2021 BMW X5 M

MSRP range: $105,100

BMW X5 M 4dr SUV Exterior. Competition Package Shown.

7.9/10 Expert Rating

#5 Midsize performance SUV

+110

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Total MSRP	$107,095
Edmunds suggests you pay	$103,489

What Should I Pay

BMW X5 M for Sale

2021 BMW X5 M Review

byRyan ZumMallen^{Reviews Editor
Ryan ZumMallen has worked in the automotive industry since 2012. He has written thousands of car-related articles and tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career.}

Pros

Massive power from the twin-turbo V8
Impressive handling and braking for such a big vehicle
Includes tech and other features from the standard X5

Cons

Stiff and sometimes unyielding ride
Small mirrors and thick roof pillars create large blind spots
Not a lot of interior storage

What's new

Now available with Android Auto smartphone integration
Minor changes to feature availability and option packages
Part of the fourth X5 generation introduced for 2019

Is it even shocking anymore when an SUV can accelerate to 60 mph in fewer than 4 seconds? Maybe a little. There are only a few SUVs capable of sports car numbers, and the 2021 BMW X5 M happens to be one of them. A high-performance variant of the midsize X5 SUV, the X5 M comes with a 600-horsepower V8 and rips from zero to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds. The X5 M also gets suspension, brake and other drivetrain enhancements over the regular X5 to elevate the driving experience to new heights.

Other mega-performance luxury SUVs include the Jaguar F-Pace SVR, Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S and Porsche Cayenne Turbo. Read our Expert Rating below to get our in-depth analysis of the X5 M's performance, comfort, utility and more.

Edmunds Expert Rating

Our Verdict^{The Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.}

7.9 /10

The X5 M is a fast, capable and well-appointed performance SUV that might be a little too high-strung for its own good. While the firm ride and sharp steering are great on a winding road, those qualities make the X5 M feel rough and heavy when you're driving around town. That said, it's a riot when pushed hard. The interior is handsome and comfortable, with a decent cargo area and a good amount of in-car tech. It's not as smooth or comfortable as the standard X5, so this M model is best suited for those willing to compromise comfort for performance.

Rated for you by America’s best test team.

Performance

8.5/10

How does the X5 M drive? The X5 M is hilariously quick, with a 0-60 mph time of just 3.5 seconds. That's faster than most sports cars we test at Edmunds, much less a 2.5-ton luxury SUV. That's thanks to the M5 sedan's twin-turbo V8. That said, it's not hairy to drive. It settles down in the city or on the highway. Braking performance is similar, with sports car-like numbers in testing and smooth operation around town.

It handles well too, with a mostly stable suspension and decent steering, though some drivers may find both too stiff and heavy. While that weight provides good feedback on the road, it can make parking in tight spaces a bit of a chore. Our biggest complaint is the overabundance of drive modes. There are six settings for the transmission, along with multiple modes for the brakes, engine and suspension. It seems needlessly complicated.

Comfort

7.5/10

How comfortable is the X5 M? The X5 M's front sport seats offer plenty of adjustment. It may take some time to set the driver's seat up just right, but you'll be glad you took the time. The padding is firm and supportive, with good side and thigh bolstering. Unfortunately, the ride quality isn't quite as stellar. The X5 M is a bit too stiff even in its most comfortable setting. It won't break your back, but you'll feel most bumps and road imperfections.

There is also slightly more road noise than we'd prefer from an SUV in this class. On rough pavement, there's a constant drone from the tires. The exhaust note is always present too, though we're not going to complain about a V8's sound in an M-tuned vehicle. On the other hand, the climate control system is quiet and works fairly seamlessly.

Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below

Save as much as $3,606 with Edmunds ^{Click on the model you’re interested in to see what Edmunds suggests you should pay to get a good deal.}

2021 BMW X5 M pricing

in Ashburn, VA

Base

4.4L 8cyl Turbo 8A

$103,489

Build & price

Interior

7.5/10

How’s the interior? The driver-focused interior is typical BMW, with most of the controls within easy reach of the driver. The vast array of buttons and knobs can look overwhelming, but most of it is fairly straightforward, though things such as the trip odometer seem needlessly hidden. A quick look through the owner's manual goes a long way, and BMW's iDrive infotainment system does allow for some customization.

