2019 BMW X5 First Drive Review: Your New Go-Anywhere Luxury SUV Has Arrived

Gone are the days of the ultimate driving machine. Welcome to the dawn of something much more advanced.

I can still remember my childhood days when the adults around me would speak of BMW in hush tones as if owning one would be far beyond my mortal grasp. Ultimate driving machines they were called – not exactly a false statement as I've come to learn driving cars like the E46 M3 and E39 M5. Today, however, BMW doesn't just build the ultimate driving machine, it builds plenty of ordinary cars, crossovers, and SUVs too, including the X5, which it calls a Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV).

Driving pleasure is no longer at the top of most shopper’s lists. In fact, I would hazard a guess that it doesn't even crack the top ten of car buying choices anymore. Modern shoppers want luxury, connected features, safety options, and so much more. Driving pleasure is almost an afterthought. So, in this new age of connected driving, is BMW still the ultimate driving machine, or has it morphed into something new?

First Impressions

We were in sunny Atlanta, Georgia, to test the all-new 2019 X5. From the outside, it would be easy to mistake the 2019 X5 as just a heavy refresh of the previous model. Don't be fooled, while the design isn't exactly a revolutionary departure, this 2019 X5 isn’t just some mid-cycle refresh, it is the all-new fourth generation model known under the code G05.

The X5 is an extremely important model for BMW. 617,000 units of the first generation were sold, 728,000 of the second-gen model, 759,000 of the third, and over 2.1 million in total. It was imperative that BMW got this new X5 right, and on first impressions, there's a lot to love about the new SAV.

Pricing And What's Under The Hood

The X5 doesn't come cheap - that being said, you do get a lot for your money. In the US, the base trim level is the xDrive40i, which is powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six (B58) producing 340 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque mated to an eight-speed automatic. The xDrive40i starts at $61,195.

There will also be an optional xDrive50i trim for the US market only, which is powered by a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 pumping out 462 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque. All of that extra grunt comes at a cost: the xDrive50i model starts at a whopping $76,745. In 2020, BMW will also add a plug-in hybrid variant called the xDrive45e iPerformance, which will pair two electric motors with an inline-six to produce 394 hp and 442 lb-ft of torque and 50 miles of electric range.

BMW will also offer a pair of diesel engines in Europe in the xDrive30d and M50d trims. Both were present at the launch event, but only European journalists were allowed to get their paws on them. The M50d looks particularly intriguing thanks to its quad-turbocharged inline-six producing 400 hp and 560 lb-ft of torque. Sadly, neither diesel engine will be offered in the US.

Standard And Optional Equipment

With a starting price of over $60,000, you'd expect the X5 to come with a variety of standard equipment. While your expectations would turn out to be correct, this is still a BMW, so many of the features found on my xDrive40i test car were optional extras, bringing the price above $81,000 as-tested.

BMW handed me the keys to a Phytonic Blue Metallic X5 with the Premium and Executive tiers, which bring the cost up to $70,650 by themselves. These tiers add luxury features such as parking assist plus, a surround-view camera, head-up display, wireless charging, WiFi hotspot, gesture controls, remote engine start, soft-close doors, heated and cooled cupholders, rear window shades, and adaptive LED laser headlights.

My car was equipped with the optional 21-inch Y-spoke wheels but 22-inch wheels are also available for the first time ever on an X5. Trust me, the 21s are big enough.

A Lovely Place To Sit

I have been very critical of BMW interiors in the past but the X5 shut me up real quick. The simplistic BMW layout is still present, but the execution is finally on par with the rest of the segment in terms of elegance and technology. Optional interior extras included the luxury seating package with massage, Harmon Kardon surround sound, a panoramic glass roof, extended leather, heated rear seats and steering wheel, and open-pored wood trim. BMW also offers a more expensive Bowers and Wilkins audio system with 20-speakers and 1,500 watts proving a symphony that is among the best I've ever heard in a car.

My favorite option was easily the glass controls for $650. This replaces the shifter and iDrive controller diamond-cut glass with an illuminated "X" housed on the inside. Volvo may have beaten BMW to the glass shifter game, but this is perhaps the centerpiece of the whole interior and is a must-have option in my opinion.

BMW will also offer the X5 with an available third-row seat. I didn't have an opportunity to squeeze myself into it but judging by the proportions of the car, it will only be suitable for small adults and children. Third-row aside, the X5 offers excellent front-row comfort and adequate rear-seat comfort.

BMW has made a bold decision to install USB-C ports instead of standard USB outlets, which may pay dividends in the coming years but force you to run out and buy new cables for your children. My test car was also fitted with a few handy dealer-installed options including a coat hanger behind the rear seat and an ashtray in the cup holder.

