The 2017 BMW X5 remains one of the top picks in the very competitive midsize luxury SUV class. Strong performance, a luxurious cabin and an efficient diesel engine option help distinguish it from its accomplished rivals.
Pros Strong performance from every model Luxurious and comfortable cabin that lives up to its price tag Optional diesel engine is as potent as it is efficient A long list of optional features allows for a wide range of customization.
Cons Less legroom in the second row compared to some of its competitors Optional third-row seats are tight even for children.
The 2017 BMW X5 boasts a solid set of powertrains and features that move the sedan toward the top of any list of luxury SUVs. BMW's charge into every SUV segment hasn't watered down the one that started it all. The 2017 BMW X5 is a benchmark for luxury SUVs and the bar by which many are compared. Its off-road ability is eclipsed only by its on-road manners, and its interior style and comfort make this SUV a must-see for shoppers.
Pros Bright and stunning interior cabin Very advanced safety features available Strong powertrains, top to bottom Comfortable and quick
Cons Exterior is languishing, a bit Very small third row Price can balloon up to six figures (!) now Hybrid isn't very fuel efficient either.
Visually, this hybrid X5 is differentiated only by minor details, such as the door on the front fender that houses the charge port and the model-specific badging inside and out. In this way, this X5 mostly hides the fact that it's electrified; you can even opt for 19- or 20-inch wheels or an M Sport package, further obscuring the fact that it’s designed to save energy, not waste it M-style. One of the hybrid’s disadvantages is its smaller cargo hold, which shrinks significantly in order to make room for the lithium-ion batteries. And in a prototype that we drove last year, the switch between electric and gasoline-fueled travel was discernible, although we expect that issue to be ironed out by the time of launch. Taking into consideration the considerable extra heft and the expected higher cost, drivers of all stripes—eco-minded, performance-minded, and everyone in between—might conclude that they’re better off with a nonhybrid gasoline or diesel X5. But as we know, it’s government regulations that are providing the impetus behind automakers’ rush to plug-ins, not consumer demand—at least not yet.
Pleasant to drive and built to a price, the 2017 BMW X1 is a mainstream subcompact crossover that is pleasant to drive but lacks the brand's "ultimate driving machine" performance. The 2017 BMW X1 sits apart from other BMWs. With its front-wheel-drive, Mini-sourced platform, is the brand's entry-level subcompact crossover and a more mainstream, less passionate vehicle than you would expect from BMW. It is offered as the front-drive sDrive28i and the all-wheel-drive xDrive28i, the former added for 2017.
Pros Crossover utility Gutsy turbo 4-cylinder Good rear-seat space Fairly thrifty fuel economy Competitive price of entry
Cons Prices climb quickly with options Some cost-cutting in interior trim Driver assists cost extra Poor front seats
The BMW X1 offers shoppers in the compact luxury crossover category an intriguing blend of performance, comfort and utility. If you're looking for something that cleverly blurs the line between a low-slung sedan and a high-riding SUV, the X1 is worth a test drive. The 2017 X1 is BMW's smallest and most affordable utility vehicle, yet it offers a surprising amount of passenger and cargo space. It delivers trademark BMW quality inside and out, and despite having less power than earlier versions, the X1 still accelerates and handles better than most in its class.
Pros Strong performance from its turbocharged engine One of the best-handling compact luxury crossovers you're going to find More rear passenger and cargo room than most other competitors High-level interior fit, finish and materials
Cons Standard sport suspension can be jarring on rough roads Steering feels less precise than some of BMW's sport sedans.
The 2017 BMW X1 ranks 1 out of 5 Luxury Subcompact SUVs. The 2017 BMW X1 finishes near the top of our luxury subcompact rankings because of its good performance, upscale and spacious interior, and outstanding cargo space for the class.
Pros Quick acceleration Athletic handling Roomy back seat Outstanding cargo capacity
Cons No standard driver assistance features