Getting in and out is fairly easy thanks to the wide doors and relatively low ride height. The seats are set somewhat inward and make the step inside larger than you expect. The excellent driving position is upright and comfortable, though large pillars and wide mirrors make it somewhat difficult to see your blind spots. Two adults will fit comfortably across the rear seat, but three will not.

Technology

8.0/10

How’s the tech? BMW's iDrive system is one of the best around. The learning curve might be steep for new users, but it quickly becomes second nature. Many major controls have hard buttons on the center console. You can also use BMW's voice controls to do things such as input navigation or make a call. Syncing a smartphone is easy, and Bluetooth reconnects quickly. The X5 M has wireless Apple CarPlay, which means you can sync up your phone's apps to the infotainment system without having to use a cord. At the time of our testing, the X5 M didn't offer Android Auto integration.

The X5 M does come with an extensive number of driver safety features, from surround-view cameras to adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking. For the most part these systems work well, but the lane-centering system could use some refinement.

Storage

8.0/10

How’s the storage? The BMW X5 M's cargo is pretty big as far as midsize luxury SUVs go. The floor is low and wide and has multiple tie-downs. The power-folding split tailgate helps keep items from rolling out when the hatch is opened too. Interior storage isn't quite as practical, though it is about on par for the class. We like the deep door pockets that have large bottle holders, but we wish there was a bit more storage elsewhere in the center console.

All three second-row seats have car seat anchors, though it's likely too tight to fit three car seats across. Still, we like the flexibility all those anchors offer. The outboard anchors are easily marked and accessible, and the doors open wide enough to make installing a seat relatively easy.

Fuel Economy

6.0/10

How’s the fuel economy? The EPA estimates the X5 M gets 15 mpg combined (13 city/18 highway). That's at the bottom of the class and behind many direct competitors such as the Maserati Levante Trofeo and Porsche Cayenne Turbo. We don't expect these performance SUVs to be thrifty, but be prepared to pay for frequent fill-ups.

Value

7.5/10

Is the X5 M a good value? BMW, like other German automakers, has a well-deserved reputation for build quality. The interior is appointed with high-quality materials, including leather covering the seats, armrest and dashboard. Even the plastics look better than what you'll find on more mainstream vehicles. The fit and finish is equally impressive, with tight panel gaps and no shakes or rattles to speak of.

BMW offers four-year/50,000-mile limited and drivetrain warranties, which are average for the class. You also get three years/36,000 miles of free maintenance, besting all the X5 M's rivals.

Wildcard

8.5/10

While the X5 M can't quite hide its size and weight, it's still got tons of charm, especially if you accept that it's not going to perform as well as an M5 sedan. The 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 makes 617 horsepower in Competition form, helping this bruising SUV scoot with a verve that will put a smile on your face.

Which X5 M does Edmunds recommend?

While it's tempting to jump ahead to the most extreme version, the standard X5 M is frighteningly capable in its own right. Unless you plan to regularly lap your SUV on a racetrack, the difference in performance between it and the BMW X5 M Competition is minimal. Considering adding the Driving Assistance Professional package for its enhanced adaptive cruise control or the Executive package with ventilated and massaging seats if you're feeling fancy.

BMW X5 M models

The BMW X5 M is a high-performance luxury SUV available in two trims: X5 M and X5 M Competition. Both are powered by a turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is standard. Standout features include:

X5 M
Comes well equipped with:

Turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine (600 horsepower, 553 lb-ft of torque)
Adaptive LED headlights
21-inch wheels
Adaptive sport suspension
Panoramic sunroof
Power liftgate
Four-zone automatic climate control
Heated front seats, armrests and steering wheel

Standard tech features include:

Head-up display
Digital instrument display
12.3-inch touchscreen
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone compatibility
16-speaker Harman Kardon sound system
Wireless charging pad
Surround-view camera (gives you a top-down view of the X5 M and its surroundings for tight parking situations)
Automated parking system (steers into a parking spot with little or no driver intervention)

The X5 M also has:

Forward collision mitigation (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios)
Lane departure warning (alerts you if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane)
Blind-spot monitoring (alerts you if a vehicle in the next lane over is in your blind spot)

X5 M Competition
The most raucous version of the X5 M, the BMW X5 M Competition adds the following:

Upgraded turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine (617 hp, 553 lb-ft)
Sport exhaust system
Gloss-black exterior trim enhancements

BMW offers a few options for the X5 M. Highlights include:

Executive package

Upgraded headlights
Soft-close doors (catch as they're being closed and gently pull shut)
Rear window sunshades
Front seats with ventilation and massage

Driving Assistance Professional package

Adaptive cruise control (adjusts speed to maintain a constant distance between the vehicle and the car in front)
Lane keeping system (makes minor steering corrections to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane)

Consumer reviews

There are no consumer reviews for the 2021 BMW X5 M.

