Written by Marco Carvajal
The BMW X5 has been made exclusively in the BMW Plant in Spartanburg, South Carolina, since production started about 20 years ago. The new 4th Generation 2019 BMW X5 xDrive continues to be made in the US. The X5 is a German-American SUV, proudly built in American soil.
More than 2 million X5’s have been sold worldwide, with one third of these units sold in the U.S. This SUV is close to become the number one model in sales for the German brand. It surpasses sales of the X3 and it is getting close to BMW’s number one seller 3 Series sedan. The X5 has been a global success.
As I test drive the X5 xDrive50i, I am trying to understand what is the key for the success of this SUV. Most of us perceive BMW is a well respected premium, luxury and great quality brand. Long tradition of good style and advanced German automotive architecture. But why is the X5 more successful than other vehicles within the brand? or more than other luxury brands SUVs?
Looking at all the power and style that is included on each X5 helps me understand the answer for the success of this SUV.
2019 BMW X5 xDrive50i Highlights
- 4.4-liter BMW TwinPower Turbo V-8 engine
xDrive - 8-speed automatic transmission with manual shifting mode
- Intelligent all-wheel drive
- 456 Horsepower
- Torque of 479 lb-ft
- 0 to 60 Miles per hour in 4.6 seconds
- 22 MPG average
- 21.9 Gallons Fuel Tank capacity
- MSRP Starting at $75,750
- Available in 2 styles: xLine and M Sport
X5 German-American SUV Powerful and Luxury
The X5 Sports Activity Vehicle, is now available with its 4th generation. The new X5 has more power, convenience, utility, technology and luxury than its previous generations.
The X5 has been linked to sports and athletic power since its beginning. BMW wants to demonstrate how luxury and performance can be merged into one powerful and beautiful driving machine.
In terms of design, the new generation X5 front has a new enlarged one-piece grille with much larger openings. Adding more style, adapted LED headlights are now standard, and BMW laser lights optional.
The 2019 X5 comes standard with 20-inch light-alloy wheels. The M Sport version includes 21-inch M light-alloy wheels. New sport options include BMW’s first-ever factory available 22-inch wheels.
On the rear of the X5 there is a two-section hatch to facilitate the loading of small articles, something practical but also helps to differentiate the new X5 line from its predecessors.
Inside
Inside the X5 there is pair of 12.3-inch screens, one for the instruments and one for infotainment. This driver’s ecosystem Live Cockpit provides all the information for the best driving experience and great performance. It can be integrated with the optional Head-Up Display for additional view.
The front seats are heated and electrically adjustable, with ventilation and massage are optional. The second row comes with a very convenient electric control to slide, tilt and bend the backrest.
A new larger Panoramic Moonroof provides beautiful visibility of the top exterior.
Optional Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Premium Sound System is available.
Third Row Seating
The New BMW X5 is now available with 3rd row seating, increasing capacity to 7 passengers. The 3rd row conveniently folds down into the floor as need it. Also included power split tailgate, and up to 72.3 cubic feet of cargo space.
Remote Engine Start and Comfort Access
For those who like convenience and saving time, Comfort Access is a BMW system that begins unlocking and activating the welcome carpet lighting as a person approach the X5 with the vehicle’s key. This system works very well with optional Remote Engine Start, as the car is turned on when you are approaching, just open the door, enter the cabin and drive away, without having to wait for the car to be turned on.
More Power 456 HP
456 HP is serious power, more horse power than the previous generation, and improved suspension with Dynamic Damper Control standard to have the X5 ready for any terrain.
The X5 is powerful and very comfortable on the road with standard dynamic shock absorbers. It is possible to upgrade to the optional Adaptive M Suspension Professional that adds active roll stabilization and rear wheel steering.
The 2019 BMW X5 xDrive50i includes for the first time ever, X5 factory installed trailer hitch, among many other new features on this all new forth generation
Latest BMW driving technology makes driving an X5 easier than ever with standard driver assistance functions, such as Blind Spot Detection, Lane Departure Warning, Rear Collision Warning, Frontal Collision Warning and Pedestrian Warning with City Collision Mitigation that alerts the driver if cyclists are detected, Cross Traffic Alert Rear, and Speed Limit Information, for a safer ride.
Impressive Optional Off-Road Package with Air suspension and New Rear Locking Offered in X model for the first time
The optional off-road package with enhanced 4 driving modes for sand, rock, gravel or snow is not a joke. This package provides serious performance that will be hard to see on any other SUV. This powerful package also offers a rear-locking differential. Enjoy adventure performance without losing the luxury feel of this BMW. This optional package costs approximately $4,000.
Trims
The all new X5 2019 is available in 2 trims:
- X5 xDrive50i
- X5 xDrive40i
- An X5 performance plug-in hybrid will be available very soon now during 2019
BMW made it easy to select your trim, either a 50i or 40i, in addition to available options. Also there will be a plug-in hybrid available soon.
You can choose between the X5 xDrive 40i with a 3.0-liter turbocharged in-line engine that produces 335 horsepower or the X5 xDrive 50i with a 4.4-liter V8 engine that generates 456 hp. Both power trains come with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.
xLine and M Sport Style Variations
The all new X5 is available with 2 main Styles. Distinctive design features differentiate the xLine and M Sport models. The standard xLine model includes a kidney grille bars finished in matte aluminum, underbody protection, roof rails and side window surrounds in satin Aluminum. The xLine style also includes accents in Pearl-effect Chrome.
M Sport style includes wheel arch trim, bumper trim, rear underbody protection and side skirts painted in body color and matte aluminum kidney grille bars. Roof rails and side window surround in high-gloss black.
Pricing
The X5 xDrive50i that I am test driving has a MSRP Starting at $75,750. This is the top of the line trim level for the X5. The entry level trim, 40i, is available at a lower cost.
For those BMW fans who value all what is included with this prestigious and luxury brand, the price might seem not too high. Especially considering that with the xDrive50i 2019 you are getting the top of the line and the all-new 4th generation model.
Besides the great appealing of the X5, the SUV market is very competitive and other brands offer premium quality SUVs at lower starting price, so there is a challenge for BMW and several choices for BMW buyers.
One of the aspects that many buyers have experienced with BMW is that parts, maintenance and repairs are usually easier to handle and at a lower cost than other premiums brands, making the X5 a smart choice for those that want to keep this SUV for several years and enjoy car ownership hassle-free. Buying the X5 with confidence is not a problem for those who know the brand and its great backup.
