BMW X5 2017 Review

We love:

• Drives really well for its size.
• Seven-seat option
• Great engines

Pain points:

• It's huge, and it feels big to drive
• Third row of seats is really squishy

BMW X5 2017 review

The latest BMW X5 is a definite upgrade on the previous model; it's quieter, smoother, has better handling, and more flexible spaces. This large SUV is so good as the standard model that we don't see a good reason to upgrade.

Exterior of the BMW X5 2017

From the dual chrome grille at the front to the tear-shaped tail-lights, bi-xenon headlights, the new X5 is boxy, but with smooth lines that provide an aerodynamic style, the BMW X5 has prestigious street appeal. Automatic headlights switch on in low light conditions.

BMW X5 is comfortable on dirt: Image courtesy of CarShowroom.

The split power rear tailgate makes it easier to open and close the boot, activated by a foot sensor below it. The X5 is fitted with 'run-flat' tyres which you can drive for up to 80 km after a puncture as long as you stick to 80km/h. If you have to go further, there's a space saver spare in all models except seven-seat options or the hybrid, where the battery pack takes up the spare wheel space.

Inside the BMW X5 2017

All models have dual zone climate control and powered front seats. While there are seven seats, there isn't much space in the third row. They're okay for children under nine years, but for anyone else you'd only want to squeeze in the back for a really short trip.

The driver's seat is very comfortable, especially if you've chosen the supportive sports seats, with options to adjust the steering wheel and seat to the perfect position. There's an option to add two 9.2-inch high resolution screens linked to a DVD drive, games console, and headphones for rear passengers.

Spacious cabin, decent tech in the X5: Image courtesy of Car Showroom

There are eight airbags throughout the car, and two cosmetic upgrades you can choose to update the interior finish, customising it to your particular taste from a selection of leather and other materials.

Boot space sits in the middle of this class at 1,870 litres with the seats up.

Connectivity

A 10.25-inch BMW iDrive entertainment system with nine-speaker radio/CD player is controlled by a rotary dial, with options for voice-control. A 20GB hard drive stores music and other media, plus there's digital radio and bluetooth connectivity for audio and phone calls.

The screen also displays the reversing camera, which on all but the lowest spec models shows you top and side views, as well as the rear view.

The more expensive options have a Harmon Kardon sound system.

What's it like to drive a BMW X5 2017?

The eight-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly, with paddle-shifters mounted to the steering wheel for when you want to be in control. If you've chosen the petrol-electric hybrid engine, you can charge the battery from your home power points, and short trips are almost totally silent.

City-speed auto-braking and front and rear parking sensors are standard across all models. The M Sport upgrade adds adaptive suspension that uses computer controlled damping to adjust the ride automatically to your driving conditions, it also sits lower to improve cornering.

Luggage room is ample in the X5: Image courtesy of CarShowroom

With such a huge range of engines to choose from, the driving experience can be fairly diverse. The triple-turbo X5 M 50d has a huge power output and sounds amazing too. Other diesel engine options offer excellent fuel economy, muscular towing, and effortless overtaking. Braked towing capacity is 2,700 kilograms.

If you're looking for speed and not concerned about fuel economy, the V8 petrol engine delivers on performance. The flip side of this is the hybrid, which allows you to take 25km trips on just the electric power, which can be fully recharged from your home power socket in about 5 hours.

Who's the BMW X5 2017 for?

This luxurious, practical car is made for city-based families.

Feature Summary

Price: from $86,200

Engine: 2.0L four-cylinder turbo diesel sDrive 25d, 3.0Lsix-cylinder turbo diesel (there's 3 variations of this engine: xDrive 30d, xDrive 40d & X5 M 50d), petrol electric hybrid xDrive 40e, 3.0L turbocharged six-cylinder petrol xDrive 35i; xDrive 30d, 4.4L V8 twin turbocharged xDrive 50i.

Transmission: Automatic RWD or AWD

Wheels: 19 or 20-inch

Safety: 5 star ANCAP

Fuel: 6.2L/100km

AV and tech: 10.25-inch BMW iDrive infotainment with rotary dial and 9-speaker audio.

Seats: 5 or 7

Doors: 5 door wagon

You can finance a BMW X5 2017 from $380/week*, get a quick quote to find out exactly what it will cost to embrace your true style.

No time to shop around for your car? Just tell us exactly what you want, including the features and colour. We will find the vehicle to match and negotiate the best price for you.

*Over a 5-year loan term.