In the realm of midsize luxury SUVs, there is an abundance of offerings, most of which are commendable, but the 2023 BMW X5 distinguishes itself with a blend of performance and refinement that eludes many of its crossover counterparts. A part of the X5's broad appeal can be attributed to its powertrain trio that commences with a smooth, turbocharged inline-six
engine, generating 335 horsepower. A twin-turbo V8 engine delivers the necessary power with 523 horsepower, while an eco-friendly plug-in hybrid system enables a range of up to 30 miles on electric power alone. Although competitors such as the Genesis GV80 and Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class may surpass the X5 in terms of elegance, BMW's beautifully crafted, well-cut cabin still conveys a strong premium impression. Furthermore, the X5's driving experience is more charming than that of its alternatives, even if it's not as sporty as
some of BMW's past offerings that we lament.
While driving enthusiasts may prefer a true performer like the Porsche Cayenne, the swift and well-rounded X5 ranks at the top of its class, thanks to its overall excellence.
What's New for 2023?
A series of packaging changes are the only updates for 2023. The X5's optional Premium package now includes a wireless smartphone charging pad, but no gesture control for the iDrive infotainment system. The same goes for the Executive package, which also lacks gesture control. The sleek optional Vernasca leather upholstery has been discontinued, as has BMW's animal-free SensaTec leatherette, which has been replaced by a new vegan leather option called Sensafin.
We love saving money almost as much as we love great performance, and that's why we believe the X5 xDrive40i is the one to buy. With a zero-to-100-kph acceleration time of just 4.8 seconds, it offers the acceleration of a sports sedan, features all-wheel drive, and is a relative bargain in this expensive class. We recommend ordering the Premium package with a head-up display, four-zone automatic climate control, remote engine start, and Harman/Kardon stereo system.
Features and Specifications of the BMW X5
The X5 2023 will be offered with one of three different drivetrains, each associated with a different model. The X5 sDrive40i or xDrive40i are powered by an inline-six turbocharged engine producing 335 horsepower. The plug-in hybrid xDrive45e features a charged inline-six and an electric motor, producing a combined 389 horsepower. This drivetrain brought the X5 to 100 km/h in just 4.7 seconds on our test track. The M50i, with its 523-horsepower twin-turbo V8, can reach 60 mph in just 3.9 seconds.
All three drivetrains are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and none of them lack power in virtually any driving situation. The refined driving behavior and stable handling of the X5 are a significant improvement over its predecessor, as is the steering, which feels more direct but still falls short of what we would call sporty. The Audi Q7 still outperforms the X5 in this area, but it's a close match. When you push the X5 into a fast curve, it reliably holds its line and rewards the driver with a predictability that the GLE-Class lacks. And if you need to tow a vehicle, know that the X5's maximum towing capacity, regardless of engine, is a proud 7,200 pounds.
The xDrive45e model comes standard with a 24.0-kWh battery
pack, which according to BMW is sufficient for up to 30 miles of pure electric
driving. The X5 can use the battery to drive up to 84 miles per hour without
tapping into the gasoline engine. The battery pack can be charged at home on
110- or 220-volt outlets, or at public charging stations.
With the inline-six, the X5 is as efficient as the GLE-Class's four-cylinder version and slightly more efficient than the Q7's four-cylinder, according to the EPA. The EPA values for the V8 drop drastically. However, in our real-world highway fuel economy tests, only the 40i model exceeded its highway rating with 28 mpg; the M50i achieved 20 mpg, 2 mpg less than expected. The plug-in hybrid 45e achieved 46 MPGe in pure battery mode and 26 mpg overall. More information on the X5's fuel economy can be found on the EPA's website.
The interior space is generous for adults in both the first and second rows, but the optional third row is only suitable for children. The interior features high-quality materials, numerous device charging stations, and, depending on the selected equipment, a variety of luxury features. Electrically adjustable front seats with driver memory are standard. All models come with an electrically adjustable steering column, heated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, an electric tailgate, rain-sensing wipers, and individually adjustable ambient lighting.
The X5 exudes the aura of a luxury SUV of the upper class with features like massage seats, remote start, soft-close doors, acoustic glass, leather dashboard, and heated armrests and steering wheel. However, these options come at a hefty price. Speaking of expensive options, buyers can upgrade to a Bowers & Wilkins surround-sound audio system with diamond dome tweeters.
The X5 offers ample cargo space. With the rear seats in use, we managed to stow 11 of our carry-on bags behind the second row. With the rear seats folded down, which can be operated from either the side or the back of the SUV, we found room for 26 suitcases. The GLE-Class could keep up with the X5 in this test, but its rear seats are not as easy to stow away.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Two 12.3-inch displays give the otherwise understated cockpit a modern look. One serves as a digital display - a feature that is becoming increasingly common among luxury car manufacturers - and the other provides access to the infotainment system, which runs on the latest version of the BMW iDrive software. Control can be via the touchscreen or the rotary dial in the center console. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto both come standard.
Safety and Driver Assistance Features
BMW offers basic driver assistance features as standard, including automatic emergency braking, but more advanced features like a semi-autonomous driving mode are available as options. For more information on the X5's crash test results, visit the websites of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Key safety features include:
- Standard automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection
- Standard lane departure warning
- Standard blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
- Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
BMW offers similar warranty coverage to its main
competitors, Mercedes-Benz and Audi, but sweetens the deal with three years or
36,000 miles of free scheduled maintenance. Volvo buyers also enjoy such a
benefit, while the Buick Enclave offers a longer powertrain warranty.
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.0L turbocharged inline 6-cylinder engine |
| 4.4L turbocharged V8 engine (optional) | |
| Horsepower | 300 hp |
| 456 hp (V8 engine) | |
| Torque | 300 lb-ft |
| 479 lb-ft (V8 engine) | |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | All-wheel drive |
| Cargo Space | 33.9 cubic feet behind rear seats |
| 72.3 cubic feet with rear seats folded | |
| Infotainment System | 12.3-inch touchscreen display |
| BMW iDrive 7.0 system | |
| Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility | |
| Safety Features | Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection |
| Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert | |
| Lane departure warning | |
| Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality | |
| Warranty Coverage | 4 years/50,000 miles bumper-to-bumper |
| 3 years/36,000 miles of free scheduled maintenance | |
| Fuel Economy (city/hwy) | 21/26 mpg (inline 6-cylinder engine) |
| 16/22 mpg (V8 engine) | |
| Base MSRP | $60,395 |