 2018 BMW X5 ranked #3 in Luxury Midsize SUVs. Currently the BMW X5 has a score of 8.7 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 29 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Is the BMW X5 a Good SUV?
Among the luxury midsize SUVs currently available, the BMW X5 rises to the top as one of the best. The X5's combination of positive reviews, and family-friendly features helped it win our 2018 Best Luxury 3-Row SUV for Families award. Refinement is everywhere you look, from the handsome interior to the selection of enthusiastic powertrains. Its carefully balanced driving dynamics slant toward sportiness, but the ride is still relaxing enough that no passengers will feel perturbed when you're traversing rougher roads. Its shortcomings are few, though shoppers looking for a 3-row SUV should know that space in the X5's optional third-row seat is limited.
Should I Buy the BMW X5?
If the BMW X5 (and the options you desire) is within your budget, you should buy it. Among midsize SUVs, it's one of the best in the class; it brings together sport and luxury in one well-dressed package. While the robust engines and athletic handling will satisfy the enthusiast, passengers will relax with the cushy seats and sophisticated infotainment system. Though a third row is available, the X5 works best as a 2-row SUV. The rearmost seats are pretty small.
The main argument against buying an X5 is cost. Its starting price is already north of high-ranking rivals like the Lexus RX. Adding extras like leather seats (which are already included in the Audi Q7) and advanced driver assistance systems (many of which are standard in the Mercedes-Benz GLE) drives the price even higher
We Did the Research for You: 28 Reviews Analyzed
Our goal is to make shopping for your next car as easy as possible. You'll find everything you need to know in our comprehensive BMW X5 review. It combines concrete data (like fuel economy estimates, horsepower specs, and cargo space dimensions) with 28 professional reviews. BMW launched the current X5 generation for the 2014 model year. As few major changes have been made to the luxury SUV since, our overview incorporates data and reviews from the 2014 through 2018 model years.
Why You Can Trust Us
The Best Cars team – a division of U.S. News & World Report – has been reviewing cars, trucks, and SUVs since 2007. With more than 75 years of combined automotive experience, our editors, writers, and analysts rank a wide variety of new and used cars and issue three annual awards: Best Cars for the Money, Best Cars for Families, and Best Vehicle Brands. To keep our recommendations unbiased, we decline expensive gifts from carmakers, and a third party handles our advertising.
How Much Does the BMW X5 Cost?
Retail prices of the 2018 X5 start at $56,950 (for the X5 sDrive35i) and reach as high as $100,700 (for the X5 M). That slots the X5 as one of the pricier midsize SUVs you can buy. Other trim levels for 2018 include the diesel-powered X5 xDrive35d ($60,750), the plug-in hybrid X5 xDrive40e iPerformance ($63,500), and the athletic X5 xDrive50i ($73,800). Some shoppers may also qualify for a $4,668 federal tax credit on the plug-in hybrid X5. For great deals at your local BMW dealer, check out our U.S. News Best Price Program. You can also find excellent manufacturer incentives on our BMW deals page.
BMW X5 Versus the Competition
Which Is Better: BMW X5 or Mercedes-Benz GLE?
The Mercedes-Benz GLE is a good pick if you're looking for a family-friendly SUV. It has two rows of cushy seats and more cargo space than most (except with the coupe body style). The GLE also earns top crash test ratings and comes with a wealth of advanced safety features, including a driver drowsiness monitor, crosswind assist, and trailer stability assist. Enthusiastic drivers will prefer driving the X5 instead, however.
Which Is Better: BMW X5 or Audi Q7?
The Audi Q7 and BMW X5 are both excellent midsize SUVs to consider. Out of the two, the Q7 is a better value. Its lower starting price can save you almost $7,000, with treats like leather upholstery, a third-row seat, and all-wheel drive already included. Caregivers will also appreciate the Q7's plentiful, easy-to-use LATCH hardware. The Q7 can't match the X5's above-average history of reliability, though.
