2017 BMW X5

by BMW of Catonsville

Setting the pace for luxury SUVs

The BMW X5 was one of the first modern luxury SUVs, and it remains one of the best. BMW continues to build an SUV that stays true to its “Ultimate Driving Machine” mantra, as well as offering the convenience and technology features luxury buyers expect. The X5 also boasts an impressive variety of powertrains. All of that adds up to one of the most well-rounded vehicles in the segment.

Performance

The X5 continues to feature one of the most comprehensive engine lineups of any vehicle currently on sale, encompassing everything from a green plug-in hybrid option to a big V8. It also has the on-road poise and handling of a true BMW.

Arguably the most basic option is the 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six, which produces 300 horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque. It’s mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. BMW claims 0 to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds and a top speed of 130 mph. The EPA rates fuel economy at 21 mpg combined (18 mpg city, 25 mpg highway) with rear-wheel drive, and 20 mpg combined (18 mpg city, 24 mpg highway)* with all-wheel drive.

For buyers seeking greater fuel economy, BMW also offers a 3.0-liter turbocharged diesel inline-six, good for 255 hp and 413 lb-ft of torque. Available only with all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic, the diesel X5 achieves an impressive EPA-rated 25 mpg combined (23 mpg city, 29 mpg highway).* BMW also quotes 0 to 60 mph in 6.5 seconds, and a top speed of 130 mph.

Another green option is the X5 xDrive 40e plug-in hybrid model. It uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and an electric motor, which is integrated with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Total system output is 308 hp and 332 lb-ft, while 0 to 60 mph acceleration and top speed match the diesel X5. Efficiency ratings are 56 MPGe combined on electric power and 24 mpg combined on gasoline, with 14 miles of electric-only driving range.*

Features

The 2017 BMW X5 is a five-door, five-seat (a seven-seat configuration is optional) luxury Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV), which is the BMW brand's designation for SUV models. Pricing starts at $55,500.**

Standard features include 19-inch wheels, LED fog lights, Xenon Adaptive Headlights, power-folding heated exterior mirrors, 14-way power-adjustable power heated front seats, 40/20/20 split-folding rear bench seat, three-spoke power tilt and telescopic multifunction steering wheel, iDrive infotainment system with navigation and 10.2-inch touchscreen, automatic climate control, and more.

Optional features include 20-inch wheels, upgraded suspension with Dynamic Damper Control and rear air ride, Bang & Olufsen audio system, rear-seat entertainment system, Apple CarPlay™, front ventilated seats, aluminum running boards, rear window sunshades, automatic high beams, and soft-close automatic doors.

BMW also offers multiple option packages, including an M Sport styling package, Cold Weather Package (heated rear seats, headlight washers, heated steering wheel), Executive Package (soft-close automatic doors, head-up display, WiFi hotspot, ceramic controls), and other options.

Design

The 2017 BMW X5 features handsome exterior styling that nicely combines traditional SUV and BMW car styling cues. The front end is adorned with the automaker’s signature “twin kidney” grille and Xenon headlights with “Corona” rings, tying the X5 to other BMW models. The X5 also features clever “air curtains” that draw air through the front fenders and around the front wheels, eliminating a major cause of turbulence.

The interior has a sporty feel but is also functional. The horizontal dashboard is elegant and pleasing to the eye, and the traditional analog gauges are easy to read. BMW also equips the X5 with a nice three-spoke steering wheel that wouldn’t be out of place in one of the automaker’s sports sedans. The X5 offers plenty of interior flexibility, thanks to a 40/20/40 split-folding second-row bench seat, and an optional third-row bench that adds two more seats.

Safety

Standard safety equipment on the 2017 BMW X5 includes anti-lock brakes, stability and traction controls, and a full array of airbags. Optional features include Active Driving Assistant (lane departure warning, forward collision warning, City Collision Mitigation, Pedestrian Protection), adaptive cruise control, blind spot detection, surround-view camera system, speed-limit information, and night vision.

Verdict

The 2017 BMW X5 offers an impressive combination of luxury, technology, and performance that makes it worth consideration for any luxury SUV buyer.

For more information or to schedule a test drive of the 2017 BMW X5, contact us online or visit BMW of Catonsville at 6700 Baltimore National Pike, Catonsville, MD 21228.

* Preliminary consumption figures shown. Please go to bmwusa.com for latest available information. Your actual mileage will vary, depending on speed, driving habits, trip length and driving conditions; actual mileage may be lower.

** MSRP excludes destination & handling fee of $995, tax, title, license, and registration.

Image: BMW