The 2022 BMW X5 is a versatile player in the mid-size luxury-SUV segment, combining a well-appointed interior and a pleasurable driving experience in one handsome package. Even the entry-level models are richly outfitted with modern technology and convenience features, not to mention a silky-smooth inline-six cylinder engine. Upgrading to the plug-in hybrid model gives the X5 the ability to drive solely on electric power for short trips while the optional twin-turbo V-8 engine delivers seriously punchy acceleration. It might not be as plush inside as the Genesis GV80, nor quite as athletic as the Porsche Cayenne, but when compared to SUVs such as the Audi Q7 and the Mercedes-Benz GLE-class the X5's well-roundedness shines through and for that it wins.
Engine Performance
The 2022 X5 is offered with one of three distinct powertrains, each associated with a different model. X5s wearing the sDrive40i or xDrive40i badge are powered by a 335-hp turbocharged inline-six. The plug-in hybrid xDrive45e comes with a turbocharged inline-six and an electric motor that combine for 389 horsepower. At our test track, that powertrain motivated an X5 to 60 mph in just 4.7 seconds. (We've also tested the 40i it managed a quick 4.8-second run to 60 mph.) Last but not least, the M50i's 523-hp twin-turbo V-8 enables it to rush to 60 mph in less than four seconds.
All three powertrains are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, and none of them will leave drivers wanting for power in virtually any driving situation. The X5's refined ride and stable handling are a big improvement compared with the previous-generation model, as is its steering, which feels more connected and direct but still not exactly what we'd consider sporting. The Q7 still has the X5 beat in this area, but it's a close match. Pitch the X5 into a fast corner, and it holds on reliably and rewards the driver with a predictability that's missing from the GLE-class. And if you need to tow, know that the X5's maximum towing capacity is a stout 7200 pounds no matter which engine it has.
Battery
The xDrive45e model comes standard with a 24.0-kWh battery pack that BMW claims is good enough for up to 30 miles of electric-only driving. The X5 can use the battery to travel up to 84 mph without tapping the gasoline engine. The battery pack can be charged at home on 110-volt or 220-volt outlets or at public charging stations.
Fuel Economy
With the inline-six, the X5 is as fuel-efficient as the four-cylinder-powered version of the GLE-class and a tad more fuel-stingy than the four-cylinder Q7, according to the EPA. With the V-8, its EPA ratings drop dramatically. However, during our real-world highway fuel-economy testing, only the 40i model outperformed its highway rating with a 28 mpg result; the M50i recorded 20 mpg, 2 fewer mpg than expected. The plug-in hybrid 45e delivered 46 MPGe in when running only on battery power and 26 mpg overall.
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