2022 BMW X5: Photos, Specs & Review - Forbes Wheels

BMW was early to the luxury SUV game when it debuted the midsize X5 way back in 1999. Since then, it’s been joined by smaller alternatives such as the X3 and X1 as well as the larger X7. Indeed, BMW’s “Sports Activity Vehicle” stable has also been bolstered by the even-numbered X2, X4 and X6 “crossover coupes.” While BMW SUVs might have seemed a strange idea 30 years ago, they make up 60% of the company’s global sales today and buyers like BMW’s sporty SUV formula. The X5 is its best-selling U.S. model.

In its fourth generation 2019, the X5 returns for 2023 with only minor changes. You can now get a wireless charging pad, but BMW’s Gesture Control, which used hand movements to control some features, has been discontinued. There’s also a switch from faux leather to vegan leather upholstery. Bigger changes are in store for the 2024 X5, with a styling refresh, more powerful and efficient engines and a more modern interior, so if you want these upgrades, it might pay to wait a few months until the 2024s arrive.

BMW was answering competitors like Mercedes-Benz in 1999 when the first X5 rolled off the line, but since then the ranks of midsize luxury SUVs have swelled. Its main rival is still the Mercedes-Benz GLE, which evolved from the old 1990s ML-Class, but there are many newer competitors and some with standard third rows. The Acura MDX, Audi Q7, Porsche Cayenne and upstart Genesis GV80 are all up in the mix, as is Lincoln’s revived Aviator. The Cayenne is a performance powerhouse and there are also AMG GLEs, but few midsize SUVs are as spry as the X5.

Performance is BMW’s calling card and all the X5s are capable, but there are many different versions to suit different buyer priorities. There are five basic variations, from the base 335-horsepower sDrive40i, the fuel-efficient plug-in hybrid xDrive45e with up to 31 miles of electric-only range, the brawny V8-powered xDriveM50i and to the top high-performance X5 M with an absurd 600 horsepower. All but the plug-in hybrid are also eligible for a third row of child-sized seats that increase passenger capacity to seven. 

If the X5 has a weakness, it’s that the second and third rows aren’t as big as most competitors, particularly the optional wayback seat. It isn’t that much smaller, however, than the one in the more affordable Genesis GV80. BMW clearly prioritizes dynamics over room, but most buyers wouldn’t have it any other way. Munich also offers lots of technology and safety features, though the best gear (like adaptive cruise control) is part of the automaker’s lengthy options list where some rivals make such things standard.

All of the X5’s competitors deliver plenty of luxury and refinement, but the BMW X5 distinguishes itself from the pack with a sportier driving experience, particularly if you opt for one of the V8 beasts. There’s not a bad choice in the bunch and each has its own set of advantages. If you’re seeking just a bit more driving excitement, the 2023 BMW X5 should be your first test drive.

Performance: 14/15

The X5 lineup starts with the sDrive40i and xDrive40i models, powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine that generates 335 horsepower and 331 pound-feet of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission powers the rear wheels for the sDrive40i and all four wheels for the xDrive40i. BMW estimates they’ll accelerate to 60 mph in 5.3 seconds. In the absence of an available off-road package, the xDrive40i is the most suitable for light adventures.

The xDrive45e model is notable as the most efficient X5, utilizing a plug-in hybrid powertrain that combines the six-cylinder engine of the 40i with an electric motor to produce 389 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque. With a full battery charge, this model can run on electric power for up to 31 miles before switching to conventional hybrid mode. Despite its extra power, the xDrive45e’s acceleration is the same as the 40i models thanks to the added weight of the battery.

The X5 M50i upgrades to a turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 that generates 523 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque and is paired with all-wheel drive as standard. This model boasts a zero-to-60 mph time of just 4.1 seconds and features a sport-tuned adaptive suspension for improved handling while maintaining an acceptably smooth ride. While the M50i isn’t the ultimate X5, it’s probably the sweet spot between all-out performance and day-to-day liveability.

For the rare shopper with all-out performance on their mind, the mighty X5 M takes the 4.4-liter V8 and increases output to an absurd 600 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque, achieving a zero-to-60 mph time of only 3.8 seconds. The ride quality is noticeably stiffer and louder than the other X5 models, though. While this M will carry a family of five around the track, it’s also worth noting that the new, all-electric iX is about the same size and faster in M60 form, while the six-cylinder X3 M is also a little faster and lighter.

