BMW X5: Price, Specs & Review
The BMW X5 is a midsize luxury SUV for buyers who want a premium interior, strong performance, real towing capability, and enough room for family trips without moving up to a large three-row SUV.
For 2026, the X5 range includes the rear-wheel-drive sDrive40i, all-wheel-drive xDrive40i, plug-in-hybrid xDrive50e, V8-powered M60i, and high-performance X5 M Competition.
The X5 xDrive40i is the best choice for most buyers. It has a smooth 375-hp inline-six, standard all-wheel drive, useful cargo space, and a better balance of price, performance, and running costs than the faster models.
WheelPedia Rating: 8.7/10
WheelPedia’s score is an editorial assessment based on current specifications, safety results, ownership factors, equipment, and class context.
| Rating Category | Score | Weight |
| Safety | 9.2/10 | 20% |
| Reliability and ownership | 7.8/10 | 15% |
| Performance and driving | 9.0/10 | 15% |
| Comfort and practicality | 9.0/10 | 15% |
| Efficiency | 8.5/10 | 15% |
| Features and technology | 9.0/10 | 10% |
| Price and value | 7.8/10 | 10% |
| Overall WheelPedia Rating | 8.7/10 | — |
Read How We Rate Cars to see how WheelPedia calculates vehicle ratings.
Key Highlights
- Starts from $68,300 MSRP for the X5 sDrive40i, before destination, taxes, registration, dealer fees, and options.
- Available with rear-wheel drive, all-wheel drive, plug-in-hybrid power, V8 performance, or full BMW M performance.
- The 375-hp X5 xDrive40i reaches 60 mph in a BMW-estimated 5.2 seconds.
- The 483-hp X5 xDrive50e plug-in hybrid offers up to 38 miles of BMW-estimated electric driving range.
- The X5 M Competition produces 617 horsepower and reaches 60 mph in a BMW-estimated 3.7 seconds.
- Up to 33.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 72.3 cubic feet with them folded.
- Can tow up to 7,200 pounds when properly equipped with BMW’s factory trailer hitch.
- The 2026 X5 earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award.
- Built in Spartanburg, South Carolina. BMW
Quick Specifications
| Specification | BMW X5 |
| Vehicle type | Midsize luxury SUV |
| Seating capacity | 5 |
| Engines | 3.0L turbo inline-six; 3.0L plug-in-hybrid inline-six; 4.4L twin-turbo V8 |
| Power output | 375–617 hp |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, depending on trim |
| Fastest BMW-estimated 0–60 mph | 3.7 seconds |
| Maximum cargo capacity | 72.3 cu. ft. |
| Length | 194.3 in. |
| Wheelbase | 117.1 in. |
| Maximum towing capacity | 7,200 lbs |
| Fuel requirement | Premium unleaded recommended; required for X5 M Competition |
Expert Tip:
The X5 xDrive40i is the sweet spot. Its inline-six is quick, refined, and far less costly to buy and run than the V8 models. Choose the xDrive50e only if you have convenient charging at home or work and will use its electric range regularly.
About the BMW X5
The X5 sits above the BMW X3 in BMW’s SUV range. It is wider, longer, quieter on the highway, more luxurious inside, and more capable when towing or carrying large loads.
It is a two-row SUV, so buyers who need a third row should consider a larger alternative. However, the X5 has enough rear-seat room and cargo space for most families with one or two children.
The X5 is a good fit for commuters, couples, small families, frequent road-trippers, and buyers who want a premium SUV that feels engaging from behind the wheel.
Price and Trims
These are US starting MSRPs for the 2026 BMW X5. Prices exclude destination, taxes, title, registration, dealer fees, accessories, and options.
| Trim | Starting MSRP | Drivetrain | Power | Best For |
| X5 sDrive40i | $68,300 | RWD | 375 hp | Buyers in warm climates who want the lowest starting price |
| X5 xDrive40i | $70,600 | AWD | 375 hp | Most buyers |
| X5 xDrive50e | $76,000 | AWD PHEV | 483 hp | Drivers who can charge regularly |
| X5 M60i | $93,600 | AWD | 523 hp | Buyers who want V8 performance |
| X5 M Competition | $131,000 | AWD | 617 hp | High-performance SUV buyers |
The sDrive40i makes sense for drivers in warmer states who do not need all-wheel drive. For nearly everyone else, the xDrive40i is worth the extra money for added traction and stronger resale appeal.