Technology Overload

The 2019 X5 is a technophile's dream. BMW's new iDrive 7 infotainment system, which will be called Operating System 7.0 in other markets, pairs an easy-to-use controller with a new touchscreen, gesture controls, and excellent voice commands. The gesture controls allow the driver and passenger to control functions such as radio volume and Bluetooth by waving their hand in certain patterns. I found it to be a bit gimmicky, and as a person who talks a lot with their hands, I could see it being a bother in everyday use.

The point is that no matter which method you end up choosing, iDrive 7 gives you plenty of ways to control the car, so everyone will likely land on something they prefer. The system also includes wireless Apple CarPlay compatibility (at a cost) but sadly no Android Auto support. Frankly, when an infotainment system is this advanced, you don't really need CarPlay or Android Auto.

Out With The Old, In With The New (Screens)

BMW has been very set in its ways with certain design elements, including its classic gauges. The last BMW 4 Series I tested still had the old analog gauges, which look extremely dated compared to other cars in 2018. The X5 ditches the analog unit in favor of a beautiful LED screen, which can display map information, adaptive cruise control settings, radio information, and more.

This same display will also make an appearance on the upcoming Z4 and 8 Series. BMW hasn't gone as far as Mercedes by making the gauge cluster and infotainment screen one big connected unit, but this new digital gauge cluster finally pushes the interior into the 21st century.

Just Let Me Drive

Up until this point, my opinions of the X5 have been overwhelmingly positive. Alas, I must voice one gripe with the car. The X5 is available with a host of driver safety features found in the $1,700 Driving Assistance Plus Package that uses cameras and radars to provide partly-automated driving including steering, braking, and throttle.

The adaptive cruise control worked flawlessly, but the automated steering made me physically ill. My co-pilot tested the system on the highway and on back roads to see how well it could keep us in our lane, and the system bounced back and forth like a ping pong ball.

When it was my turn to drive, I left the system on for some spirited back road driving, and it felt like the car was trying to yank the wheel out of my hand. Eventually, I decided to turn the systems off so I could enjoy the road, but this required a complicated sequence of button clicks on the iDrive system accompanied by a final three-second confirmation push of a button on the dashboard.

Remember at the beginning when I said driving pleasure wasn't at the top of shopping lists anymore? Having to hold a button for three seconds just to turn off adaptive steering is a pretty good indication of my point - BMW wants these systems to remain active to the point that it makes it difficult to shut them off. The driving aids likely have varying levels of assistance that can be turned up or down, but on my brief drive, I just decided to leave them all off.

Has It Still Got The BMW Magic?

While I'd struggle to call it the ultimate driving machine, the X5 wasn't really designed with pure driving pleasure in mind. Yet it's still lovely from behind the wheel.

BMW steering is often heavy, but the X5's is extremely light - almost too light - but I'm sure the upcoming X5 M will take care of that complaint. The car is easy to place on a back road (once you turn off the steering assist) and is among the most enjoyable BMW models I've driven recently.

The base suspension is a double-wishbone axle in the front with a five-link axle in the rear, while self-leveling air suspension is optional. I had a chance to sample a car with the optional air suspension, which allows the driver to feel the road imperfections without sacrificing too much comfort. Although the car manages to stay surprisingly flat through the corners, I found myself falling out of my seat due to the tall center of gravity and lack of side bolsters. There is a bit more road noise than I anticipated on the highway, the large wheels probably contributing to that.

BMW's Signature Dish, The Inline-Six

If I had to choose one feature to rave about on the new X5 (aside from the glass shifter), it would be the B58 engine. This 3.0-liter inline-six is the current sweetheart of the BMW lineup, better even than the S55 found in the M3 and M4. BMW's bread and butter has always been the inline-six engine, and this one is frankly near to perfection. There is some turbo lag off the line, though this is a vehicle with a nearly 6,000-lb curb weight. Lay on the throttle, and you will be rewarded with a smooth growl accompanied by little pops when you shift or let off the pedal. Once you hit boost, power delivery is extremely smooth and the eight-speed gearbox shifts as smooth as a CVT (in a good way).

0-60 mph in the xDrive40i takes 5.5 seconds, while the more powerful xDrive50i does the deed in just 4.7 seconds. If even that speed just doesn't do it for you, BMW heavily hinted that an all-new X5 M is on its way and should borrow the 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 from the M5, producing at least 600 hp.

Who Needs A Wrangler?

On the road, the X5 was certainly impressive, but it's off-road where it really shines. To hammer this point home, BMW guided me through the woods, where the X5 tackled sheer vertical declines, streams, and rocky hills with aplomb.

