The BMW X5 is available in two models at launch, categorized in Convenience; Premium; and Executive Tiers with varying amount of options for each trim, the xDrive40i is powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 producing 335 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque. The xDrive50i is fitted with a newly developed 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 making 456 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. Both have an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive.
A big part of the X5's mission is to dominate the drive. BMW has accomplished this featuring standard self-leveling suspension that utilizes a double A-arm front and 5-link rear suspension setup with dynamic damper control offering Sport and Comfort settings. The X5 is thus able to out-handle most of its competitors in addition to being quite quick in a straight line. An available off-road package adds air suspension, underbody protection and an electric locking differential.
On the inside, BMW has continued to improve its iDrive system with a fully digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch Control Display and BMW Head-Up Display with a larger surface and 3D graphics. The new X5 debuts the BMW Live Cockpit Professional display as standard, which adds to the iDrive system with new controls, a tablet-like touchscreen, upgraded navigation, a hard-drive-based multimedia system with 20 GB of memory and many customizable settings. Leather seats are also standard on both trims along with adaptive LED headlights, 4-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof and power first and second row seats.
Premium tier equipped vehicles come well equipped, starting with Parking Assistant Plus, Enhanced USB and Bluetooth, Surround View with 3D view, wireless charging, a Wifi hotspot, Gesture Control and head-up display.
Stepping into the Executive Tier adds remote engine start, soft-close automatic doors, heated and cooled cup holders, heated armrests, rear manual side window shades and adaptive LED headlights with laser light technology.
M Sport models have more body color panels and matte aluminum kidney grille bars; the roof rails and side window surrounds are in a high-gloss black. Standard wheels are 19 inches, with 21- and, for the first time, 22-inch wheels available as an option. It has an M Sport steering wheel, sport pedals and unique aluminum trim
Safety features go above and beyond typical safety equipment like multi-stage airbags and anti-lock brakes. BMW's Driving Assistant Professional system includes improved active cruise control, steering and lane-control assist, lane-change and lane-departure warnings, evasion aid, cross-traffic warning, priority warning, and wrong-way warning. The optional Emergency Stop Assistant applies the brakes automatically when necessary and steers the vehicle to the side of the road on its own. A new Reversing Assistant system also steers the vehicle along a path recently negotiated forward over a short distance.
Modern Exterior Design
Excellent Performance
Standard All-wheel Drive
Available Off-road Package
Luxury Interior
Autonomous Driving Capabilities
The 2019 BMW X5 gets an extensive re-design heading into its fourth generation since its genesis in 1999. With two million sold units and the nickname "The Boss" the new X5 is longer, wider and features an angular design with sharp curves centered on Lambo-like front bumper inlets and dominating kidney grilles that, all together, fit well into BMW's modern design template. The most extensive changes, however, lie with improvements to power output, efficiency, suspension design, and an entire new suite of driver assists and infotainment technology. Joining the CLAR platform the X5 will now be able to accommodate a plug-in hybrid that is expected for the 2020 model year with a battery pack under the seats to avoid stealing any cargo space.
The BMW X5 is a sport luxury SUV that competes with manufacturers all over the planet for the coveted space this segment provides. Vehicles like the INFINITI QX60, Lexus GX, Audi Q7 and the Volvo XC90, to name a few, compete in this crowded category all with a varying degree of luxury and class consumers have come to expect. The BMW X5 sets itself apart with significantly sportier characteristics that many of its competitors struggle to compete with. The X5, featuring better handling and a more hardcore driver-oriented demeanor, provides another choice for those looking for something more.
