Performance and Driving Impressions

From Car and Driver

Performance and Driving Impressions Rating:

In a package bearing the iconic BMW spinning-propeller logo at both ends, we expect a fair bit of driving pleasure, but the X5 finds us wanting more than it delivers. Steering, handling, ride comfort, and braking are uninspired, but the Bimmer’s range of engines-starting with an excellently balanced inline-six-are a bright spot in this mid-size crossover’s driving dynamics

Acceleration

None of the X5’s four powertrains will disappoint when it comes to acceleration, and all of them pack the right amount of gusto for urban errand-running as well as suburban highway slogs. We haven’t tested the V-8–powered xDrive50i since 2014, but its 4.3-second zero-to-60-mph run remains among the quickest in the mid-size crossover category.

Test Results: Acceleration, BMW X5

Test Results: Acceleration, BMW X5 Plug-in hybrid

Ride, Handling, and Steering

Although BMW is a sporting brand, we don’t get any tingly feelings from the X5; it’s reluctant to play, and while it isn’t terrible to drive on twisty roads, it also doesn’t inspire the way some of its rivals do-or the way the original X5 did. The X5’s steering is lightly weighted and not particularly communicative. Body roll isn’t well controlled, and the X5’s ride is often harsh over road imperfections. Our xDrive35i test vehicle came equipped with the optional adaptive suspension, but it doesn’t provide either an agreeable amount of ride comfort or much corner-carving prowess.

Test Results: Maximum Cornering Capability, BMW X5

Test Results: Maximum Cornering Capability, BMW X5 Plug-in hybrid

Braking

Our X5 xDrive35i’s brake pedal felt linear and confident right from the top of the pedal travel, braking performance was a lackluster 178 feet from 70 mph to a stop. Diesel and plug-in hybrid models fared better in our testing, but the hybrid’s pedal sometimes felt soft and disconnected due to that model’s regenerative-braking setup.

Test Results: Maximum Braking Capability, BMW X5

Test Results: Maximum Braking Capability, BMW X5 Plug-in hybrid

Test Results: Curb Weight and Weight Distribution, BMW X5

Test Results: Curb Weight and Weight Distribution, BMW X5 Plug-in hybrid

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