While the grandeur of the BMW X7 is undeniable, savvy buyers seeking Luxurious Suvs often find themselves drawn to the BMW X5. This isn’t merely about the more accessible price point; the X5 carves its own niche as a compelling choice, delivering opulence without compromise. Stepping inside the X5 is an immersion into a realm of high-quality materials. BMW has meticulously crafted an interior where virtually every surface you interact with exudes a plush, premium feel. Remarkably, this dedication to tactile and visually appealing finishes extends even to areas less frequently seen or touched, showcasing a commitment to holistic luxury. Complementing this lavish cabin is the X5’s infotainment system, widely recognized as one of the industry’s most intuitive and user-friendly, largely thanks to its signature rotary controller – a feature it shares with its larger sibling, the X7.
When it comes to powertrain options, the xDrive50e plug-in hybrid emerges as the most compelling choice, overshadowing even the petrol and diesel variants. This sophisticated system harmoniously blends a potent 3.0-litre six-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor, fueled by a substantial 25.7kWh battery. The result is an impressive official electric range of up to 65 miles, surpassing the plug-in hybrid capabilities of competitors like the Audi Q5 and Volvo XC90.
The integration of a large battery pack in the plug-in hybrid X5 does result in a slightly reduced boot capacity compared to conventional models. However, this compromise is minimal, and the available space remains more than adequate for accommodating holiday luggage and everyday cargo needs.
“I like the X5’s split tailgate – not only does it give you a shelf to rest larger items on when loading them, but also forms a handy picnic seat if you find yourself parked somewhere with a great view.” – Doug Revolta, Head of Video
For a comprehensive understanding, delve into our detailed BMW X5 review.