Simply activate the car's off-road mode, and the suspension raises up to allow more ground clearance. The infotainment display switches to show information such as vehicle incline and steering position. Combined with the surround-view camera, I knew exactly where the X5 was pointed and how to avoid any obstacle.

Even the sheer vertical declines were made easy thanks to a hill descent control system, which modulates the brakes to crawl down a hill at a slow speed. I highly doubt any X5 owner will subject their $81,000 vehicle to such tasks, but it is amazing to know it can be accomplished.

Verdict

The 2019 BMW X5 isn't the type of vehicle you typically think of when you picture the BMW brand. It wasn't built with pure driving pleasure in mind, but it does deliver a pleasurable luxury experience that is sure to impress. There are other available SUVs at this price level that offer similar size and features, but the X5 stands out by capturing a bit of the classic BMW magic with its wonderful inline-six and buttery smooth transmission.

I wish BMW had pushed a little more towards the driving pleasure and pulled a little harder away from all of the semi-autonomous features, but the X5 still manages to strike a nice balance of elegance, driving enjoyment, and technology overload. It receives a well-deserved rating of Great Buy.

2019 BMW X4 First Look Review: Your X3 Coupe Has Arrived

The new 2019 BMW X4 is your more exclusive—and pricer—X3 alternative

BMW has finally dropped official details on its second-generation X4, four years after the German automaker showed the world how serious it was about coupe-ifiying its SUV lineup with the first-generation model. Essentially a lengthened, swoopier X3, the 2019 BMW X4—dubbed G02 by BMW engineers and fanboys—uses the same engines and running gear as its slightly smaller sibling. However, the X4 is the definition of a niche player in the American market, having sold no more than 6,500 units annually since its initial debut in 2014.

For comparison, BMW has routinely sold over 30,000 examples of the X3 each year since 2014, hitting a high-water mark of 44,196 sales in 2016. BMW is hoping the X4’s two available engines will power it to more success in the future. Replacing the naturally aspirated inline-6 in base xDrive30i models is the job of a new 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo four-cylinder producing 248 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, with peak torque available between 1,450 and 4,800 rpm. Those numbers make the xDrive30i no slouch, propelling the model to 60 mph in 6 seconds. The uprated M40i hides a more potent 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 beneath its hood with 355 hp and 365 lb-ft of torque on tap.

Those output figures result in a swifter sprint to 60 mph of 4.6 seconds, aided by standard launch control. Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission that can be shifted manually via paddles mounted on the steering wheel, and an all new, rear-biased xDrive all-wheel-drive system. Additionally, the X4’s standard Driver Experience Control allows drivers to select between Sport, Sport+, Comfort, and Eco Pro driving modes. BMW did not provide fuel economy estimates for the new X4, but expect a slight improvement in consumption thanks to improved aerodynamics and further light weighting of its body.

The German automaker has thoroughly reworked the X4’s suspension by reducing unsprung mass to keep its available 19-, 20-, and 21-inch wheels planted. All X4 models are fitted with M Sport-tuned suspension and variable sport steering, which relies on electric power steering to adjust its speed-sensitive Servotronic power assistance system. Further aiding handling are a host of other systems, including automatic differential brake, cornering brake control, start-off assistant, and hill descent control in addition to the typical stability, traction, and anti-lock braking systems expected of any modern vehicle. The M40i is enhanced with larger M Sport brakes, M Suspension with electronically controlled dampers, and a M Sport differential.

The BMW X4 arrives with a new, more aerodynamic body that borrows its face from the new X3, though BMW says the X4 exudes a more athletic persona. Compared to its previous generation, the X4 grows 3 inches in length, 2.1 inches in wheelbase, and its track is widened by 1.4 inches. If you’re curious about the X4’s off-road prowess, you’ve missed the point: BMW has dropped the new model’s ride height by 0.1 inches. As before, the X4’s defining roofline is paired with BMW’s signature Hofmeister kink to produce a more powerful look versus the X3. But that roofline is also responsible for its truncated cargo capacity: 50.5 cubic feet with its 40:20:40-split rear seats folded down, more than 12 cubic feet fewer than the smaller X3.

A driver focused cockpit coddles front occupants in electronically adjustable, heated and ventilated seats that are heavily bolstered for improved lateral support. Rear occupants will also find an additional inch of legroom compared to the last X4. Cabin lighting can be adjusted depending on passenger preferences and a new panoramic moonroof visually opens up the interior for rear occupants. Storage trays, door pockets, and other compartments litter the X4’s interior to safety stow all your possessions. As is typical with BMW, a cornucopia of interior finishes will be offered on the X4. The xDrive30i comes equipped with what BMW calls its xLine interior, featuring Dark Oak Wood trim and pearl-effect chrome accents to brighten up the cabin.