The xDrive50e is a compelling plug-in hybrid, but only when it is charged often. If it is rarely plugged in, the lower-cost xDrive40i is the simpler choice.
Engine, Performance, and Driving Experience
The X5 sDrive40i and xDrive40i use a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six with 48-volt mild-hybrid assistance. Both produce 375 horsepower.
The xDrive50e combines a turbocharged inline-six with an electric motor for 483 horsepower. It is much quicker than the 40i models and can handle many short drives on electricity alone.
The M60i and X5 M Competition use twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engines. They are seriously quick, but also much more expensive to fuel, insure, and maintain.
| Trim | Engine | Power | BMW-Estimated 0–60 mph |
| X5 sDrive40i | 3.0L turbo inline-six mild hybrid | 375 hp | 5.3 seconds |
| X5 xDrive40i | 3.0L turbo inline-six mild hybrid | 375 hp | 5.2 seconds |
| X5 xDrive50e | 3.0L turbo plug-in-hybrid inline-six | 483 hp | 4.6 seconds |
| X5 M60i | 4.4L twin-turbo V8 mild hybrid | 523 hp | 4.2 seconds |
| X5 M Competition | 4.4L twin-turbo V8 | 617 hp | 3.7 seconds |
All models use an eight-speed automatic transmission. BMW lists the sDrive40i as rear-wheel drive, while the xDrive40i, xDrive50e, M60i, and X5 M Competition use all-wheel-drive systems. BMW
The xDrive40i is fast enough for daily driving, highway passing, and fully loaded family trips. Its inline-six is smooth and refined, which suits the X5’s luxury character well.
The xDrive50e feels especially quick because electric-motor torque arrives immediately. The M60i and X5 M Competition are for drivers who place performance ahead of value and low running costs.
Fuel Economy and Electric Range
| Model | EPA Fuel Economy |
| X5 sDrive40i | 23 city / 27 highway / 25 combined mpg |
| X5 xDrive40i | 23 city / 27 highway / 25 combined mpg |
| X5 xDrive50e | 60 MPGe combined; 22 mpg combined on gasoline only |
| X5 M60i | 17 city / 22 highway / 19 combined mpg |
| X5 M Competition | 13 city / 18 highway / 15 combined mpg |
The xDrive50e has up to 38 miles of BMW-estimated electric range when fully charged. It is the best X5 for short commutes and local errands, but its real-world savings depend heavily on regular charging and driving habits.
The xDrive40i is the better choice for buyers who want straightforward ownership without charging. EPA ratings are available through FuelEconomy.gov.
BMW recommends premium gasoline for the X5 lineup. Premium fuel is required for the X5 M Competition.
Interior, Comfort, and Technology
The X5 has a premium, spacious cabin with a curved digital display, quality materials, supportive seating, and strong long-distance comfort.
Standard and available features include:
- BMW Curved Display
- BMW Operating System 8.5
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Navigation
- BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant
- BMW Digital Key Plus
- My BMW app connectivity
- Heated front seats
- Available ventilated front seats
- Available heated rear seats
- Available heated steering wheel and armrests
- Available Sky Lounge Panoramic Roof
- Available Harman Kardon sound system
- Available Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System
- Available head-up display
- Available glass controls
- Available Parking Assistant Professional
- Available Driving Assistant Professional
- Available Highway Assistant with Active Lane Change
The X5 is comfortable for four adults and works well for five on shorter trips. Its rear seat is more spacious than the BMW X3, while the cabin feels more upscale overall.
One downside is that many controls are handled through the screen. Buyers who prefer more physical climate-control buttons may need time to adjust.