No matter which X5 you opt for, they can all tow 7,200 pounds. That’s quite a good number for midsize SUVs (many of which are limited to less than 6,000 pounds), although Land Rover’s Discovery and Defender can do even more.

Fuel Economy: 12/15

The X5 sDrive40i is estimated by the EPA to return 21 mpg in the city, 26 mpg on the highway and 23 mpg in combined city/highway miles on premium unleaded fuel. The xDrive40i has a rating of 21 mpg city, 25 mpg highway and 23 mpg combined. In real-world testing the xDrive40i came close to that estimate with 21 mpg. 

The plug-in hybrid xDrive45e is rated at 50 MPGe, including 31 miles of electric-only range. The xDrive45e functions as a hybrid when the battery is depleted, eliminating range anxiety. It takes about 4 to 5 hours to fully charge the battery on a level 2 charger and unfortunately, DC fast charging is not compatible with this vehicle.

If you opt for the more powerful X5 M50i, expect 16 mpg in the city, 22 mpg on the highway and 18 mpg combined. That’s worse than most of the top-model V6 rivals like the GV80 3.5T or the Mercedes-AMG GLE43, but a little better than the Audi SQ7. The X5 M, of course, guzzles. The EPA rates it at 15 mpg combined (13 city, 18 highway), which is worse than the Mercedes-AMG GLE63 S, the Porsche Cayenne Turbo or the V8 Jaguar F-Pace SVR.

While rivals offer four-cylinder base engines, these less-powerful engines don’t necessarily result in better fuel economy. The Mercedes-Benz GLE 350, GLE450, Audi Q7 and Genesis GV80 are estimated at only 22 mpg combined. The six-cylinder Genesis and Audi options return 20 mpg combined, while the AMG GLE53 is estimated at 19 mpg. The V8-powered GLE580 is less powerful than the M50i but has a more favorable 19 mpg combined estimate.

Safety & Driver Assistance Tech: 11/15

The BMW X5 has received four out of five stars overall from the National Highway Traffic Administration (NHTSA), with four stars for frontal crash, and rollover protection and five out of five stars for side protection. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has awarded the X5 “Good” across all categories. IIHS named the X5 a Top Safety Pick last year, its second-highest honor, but the 2023 model hasn’t earned that designation due to stricter standards.

The X5 comes standard with forward automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning and a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic warnings. For an additional $1,700, the Driving Assistance Professional package adds adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, automatic evasive steering assist and emergency stop assist, which brings the vehicle to a stop if the system determines the driver is unresponsive.

These standard and optional safety features are comparable to those of other luxury SUVs in the class, though the Genesis GV80 and Audi Q7 include some of the X5’s optional features as standard equipment on higher trims.

Comfort & Room: 11/15

The X5’s suspension is tuned for sportier handling compared to many of its rivals, making the ride quality noticeably firmer, but not at all harsh. The standard adaptive suspension allows the driver to select even stiffer settings for more dynamic cornering, and the X5 M’s 22-inch wheels and performance tires get even more aggressive.

The front seats are adequately cushioned and well-shaped for long-distance comfort. Thanks to an abundance of seat adjustments, tall or short drivers will easily find their preferred position. The available Luxury Seating package adds ventilation and massage functions, making it a smart addition for those who anticipate long road trips. The rear seats are also well padded and there’s enough head-and legroom for taller passengers.

Rear-seat headroom is comparable to the Audi Q7 and Genesis GV70, but the Mercedes-Benz GLE offers slightly more. All of these alternatives provide more legroom, especially the very accommodating Mercedes GLE. The X5’s 37.4 inches of rear legroom aren’t awful, but that’s not all that much by the standards of midsize SUVs. The optional third row is also small, and if you really need that space an upgrade to the X7 might be a better idea.

Infotainment: 11/15

All BMW X5s are equipped with a large 12.3-inch infotainment display, but recent microchip shortages have interrupted touchscreen functionality. You’ll have to check with your dealer about this situation. The good news is, the dial controller on the center console is an excellent substitute that could be less distracting for many drivers. The top of the dial also accepts handwriting input and makes entering a destination a breeze.

BMW’s iDrive 7 system is packed with features in a multitude of menus and can be daunting at first. Physical switches for climate controls allow for look-free adjustments and a row of programmable shortcut buttons also reduces screen reliance. Next year will see the addition of iDrive 8, which has helpful voice commands but which is, in our experience, even more complex than version 7.