Surfaces are wrapped in Sensatec—BMW’s trade name for its faux-leather vinyl covering—though that can be replaced with Vernasca leather, available in red or black with your choice of blue or red contrast stitching. Leather is standard in M40i models, but can be further enhanced with choices from BMW Individual, such as Merino leather in multiple colors. X4 drivers are greeted by a new, standard 10.25-inch touchscreen with Navigation Professional, real-time traffic, and parking information. It’s supported by a 75-percent larger head-up display, so drivers can more easily stay informed with their eyes front and center.

Those willing to spend more dough can opt for the optional Dynamic Digital Instrument Cluster, a configurable display that replaces traditional analog dials. A new three-zone climate control further increases the level of comfort in the new X4. Still, performance and comfort mean nothing if a vehicle won’t keep you safe in an unfortunate event. Therefore, BMW has added adaptive cruise control, which can be used in stop-and-go traffic, along with blind-spot detection, lane-departure warning, daytime pedestrian protection, front collision warning with city collision mitigation, rear cross traffic alert, and a host of other active safety features to keep you and your passengers from getting in trouble in the first place.

Both X4 models will be available at launch: the X4 xDrive30i starts at $50,450 and the X4 M40i will cost exactly ten grand more at $60,450, plus destination. More detailed pricing will be available closer to launch. BMW will build the all-new 2019 BMW X4 at its U.S. plant in Spartanburg, South Carolina. First examples arrive at U.S. dealers this July.

The Audi Q8 Just Arrived And Already The Q9 Is Planned

Because there are Range Rovers to challenge.

Without question Audi has huge confidence in its ever growing SUV lineup. Earlier this month the Q8 flagship SUV was unveiled, but apparently there’s room for something one number higher. According to Autocar, Audi is intent to launch a Q9 for the specific purpose of taking on the likes of the Range Rover. It will, however, be slotted below the Bentley Bentayga in terms of all-out luxury and price. Think of it like this: the Q8 directly rivals the Range Rover Sport while the Q9 will compete with the Range Rover models.

The Q9’s development will also not impact the upcoming Q8 plug-in hybrid and RS What will the Q9 look like? Obviously it’ll bear a strong resemblance to the Q8, but Audi chief designer Marc Lichte told Autocar he and his team “have so many ideas, so many ideas…” Point being, Audi could use the Q9 to either further its latest design language or use it as the starting point of something new entirely. During our conversations with Lichte he told us about his desire to give individual models their own unique looks instead of the so-called “Russian doll” trend Audi had been doing for years. Audi has yet to officially announce the Q9 project, but that likely won’t happen until after Q8 sales get underway.

There’s also another factor that'll potentially slow down the Q9’s progress: Audi CEO Rupert Stadler is currently sitting in jail for his alleged role in the pre-Dieselgate cover-up. The reveal of the Audi e-tron has also been delayed due to Stadler’s absence. In the meantime, Audi will be paying attention to initial Q8 feedback and apply that and more to the Q9, which could arrive around 2021.

AC Schnitzer BMW M5 Has Officially Arrived

Here are the full details of this 700 hp super sedan.

BMW pulled off something of a miracle with its latest M5. Many thought that the implementation of AWD and the introduction of a conventional automatic transmission would distill the unique character of this uber-sedan, but it has proven to be one of the best in this model’s long history.

Still, there is always room for improvement and AC Schnitzer is a past master at tweaking BMWs to the next level. We have already covered some aspects of the AC Schnitzer M5 but now that it is to be officially revealed at the upcoming Essen Motor Show in Germany, we have the final details of this super sedan.

This package combines a number of elements to enhance the M5’s already impressive performance levels with the exhaust, aerodynamics, suspension and wheels receiving the AC Schnitzer treatment. As revealed before there is now 700 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque on tap, up from the standard 600 hp and 553 lb-ft.

A similar upgrade for the 617 hp Competition pack is currently in development and both power upgrades will come with a parts certificate and AC Schnitzer’s 5-year assembly guarantee. Depending on the target market, the exhaust system is available in both homologated and non-homologated versions.

The 21-inch AC3 lightweight forged Evo wheels have been exclusively developed for the M5 and feature a central locking cover that hides the wheel nuts and adds a sporty look. A range of other AC Schnitzer wheels can also be specified for the M5 in a range of varying colors.

The lowered KW V4 suspension was also developed in conjunction with the KW team and enhances both the driving dynamics as well as cornering capabilities. A range of front and rear spoilers in carbon fiber as well as side skirts and a roof spoiler both enhance the looks and aerodynamic performance. Aluminum pedals, footrest, and dash trim round off the interior of the Schnitzer M5. Official pricing for the package, excluding the cost of the BMW M5 itself, was not announced.