Luxury Reviews

BMW X5 review: still the driver's luxury SUV

By Road Test Team15 Aug 20264.6

Rivals have closed the gap on comfort and technology. The X5 answers with a chassis that still feels a class apart.

What works

  • Outstanding body control
  • Excellent cabin quality
  • Wide powertrain choice

What doesn't

  • Options inflate the price
  • Firm ride on 21-inch wheels

The X5 remains unusual in this segment for how deliberately it has been tuned. Body control is tight without the ride turning brittle, and the steering has real weight and consistency.\n\nInside, material quality is excellent and the curved display arrangement is legible on the move. Space in the second row is generous and the boot is genuinely usable with the load cover fitted.\n\nThe main caveat is cost. The list price is only a starting point and a well-specified example climbs quickly. Large wheels also blunt the low-speed ride.

Verdict

Still the pick for anyone who wants a large luxury SUV that rewards driving.

The car reviewed

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