Revamped 2019 BMW X5 Blends Luxury and Performance

Redesigned SUV makes a strong first impression

Jon Linkov, Consumer Reports Autos Editor.

By Jon Linkov
Autos Editor

November 25, 2018

Update: Since this first drive was originally published in November 2018, we have posted a complete BMW X5 road test.

The 2019 BMW X5 is the fourth generation of the German automaker’s midsized luxury SUV. Like previous generations it comes standard with five seats, although a small third-row seat will be available as an option.

We’ve purchased our own X5, an all-wheel-drive xDrive40i trim. We’ll put it through a full evaluation after 2,000 break-in miles. But here are our first impressions.

What we bought: 2019 BMW X5 xDrive40i
Powertrain: 335-hp, 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine; eight-speed automatic transmission; all-wheel drive
MSRP: $60,700
Options: $7,035 (Phytonic blue metallic paint, cognac vernasca leather, convenience package, driving assistance package, premium package, remote engine start, front and rear heated seats, heated front-seat armrests, Harman Kardon surround sound)
Destination fee: $995
Total cost: $68,730

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Jon Linkov

Jon Linkov is the deputy auto editor at Consumer Reports. He has been with CR since 2002, covering varied automotive topics including buying and leasing, maintenance and repair, ownership, reliability, used cars, and electric vehicles. He manages CR’s lineup of special interest publications, hosts CR’s “Talking Cars” podcast, and writes and edits content for CR’s online and print products. An avid cyclist, Jon also enjoys driving his ’80s-era sports car and instructing at track days.