BMW X5 is undoubtedly one of the most popular luxury SUV’s of recent times. Since it’s debut in 1999, it has sold over 2.2 million units and is currently in its fourth generation. It is unknown to many that the X5 is not built on a light-truck chassis but actually shares its underpinnings with the BMW 5 Series sedan. So technically, it is still a crossover that seats 5 people but what an amazing crossover BMW has built!
We tested the top trim of the 2021 BMW X5, the m50i for a week. It was in a hue of purple, looked fantastic and drove like a boss.
The chassis design is based on a double-wishbone front axle and a five-link rear axle. This enables the X5 to deliver supreme traction on rough terrain, excellent dynamic responses and ride comfort in road driving.
The BMW X5 comes as standard with electronically controlled dampers that sharpen the car’s handling dynamics at the same time as increasing ride and suspension comfort.
With a top speed of 250 km per hour, the BMW X5 accelerates like a rocket and dashes from 0 to 100 km per hour in barely 4.3 seconds. The vehicle is very stable at highway speeds and the cabin has been insulated from road and wind noise. In the Sport driving setting, the roaring engine sound is audible inside the cabin and adds to the driving pleasure.
Fuel Economy is not the X5’s best selling point and needs a little bit of improvement. The combined average of 100 km is around 11.6 liters.
The new BMW X5 comes as standard with LED headlights, while BMW Laserlight with Adaptive LED Headlights are optional.
The precise character line in the car’s flanks, which rises up at the rear door, contributes to the modern appearance of the new X5. It defines the car’s powerful shoulders and feeds into the rear lights, which extend well into the flanks.
As a standard, the BMW X5 comes with 18 inch alloy wheels but the m50i trim features twin-spoke 20 inch light aluminum wheels.
In the rear, all the lights feature LED technology. The three-dimensional design of their glass covers lends them a sculpted, technical edge. Diagonal accent lines give the rear a compact and brawny appearance.
The 2021 BMW X5 is fitted as standard with electrically adjustable and heated sports seats. While, the m50i trim features multifunction seats with massage function and seat ventilation for the driver and front passenger.
The m50i offers a luxurious audio experience that is powered by the Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System connected to 20 speakers and a generating a 1,500-watt output. We can’t think of a better audio system.
The driver enjoys ideal all-round visibility, thanks to both the rear-view camera and the Top View, Panorama View and 3D View functions of Parking Assistant Plus, which create a 360-degree image of the vehicle and its surroundings in the Control Display.
In addition, drivers can use the Remote 3D View feature to access a three-dimensional live image of their vehicle and surroundings on a smartphone.
BMW X5 has a four-zone air conditioning system and a panoramic glass roof, whose clear surface is 30 per cent larger than previous models.
Passengers in the rear are spoilt for head and leg room. The seats are comfortable and three people can easily fit in. Even in longer rides, the overall ride-comfort is exceptionally high.
The luggage space in the X5 is huge. You can easily fit in three large suitcases and ample amount of loose cargo.
The BMW X5 comes as standard with electronically controlled dampers that sharpen the car’s handling dynamics at the same time as increasing ride and suspension comfort.
With a top speed of 250 km per hour, the BMW X5 accelerates like a rocket and dashes from 0 to 100 km per hour in barely 4.3 seconds. The vehicle is very stable at highway speeds and the cabin has been insulated from road and wind noise. In the Sport driving setting, the roaring engine sound is audible inside the cabin and adds to the driving pleasure.
Fuel Economy is not the X5’s best selling point and needs a little bit of improvement. The combined average of 100 km is around 11.6 liters.
BMW X5 Specs (m50i):
Engine: 4.4 Liter – 8 Cylinders Twin-Scroll Turbo Horsepower: 462 Bhp Torque: 650 Nm Drive System: Rear Wheel Drive Transmission: 8 Speed – StreptronicExterior:
The most striking feature of the front end is the large BMW kidney grille with single-piece surround.
The new BMW X5 comes as standard with LED headlights, while BMW Laserlight with Adaptive LED Headlights are optional.
The precise character line in the car’s flanks, which rises up at the rear door, contributes to the modern appearance of the new X5. It defines the car’s powerful shoulders and feeds into the rear lights, which extend well into the flanks.
As a standard, the BMW X5 comes with 18 inch alloy wheels but the m50i trim features twin-spoke 20 inch light aluminum wheels.
In the rear, all the lights feature LED technology. The three-dimensional design of their glass covers lends them a sculpted, technical edge. Diagonal accent lines give the rear a compact and brawny appearance.
Interior:
Full of premium materials, leather accents and hints of Swarovski crystals, the X5’s cabin is a very special place.
The 2021 BMW X5 is fitted as standard with electrically adjustable and heated sports seats. While, the m50i trim features multifunction seats with massage function and seat ventilation for the driver and front passenger.
The m50i offers a luxurious audio experience that is powered by the Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System connected to 20 speakers and a generating a 1,500-watt output. We can’t think of a better audio system.
The driver enjoys ideal all-round visibility, thanks to both the rear-view camera and the Top View, Panorama View and 3D View functions of Parking Assistant Plus, which create a 360-degree image of the vehicle and its surroundings in the Control Display.
In addition, drivers can use the Remote 3D View feature to access a three-dimensional live image of their vehicle and surroundings on a smartphone.
BMW X5 has a four-zone air conditioning system and a panoramic glass roof, whose clear surface is 30 per cent larger than previous models.
Passengers in the rear are spoilt for head and leg room. The seats are comfortable and three people can easily fit in. Even in longer rides, the overall ride-comfort is exceptionally high.
The luggage space in the X5 is huge. You can easily fit in three large suitcases and ample amount of loose cargo.
2021 BMW X5 price in UAE: Starting from AED 365,000
The m50i trim we tested is priced at AED 485,000 and BMW AGMC are running some exciting offers at the moment that include a 5 year warranty and a 5 year repair package.BMW X5 Ratings
-
Performance - 9.2/10
9.2/10
-
Driving Pleasure - 9.2/10
9.2/10
-
Looks and Style - 9/10
9/10
-
Fuel Economy - 6.8/10
6.8/10
-
Value for Money - 7.7/10
7.7/10
8.4/10
Summary
The new BMW X5 is elegant looking, has a sporty character and drives like a champion. This is the simple reason why it has sold over 2 million units in 20 years.
Pros
- Powerful Engine
- Sporty yet Stylish Exterior
- Luxurious Cabin
- Air Suspension
Cons
- Expensive
- Not a full 4×4
