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.
The 2019 BMW X6 pioneered the sloped-roof SUV segment and maintains high quality and performance, but it’s showing its age.
Pros Head-turning looks Strong powertrains Interior build quality Luxurious options
Cons Tight rear seat Measly cargo space Too expensive Not as fun as it could be
For 2019, the X6 receives several new standard features and revised option packages. Every model now features standard Apple CarPlay and these driver assists: automated emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and speed-limit information. The six-cylinder versions can now be had with the Convenience package, which adds four-zone automatic climate control, a one-year SiriusXM satellite radio subscription, and passive entry. Likewise, this package is now included with the M Sport package on six-cylinder models. The Premium package is updated to include self-parking assist, a head-up display, wireless charging, and a Wi-Fi hotspot; the Executive package adds soft-close doors, rear manually operated side window shades, adaptive headlights that turn with the steering wheel, and automatic high-beams.
Pros Spectacular powertrains, fantastic infotainment system, well-to-do interior.
Cons styling, compromised practicality, cost of options adds up fast.
More advanced driver safety aids are now standard.Apple CarPlay is now standard (subscription-based).The 2019 BMW X6 may be called a "coupe" by its makers' marketing wizards, but it's really a five-passenger midsize SUV with the boxy bit at the back chopped off.
PROS Engines provide strong acceleration Comfortable and quiet ride Quality interior with comfortable front seats
CONS Sloping roofline cuts down cargo space Hard to see out the back Limited rear headroom
