2009 BMW X5
- 2010 BMW X5
- Used BMW X5
Based on analysis of 54 X5 reviews and test drives.
BMW X5 - What the Auto Press Says
The 2009 BMW X5 ranks 13 out of 14 Luxury Midsize SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 54 published reviews and test drives of the BMW X5, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The BMW X5 offers superior on-road performance and a plush interior, but can't do much in the way of off-roading. Another low point is its iDrive control system, which many reviewers find confusing.
Still, Consumer Guide says, "X5 excels for its sporty handling and doesn't suffer as much as some BMWs from its iDrive control system. However, the navigation system is confounding, the available 3rd-row seat is a token gesture, and X5 is pricey, particularly in V8 form. The price premium, though, is partially offset by strong resale values." In fact, the X5 received a 2007 award for its history of high resale value. Those who don't need the absolute highest-rated driving performance available in an SUV can spend less by going with the capable Acura MDX.
For 2009, the X5 adds the diesel-powered xDrive35d model to its line-up. It also comes in two other trims -- the xDrive30i and xDrive48i -- which feature two different engines.
- "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 2009 BMW X5 delivers especially sporty driving performance for an SUV. The standard six-cylinder engine in the 3.0si is plenty strong for a family drive, while the 350-horsepower V8 in the xDrive48i adds the punch desired by true driving enthusiasts. For 2009, there's also a diesel-powered model. "Compared with the Mercedes-Benz M-Class, the new X5 is still a little firmer, edgier and more aggressive in the way it translates driver inputs," says Automobile Magazine. Read More
X5 Exterior - 8.4 (Very Good)
The BMW X5's sleek look, which increased in size with its 2007 redesign, impresses most reviewers. "The sloping hood evokes a sports car, while the raised haunches suggest ruggedness. The look matches the feel," says U.S. News reviewer Rick Newman. Read More
X5 Interior - 8.2 (Very Good)
The 2009 X5 boasts seating for seven and includes loads of high-tech features. "Interior materials exhibit a nice blend of durability and luxury, and are assembled with care," says Consumer Guide. However, 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 third-row seat. Read More
X5 Safety - 9.7 (Excellent)
The 2009 BMW X5 does very well in federal government crash tests. It's also one of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's "Top Safety Picks" for its scores of "Good" in frontal offset and side impact tests. The X5's standard safety features include Dynamic Stability Control. Read More
X5 Reliability - 6.0 (Mediocre)
The 2009 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