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Helpful shopping links

Features & Specs

Trim

Total MSRP: $107,095

MPG & Fuel: 13 City / 18 Hwy / 15 Combined; Fuel Tank Capacity: 21.9 gal. capacity

Seating: 5 seats

Drivetrain: Type: all wheel drive; Transmission: 8-speed shiftable automatic

Engine: V8 cylinder; Horsepower: 600 hp @ 6000 rpm; Torque: 553 lb-ft @ 1800 rpm

Basic Warranty: 4 yr./ 50000 mi.

Dimensions: Length: 195.0 in. / Height: 68.9 in.; Overall Width with Mirrors: 87.3 in.; Overall Width without Mirrors: 79.3 in.; Curb Weight: 5425 lbs.; Cargo Capacity, All Seats In Place: 33.9 cu.ft.

See all features & specs

Safety

Our experts’ favorite X5 M safety features:

Blind-Spot Monitoring: Warns drivers when there are vehicles or objects in their vehicle's blind spots.
Automatic Emergency Braking: Automatically applies the brakes to avoid or lessen an imminent front collision.
Lane Departure Warning: Alerts the driver if the vehicle begins to wander out of its lane.

IIHS Rating

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.

Side Impact Test	Good
Roof Strength Test	Good
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint	Good
IIHS Small Overlap Front Test	Not Tested
Moderate Overlap Front Test	Good

BMW X5 M vs. the competition

2021 BMW X5 M

2021 Jaguar F-Pace

BMW X5 M vs. Jaguar F-Pace

The Jaguar F-Pace is refreshed this year with new exterior and interior styling, plus an updated infotainment system. This bolsters the case for the F-Pace SVR, its most high-performance trim. Though less refined than the X5 M, the F-Pace SVR is a blast to drive and costs about $20,000 less to start.

Compare BMW X5 M & Jaguar F-Pace features

BMW X5 M vs. Porsche Cayenne

The maestro of performance SUVs, the Cayenne is a natural athlete. Its closest competitor to the X5 M in price is the new Cayenne GTS, which includes several sporty upgrades to enhance driving dynamics. There are also Cayenne Turbo models with eye-popping capability, though the cost is likely prohibitive to many — even to shoppers in this economic strata.

Compare BMW X5 M & Porsche Cayenne features

BMW X5 M vs. Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class

On the more modernized end of the sports SUV spectrum, the Mercedes-Benz GLE wows with its stellar tech features and interior appointments. New this year is the Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S, which matches the X5 M in terms of price and power. Still, the BMW is more nimble on curvy roads. The GLE shines if opulence is your main attraction.

Compare BMW X5 M & Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class features

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FAQ

Is the BMW X5 M a good car?

The Edmunds experts tested the 2021 X5 M both on the road and at the track, giving it a 7.9 out of 10. What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the X5 M has 33.9 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a BMW X5 M. Learn more

What's new in the 2021 BMW X5 M?

According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2021 BMW X5 M:

Now available with Android Auto smartphone integration
Minor changes to feature availability and option packages
Part of the fourth X5 generation introduced for 2019

Learn more

Is the BMW X5 M reliable?

To determine whether the BMW X5 M is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the X5 M. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the X5 M's average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more

Is the 2021 BMW X5 M a good car?

There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2021 BMW X5 M is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2021 X5 M and gave it a 7.9 out of 10. Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2021 X5 M is a good car for you. Learn more

How much should I pay for a 2021 BMW X5 M?

The least-expensive 2021 BMW X5 M is the 2021 BMW X5 M 4dr SUV AWD (4.4L 8cyl Turbo 8A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $105,100.

Other versions include:

4dr SUV AWD (4.4L 8cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $105,100

Learn more

What are the different models of BMW X5 M?

