The BMW X5 M is an amazing mix of very high performance, luxurious accommodation and SUV practicality, but it doesn’t come cheap.
Pros Fabulous engine Superb handling Loads of technology
Cons Ageing looks Expensive to buy and run Not all the safety features are standard
The all-new 2020 BMW X5 M represents the third generation of the Bavarian automaker's sportiest X5 SUV. It's more powerful than the outgoing X5 M, with 33 horsepower more in standard trim and 50 extra horsepower in the Competition model. The rest of the changes are more evolutionary than revolutionary. Still, its resculpted sheetmetal, enhanced interior, and modernized technology help make the latest X5 M better than ever.
Pros Massive power, stunning acceleration, high-end interior appointments.
Cons Six-figure base price, stiff ride, complicated drive-mode system.
The 2020 BMW X5 M comes with all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 8-speed shiftable automatic.600 horsepower in standard trim and 617 hp with the Competition package.All-wheel-drive system tuned for maximum handling performance.Unique interior and exterior styling touches.
Pros Massive power from both twin-turbo V8 engines Rapid acceleration at any speed Impressive handling for such a big vehicle Includes modern refinements found in the standard X5
Cons Stiff and sometimes unyielding ride Small mirrors and thick roof pillars create large blind spots Not a lot of interior storage
Stunning speed and carpool-duty comfort in one pricey package. Once you’ve driven a BMW X5 M, you just might have a hard time convincing yourself that any other SUV will suffice. Could the dry cleaning be dropped off, the kids picked up, and the five-inch puddle from the broken water main be forded in a regular X5 or a Mercedes-Benz GLE-class? Surely.
Pros Absurdly quick, credibly seats five, luxurious interior comes standard.
Cons Comparatively small cargo hold, too many drive modes, lack of active safety tech.
The 2018 BMW X5 M handles everyday SUV duty with comfort, style and refinement. It's also ridiculously fast and cuts winding roads like a knife. How fast? It dashes from zero to 60 mph in 4 seconds flat, a shade faster than BMW's iconic M4 sport coupe. Now wondering whether you need an SUV that makes more than 500 horsepower or reaches a top speed of 160 mph misses the point. It's best to just marvel at a machine that can take you for both a sedate run to Costco, or to county jail for excessive speed, with such ease.
PROS Outlandish acceleration and handling for an SUV Interior materials are impeccable Front seats are comfortable and supportive
CONS No option for a third-row seat Sporty suspension may feel too firm for some drivers, passengers Gas pedal sometimes responds slowly in low-speed driving
A backup camera is now standard, as are trapezoidal tailpipes for the 35i and 35d models.The high-performance X5 M is powered by a twin-turbo 4.4-liter V-8 engine that makes 567 hp and 553 pounds-feet of torque. The engine works with an eight-speed automatic transmission, and power is routed to all four wheels. BMW says the X5 M can hit 60 mph in just 4 seconds. As expected of a performance offshoot, the X5 M has unique bumpers, aggressive side sills and highly bolstered sport seats.
Pros Seat comfort Handling Cabin materials Diesel's estimated fuel economy iDrive control system
Cons Leather upholstery not standard Awkward liftgate and tailgate combo
