When considering luxury SUVs, the market is brimming with options, but the BMW X5 consistently emerges as a top contender. Often overshadowed by its larger sibling, the BMW X7, the X5 presents a compelling case for itself, primarily thanks to its more accessible price point without compromising on luxury or quality. For those seeking entry into the realm of premium SUVs, the X5 is an excellent place to start.
Uncompromising Interior Luxury
Stepping inside the BMW X5 is an exercise in refined taste. It’s immediately apparent that cost savings compared to the X7 haven’t translated to a cheapened experience. The interior of the X5 is swathed in high-quality materials. Every surface that you interact with regularly is soft to the touch and exudes a sense of opulence. Remarkably, BMW extends this attention to detail to areas less frequently seen or touched, ensuring a consistently premium ambiance throughout the cabin. This dedication to material quality elevates the X5 above many competitors in the luxury SUV segment.
Class-Leading Infotainment System
The infotainment system in the X5 remains a benchmark in the automotive industry. Its intuitive rotary controller, a feature also found in the flagship X7, makes navigating menus and accessing features remarkably easy and less distracting than touch-only systems. This user-friendly interface is a significant advantage, making the X5’s technology genuinely enjoyable and practical to use daily. In a market where complex infotainment systems can be a source of frustration, the X5 stands out for its user-centric design.
The Alluring Plug-in Hybrid: xDrive50e
While BMW offers both petrol and diesel variants of the X5, the xDrive50e plug-in hybrid (PHEV) is arguably the most compelling powertrain option. This model combines a potent 3.0-litre six-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor and a substantial 25.7kWh battery. This combination allows for an impressive official electric range of up to 65 miles. This electric range surpasses plug-in hybrid versions of rivals like the Audi Q5 and Volvo XC90, making the X5 xDrive50e a leader in its class for electric driving capability. For those looking to reduce their emissions and running costs, the PHEV X5 is a standout choice within the luxury SUV landscape.
Practicality Considerations
The integration of a large battery pack in the plug-in hybrid X5 does result in a slightly reduced boot space compared to non-hybrid models. However, this compromise is unlikely to be a significant drawback for most owners. The boot remains generously sized and capable of accommodating substantial luggage, easily handling holiday travel or family gear. The practicality of the X5 remains a strong point, even in its electrified form.
In conclusion, the BMW X5 firmly deserves its place among the Top Ten Luxury Suvs. It offers a compelling blend of luxury, advanced technology, and, particularly in xDrive50e guise, impressive efficiency. For buyers seeking a premium SUV that balances opulence with practicality and value, the BMW X5 is an exceptional vehicle to consider and should definitely be on your shortlist.
