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BMW X5 - What the Auto Press Says

The 2010 BMW X5 ranks 16 out of 16 Luxury Midsize SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 56 published reviews and test drives of the BMW X5, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The BMW X5 offers superior driving dynamics and a plush interior. Still, it's expensive compared to its rivals and some reviewers find the iDrive interior controls to be more trouble than they're worth.

If you value a sporty, luxurious ride above all else, the X5 is for you. With an optional third row, the X5 can even function as an upscale family hauler. However, you'd better be willing to pay a premium -- starting at nearly $48,000, the BMW is on the pricier side of its class.  Moreover, its base 15/21 mpg fuel economy rating, when compared to the rest of the class, is only about average. One advantage it has over competitors is its standard xDrive all-wheel drive system.

"X5 excels for its sporty handling and doesn't suffer as much as some BMWs from its iDrive control system," says Consumer Guide. "However, the navigation system is confounding, the available 3rd-row seat is a token gesture, and X5 is pricey, particularly in V8 form." For overall value, the diesel-powered xDrive35d model may be the best bet. Though it costs about $4,000 more than the base model, its 19/26 mpg rating is higher than most vehicles in its class (except the hybrid Lexus RX450h).

Those who can do without German driving dynamics may want to consider the more reasonably priced Acura MDX. It starts at around $5,000 less than the X5 and comes with a spacious three-row interior and smooth handling. The Lexus RX 350 is another good option because it will save you money and gas. It's one of the least expensive and best rated SUVs in its class and boasts an 18/25 mpg rating. It doesn't offer a third-row seat, but its cabin controls are more intuitive than those in both the Acura and BMW.

For 2010, the X5's iDrive system, which controls the car's information and entertainment functions, is updated for better usability. It also gets HD radio as standard and automatic high-beam headlights as a new option. If you can do without these tech updates, you might be better off opting for a 2009 model. You could snag a good deal as dealers make room on their lots for the new 2010s.

The X5 comes in three trims: the xDrive30i, xDrive48i and diesel-powered xDrive35d. For 2010, BMW also debuts a high-performance X5 M model, which will be reviewed separately.

• "As long as the price premium isn't too steep, there are few reasons not to choose the diesel X5 over its six- or even eight-cylinder gasoline counterparts." -- Edmunds
• "For those who love the feel and drive of a BMW, not to mention those who don't need a third row or a sport/ute capable of crawling over rocks, the new X5 is surely worth the premium." -- Motor Trend
• "All in all, we found this big vehicle to be a pleasure to drive with excellent road manners -- one of the best sport utilities that we have driven." -- MarketWatch
• "The presence of the old iDrive interface makes it hard to recommend this generation of the BMW X5 xDrive35d, and the diesel engine makes it more suitable for open-road conditions than congested city traffic." -- CNET
• "The X5 xDrive35d left me seriously conflicted. I defended it to my husband when he complained about its user unfriendliness, but I cursed it when he wasn't around to listen." -- Mother Proof

X5 Performance - 8.2 (Very Good)

The 2010 BMW X5 delivers especially sporty driving performance for an SUV. Its base engine offers plenty of power, while its optional V8 adds extra punch for true driving enthusiasts. There's also a diesel-powered model that improves on fuel economy while offering plenty of power. "Outstanding balance and grip make the X5 feel more like a sedan than an SUV," says Consumer Guide. "There's minimal body lean in turns, especially with the Sport Package." Read More

X5 Exterior - 8.4 (Very Good)

With sharp lines and a sporty, muscular stance, the 2010 X5's styling follows in the footsteps of the rest of BMW's fleet. "I loved the look of the X5 diesel," says Mother Proof. "In fact, it's fair to say that I think BMW makes attractive cars across the board. They have a rich yet sporty look about them, and the X5 diesel is no exception." Read More

X5 Interior - 8.2 (Very Good)

The 2010 X5 boasts available seating for seven and includes loads of high-tech features. "Ergonomically pleasing and attractively styled, the X5's interior has lost little of its class and quality," says Automobile Magazine. "Highs are the lovely round instruments, the tasteful mix of materials, and the large, in-dash color monitor; lows are second-rate plastics here and there, the pointless insert-key-then-push-button starter, and the absence of shift paddles." A major drawback is the X5's iDrive system (BMW's radio and climate controls), which can be frustrating and confusing to use. Some reviewers also complain about the X5's cramped third-row seat. Read More

X5 Safety - 9.7 (Excellent)

The 2010 BMW X5 does very well in federal government and insurance industry crash tests. The X5's standard safety features include hi-tech systems such as Dynamic Brake Control. Read More

X5 Reliability - 6.0 (Mediocre)

The 2010 BMW X5 reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The X5 comes with a four-year/50,000-mile basic warranty. Read More