Still a Legend or Time to Pass the Crown?
Luxury SUVs are evolving fast—electrified, AI-loaded, and wallet-friendly options are flooding the market. But in this race toward futuristic, affordable utility, one question remains: Is the BMW X5 still the king?
With the 2025 refresh, BMW reclaims the spotlight, sharpening its tech edge while holding onto the powerful performance and premium feel it’s famous for. But as rivals like the Genesis GV80, Lexus RX, and even the Tesla Model X close in, does the X5 still justify its higher price tag?
This guide takes a deep dive into what’s new, what’s smart, and who the X5 is really for in 2025.
Table of Contents
What’s New and Why It Matters
The 2025 BMW X5 arrives with upgraded infotainment, semi-autonomous driving, and a mild hybrid boost. BMW didn’t reinvent the X5—it refined it. For 2025, all models now feature a curved dual-screen setup (12.3″ digital cluster + 14.9″ infotainment), iDrive 8.5 software with AI-enhanced voice assistant, and improved plug-in hybrid range (now 40 miles EV-only in the xDrive50e).
Why it matters:
- Smarter cabin = Less distraction, more luxury.
- 48V mild-hybrid tech boosts both power and efficiency.
- PHEV model gets greener without compromising on BMW punch.
Key Specs or Features at a Glance
| Feature | 2025 BMW X5 xDrive40i | xDrive50e (PHEV) |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.0L I6 Turbo + Mild Hybrid | 3.0L I6 + Plug-in Hybrid |
| Horsepower | 375 hp | 483 hp (total system) |
| 0-60 mph | 5.3 seconds | 4.6 seconds |
| EV-only Range (PHEV) | N/A | ~40 miles |
| Combined MPG / MPGe | 25 mpg | 58 MPGe |
| Starting Price (USD) | $66,000 | $73,000 |
| Towing Capacity | 7,200 lbs | 5,952 lbs |
| Seating | 5 (optional 3rd row) | 5 |
Real-World Impact: Who This Vehicle Is For
The BMW X5 is for buyers who want luxury, performance, and new tech—but don’t want to give up gasoline entirely (yet). If you’re a suburban commuter, an occasional off-roader, or someone who just wants a smart-looking family SUV that makes a statement, the X5 remains a top-tier pick.
It’s ideal for:
- Professionals in their 30s–50s seeking a status vehicle
- Families needing safety + space
- Drivers transitioning toward electrification without going full EV
Fuel or Battery Efficiency – Breaking It Down
Efficiency gets a meaningful bump in 2025, especially in the plug-in hybrid.
- xDrive40i: 25 mpg combined (better than rivals like Audi Q7 or Mercedes GLE)
- xDrive50e PHEV: 58 MPGe with 40 miles of all-electric range
That’s enough for many commuters to do daily trips gas-free—a huge cost and emissions saver.
Annual Cost Comparison vs Similar Models
| Model | Annual Fuel Cost | Maintenance (5-Year Avg) | Total 5-Year Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| BMW X5 xDrive40i | ~$2,100 | ~$5,000 | ~$15,500 |
| BMW xDrive50e (PHEV) | ~$1,300 | ~$5,200 | ~$13,700 |
| Genesis GV80 2.5T AWD | ~$2,000 | ~$4,800 | ~$14,800 |
| Tesla Model X (Dual Motor) | ~$850 | ~$3,500 | ~$12,100 |
| Lexus RX 500h F Sport | ~$1,600 | ~$4,200 | ~$13,400 |
Estimates based on 15,000 miles/year, $3.80/gallon gas, and standard maintenance
AI & Smart Features – What You’re Really Getting
BMW’s new iDrive 8.5 is smarter, faster, and voice-controlled like never before. It learns your routes, adjusts cabin settings based on preferences, and even supports over-the-air updates for new features.
