Recent updates have given the X5 a 14.9-inch curved touchscreen with the new iDrive 8 infotainment system and a digital instrument display.
Many of the physical climate controls have been replaced by touchscreen-based buttons.
The standard 3.0-liter turbo six- cylinder now makes 375 hp, is quick and smooth, and returns a decent 23 mpg overall.
We also tested the xDrive50e plug-in hybrid, which can run on electric power for 39 miles and gets 21 mpg as a hybrid.
The ride is comfortable and impressively steady and composed.
The luxurious cabin is whisper-quiet, and the seats are all-day comfortable.
Handling isn't sporty but is very competent.
The X6 is a sportier, coupelike version.
The optional driving assistance suite includes adaptive cruise control and lane centering assistance.
The redesigned 2019 X5 is one of the best vehicles we've ever tested.
The xDrive40i's smooth 335-hp, 3.0-liter six-cylinder turbo engine makes the X5 quick and easy to drive smoothly, yet it gets a decent 23 mpg overall.
We don't think there is any reason to opt for the V8-powered xDrive50i.
The ride is comfortable and impressively steady and composed.
The impeccably finished, luxurious cabin is whisper quiet, and the seats are all-day comfortable.
Handling isn't sporty but is very competent.
Controls have an initial learning curve but prove to be logical once mastered, and the infotainment system works seamlessly. An M50i version, with a 523-hp, turbo V8 engine, was new for 2020.
The optional driving assistance suite includes adaptive cruise control and lane centering assistance, with automatic lane change with eye glance introduced in 2025.
The 2014 redesign brought a smoother ride but less crispness and reduced agility.
We would choose the standard six-cylinder engine to get the best blend of performance and fuel economy.
Most X5s came with the optional Premium package.
The backup camera is the only option we consider a must-have.
While iDrive continues to flummox, its features have improved with faster response time and better voice controls.
BMW offers a Driver Assistance Package, which includes lane departure, forward collision, and pedestrian warnings, along with city collision mitigation, a rear camera and head-up display.
You can also get the Driver Assistance Plus option, which adds blind spot detection, surround view cameras and speed limit info.
A plug-in hybrid with a 2.0-liter twin turbo four-cylinder engine joined the lineup for 2016.
The 2007 redesign is longer and adds an optional, kids-only third row.
The six- and eight-cylinder engines are powerful and the diesel version got 22 mpg in our tests.
Even though iDrive makes the controls more complex, we like the handling, smooth engine, comfortable seats and impeccable fit and finish.
Overall though, we think the complicated controls and stiff suspension will frustrate most buyers.
A turbodiesel is available.
More sport than utility, BMW's 'big' SUV started out with a stiff ride but comfortable seats and a plush interior.
With the 4.4-liter V8, it accelerates like a sports car, with outstanding handling and braking to boot.
While the 3.0-liter inline six is plenty powerful, our X5 tester equipped with this engine lifted two wheels in our avoidance maneuver testing -- despite the presence of stability control as standard equipment.
For that reason, we rate its emergency handling as poor.
While improvements to the platform for 2005 models cure that problem, handling is still unsettled at the limit.
Cargo capacity and rear-seat room are modest.
The X5 holds 35.5 cubic feet of cargo.
Payload is 1,290 pounds, 220 of which can be loaded on the roof.
Properly equipped, the X5 will tow 5,000 pounds.
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