-
1
[1] 25 years ago, BMW gave us the X5, setting the benchmark for those that followed in its tire tracks. This best-selling midsize SUV gets a mid-cycle refresh for 2024 with new tech and design, so let's take a look at it, shall we?
-
2
[2] As you would expect, the X5 reflects BMW's sporty yet premium heritage. Fit, finish, and materials are all top-notch, even in entry-priced models. Sure, the base X5 gets the company's new vegan leather alternative called Sensatec, but it is available in a variety of colors. We particularly like the Cognac and Silverstone hues⁽¹⁾.
-
3
[3] Pay a bit more or climb up the trim ladder, and you'll get Merino leather, also available in multiple colors. Regardless, both surfaces are enhanced by your choice of open-pore, high-gloss, or matte-finish wood.
-
4
[4] If you really want to get fancy, some elements on the wide center console can be made of diamond-cut glass. You know, for those who want a little sparkly bling.
-
5
[5] Heated seats are standard across the board, and they are also power-adjustable with thigh support and driver-side memory. If you really want to be comfy, add the massage option and available heated armrests and steering wheel.
-
6
[6] You deserve it, right? You can also add ventilation, as well as heating elements for the rear seats, ensuring that everybody gets a comfy ride.
-
7
[7] New for 2024 is a 14.9-inch central display fitted in an elegantly curved glass housing. This large display seamlessly connects with the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster to create an impressively wide screen that spans much of the dash.
-
8
[8] You can operate this system by touch, voice, the rotary dial, or you can spring for the available gesture control. Yeah, it's a gimmick, but your kids might think it's cool. Oh, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, as does wireless charging.
-
9
[9] Every X5 gets things like blind-spot monitoring and lane departure warning, but all the high-tech stuff comes extra.
-
10
[10] However, we especially like the available highway assist that allows for hands-free driving on certain highways. It's worth the price if you spend a lot of time in the car.
-
11
[11] Rear seat passengers get over 37 inches of legroom, and the X5 can be outfitted with a very small third row, but we recommend stepping up to the X7 if you really need three rows of seating.
-
12
[12] The clamshell tailgate opens up to reveal nearly 34 cubic feet of space behind the second row, which should be plenty for family road trips or parental golf outings.
-
13
[13] The 2024 BMW X5 starts at $66,195, including destination, but the most powerful M60i trim comes in at over $90,000. That starting price is more than what you'll pay for a Mercedes-Benz GLE or Audi Q7, to say nothing of the savings you get by choosing a Genesis GV80 or Lexus RX.
-
14
[14] However, the BMW certainly should not be written off just by virtue of its starting price. After all, in this world, you get what you pay for.