Dimensions, Cargo, and Practicality
| Dimension | Measurement |
| Length | 194.3 in. |
| Width | 78.9 in. |
| Height | 69.1 in. |
| Wheelbase | 117.1 in. |
| Cargo space behind rear seats, 40i models | 33.9 cu. ft. |
| Maximum cargo space, 40i models | 72.3 cu. ft. |
| Cargo space behind rear seats, xDrive50e | 33.0 cu. ft. |
| Maximum cargo space, xDrive50e | 71.2 cu. ft. |
| Seating capacity | 5 |
The X5 has a split-opening power tailgate, which makes loading groceries, luggage, and heavier items easier. Its wide cargo opening and folding rear seats are useful for strollers, sports gear, furniture, and road-trip bags.
The X5 can tow up to 7,200 pounds when properly equipped with BMW’s factory-installed trailer hitch. The M60i and X5 M Competition are not offered with a trailer hitch. BMW
Exterior Design
The X5 has a broad stance, large kidney grille, sculpted bodywork, and a more traditional SUV profile than the coupe-shaped BMW X6.
Exterior highlights include:
- LED headlights and taillights
- Adaptive LED headlights
- Standard 20-inch wheels on 40i models
- Available 21- and 22-inch wheels
- Available illuminated kidney grille
- Available M Sport package
- Power split-opening tailgate
- Available Sky Lounge Panoramic Roof
- M-specific grille, wheels, exhaust, and bodywork on M60i and X5 M Competition
The X5 xDrive40i has a clean, premium design. The M60i and X5 M Competition look much more aggressive, especially with their quad exhaust outlets and larger wheels.
Safety Features and Ratings
Standard and available driver-assistance features include:
- Forward collision warning
- Automatic emergency braking
- Pedestrian detection
- Lane-departure warning
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Rearview camera
- Front and rear parking sensors
- Automatic high beams
- Available surround-view camera system
- Available adaptive cruise control
- Available lane-centering support
- Available Highway Assistant with Active Lane Change
- Available automatic parking assistance
The 2026 BMW X5 earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award. IIHS gave the X5 Good ratings in its small-overlap front, updated moderate-overlap front, and updated side crash tests. Its standard vehicle-to-vehicle and pedestrian front-crash-prevention systems also earned Good ratings. IIHS
Driver-assistance features can help reduce workload, but they do not make the X5 self-driving. The driver remains responsible for watching the road and taking control when needed.
Before buying, check the latest NHTSA safety database for recalls, safety ratings, and notices.
Reliability, Warranty, and Ownership
The X5 has turbocharged engines, advanced electronics, air-suspension options, all-wheel-drive hardware, and several expensive available features. Ownership costs will be higher than with a mainstream midsize SUV.
The xDrive40i is the best long-term ownership choice in the range. Its inline-six is less complex and less costly to operate than the plug-in-hybrid and V8 versions.
BMW’s US coverage includes:
| Coverage | Length |
| New vehicle limited warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
| Scheduled maintenance | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
| Roadside assistance | 4 years / unlimited miles |
| Rust perforation warranty | 12 years / unlimited miles |
For a used BMW X5, inspect service records, tire and brake wear, warning lights, suspension operation, infotainment features, charging equipment on the xDrive50e, accident history, and open recalls.
Read how to check a car’s accident history and use a VIN check before buying.
Pros and Cons
What We Like
- Smooth and powerful inline-six engines
- Standard all-wheel drive on most trims
- Fast xDrive50e plug-in hybrid
- Spacious, premium interior
- Useful cargo area
- Strong towing capability on non-M models
- Excellent highway comfort
- Modern infotainment and connectivity
- Wide range of performance choices
- IIHS Top Safety Pick+ recognition
What We Don’t Like
- High starting price
- Options raise the final price quickly
- Premium gasoline increases fuel costs
- Touchscreen-heavy controls
- No third-row seating
- Plug-in-hybrid value depends on regular charging
- V8 models are expensive to operate
- Long-term repairs can be costly
Competitors
The BMW X5 competes with:
- Mercedes-Benz GLE
- Porsche Cayenne
- Audi Q7
- Genesis GV80
- Volvo XC90
- Lexus RX
- Land Rover Range Rover Sport
The X5 stands out for its driving feel, performance range, towing strength, and well-finished cabin. The Lexus RX is a better fit for buyers focused on lower-stress ownership, while the Porsche Cayenne is the more driver-focused alternative at a higher price.
