2025 BMW X5 SUV

　　2025 BMW X5 Review

　　byKurt NiebuhrSenior Vehicle Test Editor

　　Kurt Niebuhr has worked in the automotive industry since 2005. A automotive photographer by trade, Kurt is now one of zzdcar' high-performance test drivers. He's driven and photographed hundreds, if not thousands, of vehicles all over the world, so Kurt's library of automotive experiences would certainly make for a good book. When not dreaming about getting his racing license or trying to buy out-of-date film for his cameras, Kurt can usually be found cursing at his 1966 Mustang.

　　1/23/2024

　　Overview

　　BMW's X5 has been around for more than two decades and throughout that time has offered a satisfying blend of performance, luxury and cutting-edge technology. With seating for five (the X5 used to offer an optional third row) and a choice of powerful six- and eight-cylinder engines as well as a plug-in hybrid version, the X5 can be tailored to suit almost any SUV buyer's needs. Having just received a mild styling refresh and interior updates for the 2024 model year, we don't think BMW is likely to change anything substantial on the X5 for 2025.

　　

zzdcar spotlight: Powerful powertrains

No matter which level of X5 you choose, you won't be lacking for horsepower. In its entry-level forms, the sDrive40i and all-wheel-drive xDrive40i, the X5 uses a twin-turbocharged three-liter inline six-cylinder engine churning out a healthy 375 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque. Opting for the plug-in hybrid, the xDrive50e, adds an electric motor, boosting power to 483 hp and 516 lb-ft, and provides an EPA-estimated 40 miles of electric-only range. At the top of the model line is the M60i and its 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 pumping out 523 hp and 553 lb-ft. Of course if you require even more power, there's the potent X5 M, which we review separately.

　　

Competitors to consider

Most every luxury manufacturer offers an SUV in the midsize segment so the X5 has a fair bit of competition. The strongest rivals come from Germany in the form of the Mercedes-Benz GLE and the Porsche Cayenne. Other midsize luxury SUVs include the Land Rover Range Rover Sport, the Genesis GV80 and the Maserati Levante. If the X5 doesn't quite fit your lifestyle, BMW offers the smaller and versatile X3 and the larger three-row X7 SUV.

　　zzdcar says

　　On the heels of a styling refresh and interior update, we don't think the BMW X5 will arrive with any significant updates for the 2025 model year. We expect the X5 to remain a strong option in its segment thanks to its well-rounded performance and well-integrated technology.