BMW X5 2024: Luxurious and Competent

The BMW X5 is popular, and not without reason. It must be said that the large SUV from the German manufacturer has everything it takes to please. Its towing capacity is among the highest in its class, and it's a model capable of leaving many exotic cars in the dust in its ultimate configuration. However, even the most basic BMW X5 has some great qualities to offer, which is why the model ranks among the best sellers in its category.

The year 2024 brings several improvements to the BMW X5, especially in terms of wheels and color choices. Some visual body elements have also been revised. The biggest change is the multimedia system, whose design has been completely revamped. This new interface is even more enjoyable to use than the previous one. Once again, BMW has focused its efforts in the right places, and the result is impressive.

Range and Prices

The 2024 BMW X5 starts at a price of $86,000 plus transportation and preparation fees, which remains in the good average for its category. However, this figure is only for reference, as few buyers stick to the base version with this type of model. In fact, I believe that the BMW X5 is a vehicle you acquire for pleasure, which is why you should not hesitate to choose options.

• xDrive40i – $89,152
• xDrive50e – $93,652
• M60i xDrive – $109,782
• X5M – $154,182

Category and Competition

The luxury midsize three-row SUV segment is one of the most fiercely competitive categories. While price is important here, it's features like performance and variety that lead buyers to one model over another. Fortunately, the BMW X5 has all the advantages on its side, and I would even go so far as to say that it's a true benchmark in its category.

Rivals: Acura MDX, Audi Q7, Buick Enclave, Cadillac XT6, Genesis GV80, Infiniti QX60, Land Rover Discovery, Range Rover Sport, Lexus GX, Lexus RX, Lexus TX, Lincoln Aviator, Maserati Levante, Mercedes-Benz GLE, Porsche Cayenne, Tesla Model X, Volvo XC90

Design and Technologies

Once again, BMW has done a fantastic job with the design of its 2024 X5. While the improvements are subtle, they are numerous nonetheless. The headlights are slightly slimmer, adding a touch of aggression to the X5's design. Additionally, the Bavarian manufacturer's SUV now has new wheel options that completely change its personality. The 2024 BMW X5 is simply more modern, elegant, and robust. Somehow, the Bavarian manufacturer has managed to give the impression that its SUV underwent a complete overhaul when it's just a simple update.

Inside, the first thing that catches the eye is the dashboard, especially the multimedia system, which is now integrated into the dashboard on a single screen. I'm not particularly a fan of this design, but it's still nice to see an evolution at this level. This new screen is accompanied by the iDrive 8 system, which is significantly more enjoyable to use than the previous version.

Performance

This is where things get interesting for the Bavarian manufacturer's SUV, which offers four mechanical options. First, there's a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine that produces 375 horsepower and 298 pound-feet of torque in the xDrive40i version. Next is the xDrive50e version, which features the same engine with the addition of a large electric motor and a battery for a total output of 483 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. This version can also travel up to 63 kilometers in 100% electric mode. The M60i version gets a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine producing 523 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque. Finally, the M Competition version tops the range with a 4.4-liter V8 as well. However, its power is boosted to 617 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 100 in under 3.9 seconds.

Weak Points

Its infotainment system was almost its only weakness, and this is something that the Bavarian manufacturer has addressed for 2024, leaving us with an almost flawless BMW X5.

Strengths

The BMW X5 is a vehicle that has very little to fault. It turns heads wherever it goes. The German manufacturer offers several customization options, which is not the case with most of its competitors. The X5 has multiple mechanical options, and the M Competition version offers breathtaking performance. Its price remains reasonable considering what it offers, regardless of the version you choose.

Signature Element

The 2024 BMW X5 is one of the rare luxury SUVs that ticks all the boxes. Its towing capacity is phenomenal, not to mention its performance. The German manufacturer's SUV also offers one of the most efficient PHEV versions in its category and even on the market in general. Add to that its dynamic design and modern interior, and you get a vehicle that comes close to perfection, nothing less.

Final Thoughts

BMW was one of the first luxury car manufacturers to offer truly compelling SUVs. The 2024 BMW X5 is the result of all that experience, which is why it has virtually no flaws. Of course, there's a price to pay for all of this, but the Bavarian manufacturer's SUV remains relatively affordable compared to some of its competitors, which can sometimes cost several hundred thousand dollars. In my opinion, the BMW X5 is one of the best options available in the midsize luxury vehicle segment.

Jean-Sébastien Poudrier