If you're interested in the BMW X5 M, the next question is, which X5 M model is right for you? X5 M variants include 4dr SUV AWD (4.4L 8cyl Turbo 8A). For a full list of X5 M models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more

More about the 2021 BMW X5 M

2021 BMW X5 M Overview

The 2021 BMW X5 M is offered in the following submodels: X5 M SUV. Available styles include 4dr SUV AWD (4.4L 8cyl Turbo 8A). The 2021 BMW X5 M comes with all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 8-speed shiftable automatic. The 2021 BMW X5 M comes with a 4 yr./ 50000 mi. basic warranty, a 4 yr./ unlimited mi. roadside warranty, and a 4 yr./ 50000 mi. powertrain warranty.

What do people think of the 2021 BMW X5 M?

Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2021 BMW X5 M and all its trim types. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2021 X5 M.

Pros

Massive power from the twin-turbo V8
Impressive handling and braking for such a big vehicle
Includes tech and other features from the standard X5

Cons

Stiff and sometimes unyielding ride
Small mirrors and thick roof pillars create large blind spots
Not a lot of interior storage

Edmunds Expert Reviews

Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2021 BMW X5 M and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2021 X5 M featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.

Our Review Process

This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.

We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.

What's a good price for a New 2021 BMW X5 M?

2021 BMW X5 M 4dr SUV AWD (4.4L 8cyl Turbo 8A)

The 2021 BMW X5 M 4dr SUV AWD (4.4L 8cyl Turbo 8A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $107,095. The average price paid for a new 2021 BMW X5 M 4dr SUV AWD (4.4L 8cyl Turbo 8A) is trending $3,606 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $3,606 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $103,489.

The average savings for the 2021 BMW X5 M 4dr SUV AWD (4.4L 8cyl Turbo 8A) is 3.4% below the MSRP.

Which 2021 BMW X5 MS are available in my area?

Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2021 BMW X5 M for sale near. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2021 BMW X5 M.

Can't find a new 2021 BMW X5 Ms you want in your area? Consider a broader search.

Find a new BMW for sale.

Why trust Edmunds?

Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including rich, trim-level features and specs information like: MSRP, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, heated seating, cooled seating, cruise control, parking assistance, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats ,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, wheel tire, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, engine torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy (city, highway, combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (length, width, seating capacity, cargo space), car safety, true cost to own. Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, fuel economy, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds rating, and color.

What is the MPG of a 2021 BMW X5 M?

2021 BMW X5 M 4dr SUV AWD (4.4L 8cyl Turbo 8A), 8-speed shiftable automatic, premium unleaded (required)
15 MPG compined MPG,
13 city MPG/18 highway MPG

EPA Est. MPG	15
Transmission	8-speed shiftable automatic
Drive Train	all wheel drive
Displacement	4.4 L
Passenger Volume	N/A

Wheelbase	117.0 in.
Length	195.0 in.
Width	N/A
Height	68.9 in.
Curb Weight	5425 lbs.

Should I lease or buy a 2021 BMW X5 M?

Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.

Check out BMW lease specials

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2021 BMW X5 M

2021 BMW X5 M Review

Performance

Comfort

2021 BMW X5 M pricing

Interior

Technology

Storage

Fuel Economy

Value

Wildcard

Which X5 M does Edmunds recommend?

BMW X5 M models

Features & Specs

Safety

Our experts’ favorite X5 M safety features:

IIHS Rating

BMW X5 M vs. the competition

BMW X5 M vs. Jaguar F-Pace

BMW X5 M vs. Porsche Cayenne

BMW X5 M vs. Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class

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FAQ

Is the BMW X5 M a good car?

What's new in the 2021 BMW X5 M?

Is the BMW X5 M reliable?

Is the 2021 BMW X5 M a good car?

How much should I pay for a 2021 BMW X5 M?

What are the different models of BMW X5 M?

2021 BMW X5 M Overview

What do people think of the 2021 BMW X5 M?

Pros

Cons

Edmunds Expert Reviews

Our Review Process

What's a good price for a New 2021 BMW X5 M?

2021 BMW X5 M 4dr SUV AWD (4.4L 8cyl Turbo 8A)

Which 2021 BMW X5 MS are available in my area?

Can't find a new 2021 BMW X5 Ms you want in your area? Consider a broader search.

Why trust Edmunds?

What is the MPG of a 2021 BMW X5 M?

Should I lease or buy a 2021 BMW X5 M?

Related 2021 BMW X5 M info

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