Related WheelPedia Content
For a smaller and less expensive BMW SUV, compare the BMW X3.
For a compact BMW SUV with easier city parking, see the BMW X1. Buyers who want a more style-led coupe-SUV shape can compare the BMW X2.
Before visiting a dealership, read how car financing works and consider arranging car loan preapproval.
Should You Buy the BMW X5?
Buy the BMW X5 if you want a premium two-row SUV with strong performance, useful cargo space, refined road manners, and genuine towing capability.
Choose the X5 xDrive40i if you want the best mix of power, comfort, all-weather traction, practicality, and ownership costs. It is the trim most buyers should choose.
Choose the X5 xDrive50e if you can charge frequently and want fast acceleration with electric-only local driving.
Choose the M60i or X5 M Competition only if you place a high value on V8 performance and are comfortable with much higher purchase and running costs.
Skip the X5 if you need a third row, want the lowest possible ownership costs, or prefer a vehicle with more physical controls.
FAQs
How much does the BMW X5 cost?
The 2026 BMW X5 starts from $68,300 MSRP for the sDrive40i. The xDrive40i starts from $70,600, while the xDrive50e starts from $76,000. Taxes, destination, registration, dealer fees, accessories, and options raise the final price.
Is the BMW X5 all-wheel drive?
Most X5 trims come with BMW xDrive all-wheel drive. The sDrive40i is rear-wheel drive, while the xDrive40i, xDrive50e, M60i, and X5 M Competition use all-wheel-drive systems.
How much horsepower does the BMW X5 have?
The X5 range produces between 375 and 617 horsepower, depending on trim. The xDrive40i has 375 hp, the xDrive50e has 483 hp, the M60i has 523 hp, and the X5 M Competition has 617 hp.
How fast is the BMW X5?
BMW estimates the xDrive40i reaches 60 mph in 5.2 seconds. The xDrive50e does it in 4.6 seconds, the M60i in 4.2 seconds, and the X5 M Competition in 3.7 seconds.
Does the BMW X5 have a third row?
No. The current BMW X5 has two rows and seats up to five people.
How much cargo space does the BMW X5 have?
The X5 sDrive40i and xDrive40i have 33.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and up to 72.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The xDrive50e has slightly less cargo space because of its plug-in-hybrid hardware.
Can the BMW X5 tow a trailer?
Yes. When properly equipped with BMW’s factory-installed trailer hitch, the X5 can tow up to 7,200 pounds. The M60i and X5 M Competition do not offer a trailer hitch.
What is the electric range of the BMW X5 xDrive50e?
BMW estimates the X5 xDrive50e can travel up to 38 miles on electricity when fully charged. Actual range varies with weather, speed, terrain, driving style, and wheel choice.
Does the BMW X5 require premium gas?
BMW recommends premium gasoline for the X5. Premium fuel is required for the X5 M Competition.
Is the BMW X5 good in snow?
The xDrive40i, xDrive50e, M60i, and X5 M Competition have all-wheel drive, which helps with traction in wet and snowy conditions. Winter tires remain the best upgrade for regular snow and ice driving.
Is the BMW X5 M60i a full BMW M model?
No. The X5 M60i is an M Performance model. The X5 M Competition is the full BMW M version, with a more powerful engine, M xDrive, M-specific suspension, brakes, and chassis tuning.
Final Verdict
The BMW X5 is one of the strongest premium midsize SUVs for buyers who want comfort, performance, technology, and real daily usefulness in one vehicle.
The X5 xDrive40i is the smart buy. It is quick, refined, capable in poor weather, and better value than the V8 models.
The xDrive50e is appealing for buyers with reliable charging access, while the M60i and X5 M Competition are exciting but expensive performance choices.
The X5 is not cheap to own, and it does not offer a third row. But for buyers who want a well-rounded luxury SUV that is enjoyable to drive and capable enough for family life, it is an excellent choice.
Prices, specifications, fuel-economy ratings, electric range, safety ratings, recalls, and feature availability can change by model year, trim, options, and market.