Also standard is a digital instrument panel that can be configured to your preference, whether you want a ton of information or desire a more traditional analog dial look. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both included, but require a USB cable.

Cargo Space & Storage: 11/15

The X5 can hold as much as 33.9 cubic-feet of cargo behind the rear seats. This is comparable to the Audi Q7’s 35.7 cubic-feet, the Genesis GV80’s 34.9 cubic-feet and the Mercedes-Benz GLE’s 33.3 cubic-feet. If you opt for the plug-in hybrid X5, the batteries will reduce capacity slightly to 33.1 cubic-feet, but that’s still not far off most competitors. It falls behind on overall volume with the seats folded though, with 72.3 cubic-feet to the GV80’s 84 and the Acura MDX’s 95.

Unlike its competitors, the X5 features a Range Rover-like split tailgate/liftgate that allows you to open the top glass section independently, leaving the tailgate section to keep objects from falling out. Lowering that tailgate comes in handy when loading bulkier objects or as a convenient bench.

For smaller personal effects, you have plenty of cupholders, bins and a rubberized tray to keep your phone in place. Compared to other luxury SUVs, the X5 is only about average when it comes to personal storage.

Style & Design: 7/10

The BMW X5 looks appropriately sporty considering its more performance-biased personality. At the same time, it’s stately and substantial, with an upright face and large expanses of sheet metal. Unlike some newer BMW designs, this X5 doesn’t suffer from a massive grille that tends to divide opinions, but it also tends to blend in with the X1 and X3, which both cost quite a bit less. There is a styling refresh slated for the 2024 model year if this is holding you back.

The interior echoes some of the X5’s beveled style treatments and benefits from materials that meet luxury standards and reassuringly solid construction. If you spring for the high-performance V8s, you’ll also get a sport steering wheel and sport seat up front with more aggressive side bolstering. The interior design isn’t as sleek or modern as its chief rivals that give a high-tech impression with large expanses of digital screens, and that’s not really a criticism since those glass cockpits, like the one in the Audi Q7, can often be more distracting than helpful.

Is the 2023 BMW X5 Worth it? Which X5 is the Best Value?

With a starting price of $62,295 for the X5 sDrive 40i (including a $995 destination fee), the 2023 BMW X5 is more expensive than the Mercedes-Benz GLE, Audi Q7 and Genesis GV80. That’s largely because all of those rivals offer four-cylinder base engines that cost a few thousand less. In an apples-to-apples comparison with their six-cylinder models, the prices are competitive, even if you opt for the AWD X5 xDrive40i ($64,895).

That compares to $63,975 for the GV80 3.5T and $67,600 for the GLE 450 4Matic. Of the many rivals in this class, the Genesis represents the best value overall even if its six-cylinder versions aren’t quite the bargain that the four-cylinder 2.5Ts are. It just comes with more standard features (particularly of the active safety and convenience kind) and a truly outstanding interior for less money. But the X5 is undoubtedly the sportiest option here.

The base BMW X5 sDrive40i has plenty of power and will easily satisfy most drivers. We’d consider stepping up to the all-wheel drive xDrive40i if you live in weather-prone regions. If you have a relatively short commute and access to EV chargers, the plug-in hybrid xDrive45e ($66,695) would make a better choice since it’s not significantly more expensive. It’s also about $5,000 less to start than the only truly comparable PHEV, the Volvo XC90 Recharge.

For serious performance fans, the best bet is the M50i ($86,395). No, it isn’t as fast as the X5 M, but it’s very quick and lots of fun without any real compromise in family-friendliness or ride quality. Opt for the X5 M ($109,895) and you get a little more speed but a substantially higher bill. For that money, you can have the even-faster iX M60 (it’s the exact same price), which has all of BMW’s latest tech, too.

How Much Does it Cost to Insure the BMW X5?

The X5 costs a little more to insure than most of its competitors. According to our data, a typical 30-year-old female driver with a clean record can expect an average annual premium of $2,892 for the X5 xDrive40i, but $3,168 for the xDrive 45e and $3,968 for the X5 M. That compares to $3,521 for the V8 Mercedes-Benz GLE 580, $2,744 for the Genesis GV80 3.5T, $2,578 for the Volvo XC90 Recharge and $3,102 for the Lincoln Aviator Black Label. To get a more accurate picture of your potential insurance expenses, visit our car insurance calculator.