Car and Driver BMW X5 Review: Power, Precision, and Premium Comfort

The BMW X5 continues to set the benchmark for midsize luxury SUVs, blending precision engineering with commanding performance—now redefined with the latest Car and Driver X5 review highlighting its refined ride and driver-focused tech.

The 2024 BMW X5 delivers a compelling powertrain lineup, including a robust 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six and a responsive 3.0-liter hybrid variant in select trims. This engine trio, praised by Car and Driver, offers 374 horsepower in the base model, paired with smooth automated transmissions that balance efficiency and responsiveness. With excellent fuel economy for its class and advanced torque vectoring, the X5 excels in both highway cruising and dynamic cornering—making it ideal for drivers who demand both comfort and capability.

Step inside, and the X5 reveals a sanctuary of luxury. Car and Driver’s review highlights meticulous attention to detail—from hand-stitched leather upholstery to ambient lighting that enhances relaxation. The intuitive iDrive 8.5 system features a crisp 14.9-inch touchscreen with seamless voice integration and over-the-air updates. Spacious seating accommodates five (or seven in higher trim) with ample legroom and soundproofing that masks road noise effortlessly—ideal for long journeys without compromise.

The X5’s driving dynamics center on driver engagement. Car and Driver commends its precisely balanced chassis, adaptive air suspension, and responsive steering—delivering a sporty yet comfortable ride. Advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a 360-degree camera system enhance confidence. With a user-friendly infotainment interface and intuitive controls, the X5 maintains focus on the road, making every drive both enjoyable and secure.

The BMW X5, as highlighted in Car and Driver’s latest review, remains a top contender in the luxury SUV segment—where power meets precision and comfort meets control. Whether navigating city streets or open highways, the X5 delivers an experience that elevates every journey. Ready to experience the difference? Visit your local dealer today or schedule a test drive to discover why the X5 continues to impress.

Read our 2026 BMW X5 review for information on ratings, pricing, specs, and features, and see how this SUV performed in our testing. 2025 BMW X5 xDrive40i First Test: Making a Great Case While the specific version we tested is now nearly impossible to get new, the goodness inherent in every X5 is available to all. See our expert review on the 2025 BMW X5 and where it ranks among other luxury midsize SUVs.

Research the ratings, prices, pictures, MPG and more. View all 68 consumer vehicle reviews for the 2025 BMW X5 on Edmunds, or submit your own review of the 2025 X5. The X5 gets BMW's fanciest driver assistance setups and the requisite digital dashboard, which means that a 14.9in infotainment touchscreen is standard on all cars, plus a 12.3in instrument panel.

The 2025 X5 xDrive40i earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick+. Check out Consumer Reports 2025 BMW X5 Road Test Report and expert reviews on driving experience, handling, comfort level, and safety features. The BMW X5 is a mid-size luxury crossover SUV produced by BMW.

[1] The X5 made its debut in 1999 as the E53 model. It was BMW's first SUV. At launch, it featured all-wheel drive and was available with either a manual or automatic gearbox.

The second generation was launched in 2006, and was known internally as the E70. The E70 featured the torque. Now, a quarter-century on, the 2025 BMW X5 xDrive40i is throwing it back to those off.

The X5 M60i provides power and poise while remaining compliant and practical enough for daily driving.