Cool smart features:
- BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant (think Siri for your car)
- Augmented Reality Navigation
- Parking Assistant Pro: auto-park + reverse memory
- Level 2 semi-autonomous driving on highways
“The 2025 X5’s digital interface is smoother than Mercedes MBUX and less gimmicky than Tesla,” says auto analyst Mark Jefferson.
Performance, Safety, and Comfort
BMW DNA still runs strong in the X5, delivering smooth yet aggressive driving.
- Acceleration: Sporty feel with near-instant torque in the PHEV
- Suspension: Adaptive dampers + optional air suspension for buttery ride
- Brakes: Responsive and regenerative (on the PHEV)
- Safety: Standard suite includes lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise
Ride quality stays top-notch, even over broken roads—a real win for U.S. buyers outside big cities.
Design and Build: Looks + Function
Still muscular, still clean, and now sharper inside.
- Exterior: Big kidney grille, updated LED DRLs, athletic stance
- Interior: New ambient lighting, curved dual-display dashboard, leatherette standard (leather optional)
- Cargo space: 33.9 cu ft behind 2nd row / 72.3 cu ft with seats down
BMW didn’t try to reinvent the wheel—it just polished it. You won’t find wild EV-inspired designs here, and that’s a good thing for many buyers.
What Makes This a Game-Changer (or Not)
The X5 doesn’t change the game—it reasserts its dominance in the category. While rivals aim to shock with EVs or weird UX, BMW focuses on balance. The 2025 X5 proves you can evolve without alienating.
But it’s not cheap and not 100% electric—a plus or minus depending on your goals.
Expert Opinions & Industry Buzz
“BMW knows its audience. The X5 remains a gold standard in blending old-school luxury with new-world tech,” says J.D. Power reviewer Elaine Cruz.
“The PHEV model hits the sweet spot for drivers not ready to go full EV but still want that fuel savings,” adds MotorTrend’s Carl DuPont.
Reviewers widely praise the handling, tech updates, and plug-in hybrid refinement—but warn about high costs with options.
Challenges or Limitations to Consider
The X5 is excellent—but not perfect.
- High base price ($66K–$73K before options)
- Fully-loaded trims easily hit $90K+
- EV-only range (40 mi) is great but won’t cover road trips
- 3rd-row seating is tight and optional
Future Roadmap: What’s Next for This Brand
BMW is going bigger on electrification—but at its own pace.
- All-new BMW X5 EV rumored for 2026 (Neue Klasse platform)
- More AI-driven features to be OTA-installed mid-2025
- Improved PHEV range and battery chemistry coming soon
Conclusion: Should You Buy It?
If you want the smartest blend of tech, performance, and prestige in a mid-size SUV, the X5 is still a top contender in 2025.
The new X5 doesn’t rewrite the luxury rulebook—but it doesn’t have to. It perfects what loyal BMW buyers already love and adds just enough future-readiness for a world heading toward electrification.
Buy it if:
- You want luxury with some electrification
- You prefer familiar controls over radical EV interfaces
- You care as much about the drive as the features
Skip it if:
- You want a full EV or under-$50K price
- You need roomy 3rd-row seating
FAQs
1. Is the 2025 BMW X5 fully electric?
No. The X5 comes in gas, mild hybrid, and plug-in hybrid versions. A full EV is expected in the next generation.
2. What’s the best X5 model to buy in 2025?
The xDrive50e PHEV offers the best mix of power and fuel savings if you can charge regularly.
3. How does the BMW X5 compare to Tesla Model X?
The X5 feels more refined and traditional; Tesla wins on tech integration and full electrification.
4. Can the X5 handle snow or off-roading?
Yes, especially with xDrive AWD and optional off-road package. Still more of a highway SUV than a trail crawler.
5. Is the BMW X5 worth the price?
If luxury, brand value, and performance matter to you, yes. But value buyers might consider the Genesis GV80 or Lexus RX.
6. How much can the X5 tow?
Up to 7,200 lbs for gas models—great for boats or light campers.