2018 BMW X5
What’s new
- M Sport package now includes Premium package features
- Part of the third X5 generation introduced for 2014
Pros
- Strong performance from every model
- Luxurious and comfortable cabin that lives up to its price tag
Cons
- Optional third-row seating is very tight
- Less legroom for second-row occupants
2018 BMW X5 pricing
in Ashburn, VAWhich X5 does Edmunds recommend?
Edmunds' Expert Review
Overall rating
4.5 / 5The 2018 BMW X5 serves as a benchmark for the modern luxury performance crossover SUV. It impressively combines the attributes you normally associate with a BMW sedan and then adds true utility. A wide range of engine choices and trim packages ensures buyers can find the right configuration for their needs.
The X5 engine options include a turbocharged six-cylinder (300 horsepower, 300 pound-feet of torque), a diesel six-cylinder (255 hp, 413 lb-ft), a powerful V8 (445 hp, 480 lb-ft) and a plug-in hybrid (308 hp, 332 lb-ft). No matter what's under the hood, the X5 simultaneously provides a comfortable ride and sporty handling, and the X5's all-wheel-drive system provides extra traction in wet weather or the occasional trip off pavement.
There are a few downsides to the X5, with the main one being interior space. It's just not as roomy as some rival crossovers with third-row seats. Some of those rivals have fresher and newer designs, too. But overall we think the X5 is a solid pick if you want a luxury vehicle that offers a great combination of performance and utility.
Notably, we picked the 2018 BMW X5 as one of Edmunds' Best Midsize SUVs and picked the 2018 BMW X5 xDrive40e as one of Edmunds' Best Luxury Hybrid SUVs for this year.
Trim levels & features
The 2018 BMW X5 is a midsize luxury SUV that is available in 35i, 35d, 40e and 50i trim levels. All have all-wheel drive (xDrive) except for the 35i, which comes standard with rear-wheel drive (sDrive). A high-performance X5 M variant is reviewed separately. There is seating for five passengers, and an optional third-row seat increases capacity to seven.
Standard features for the 35i and 35d models include 19-inch wheels, adaptive xenon headlights, LED foglights, power-folding and heated mirrors, auto-dimming mirrors, automatic wipers, a panoramic sunroof, roof rails, a power liftgate, and front and rear parking sensors.
On the inside, you get dual-zone automatic climate control, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, premium vinyl upholstery, power-adjustable and heated front seats, driver-seat memory functions, 40/20/40-split folding rear seats, BMW Assist emergency communications, a 10.2-inch central display screen, BMW's iDrive infotainment interface, a navigation system, voice controls and a nine-speaker sound system.
The 40e plug-in hybrid includes all of the above, along with adjustable suspension dampers and rear air suspension (optional on all other X5s), along with hybrid-specific instrumentation and additional iDrive menu items.
The X5 50i includes all of the features found in the 35i along with keyless ignition and entry, leather upholstery, upgraded front seats, four-zone climate control and 16-speaker Harman Kardon surround-sound audio system.
Options include the Luxury, xLine and M Sport equipment lines that have different wheel designs (up to 20 inches), color schemes, and trim and upholstery types. The M Sport also includes sport front seats and shift paddles for the transmission.
Other bundled options include the Premium package for all but the 50i (keyless ignition and entry, four-zone climate control and satellite radio) and the Luxury Seating package (multicontour front seats with ventilation).
The Driver Assistance package adds a variety of driver safety aids, and you can get even more with the Driver Assistance Plus package. The Dynamic Handling package for xDrive models adds adaptive dampers, a rear air suspension and a body-roll mitigation feature for improved road holding. The Lighting package bundles upgraded adaptive LED headlights and automatic high-beam headlight control.
Other options for the BMW X5 include Apple CarPlay, a 16-speaker Bang & Olufsen surround-sound audio system, upgraded or extended leather upholstery, upgraded interior trim and manual sunshades for the rear windows. All X5s except the hybrid can be equipped with second-row comfort seats (with fore/aft and recline adjustment) and a third-row seat (includes the rear air suspension). You can also order a rear-seat entertainment system and a night-vision camera system.
Trim tested
Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions that are fundamentally similar. The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the 2014 BMW X5 (turbo 3.0L inline-6 | 8-speed automatic | AWD).
NOTE: Since this test was conducted, the current X5 has received minor revisions, including changes to the infotainment unit and a shuffling of options and trims structure. Our findings remain broadly applicable to this year's X5.
Driving
5Acceleration
5Braking
4.5Steering
4Handling
4.5Drivability
5Comfort
4.5Seat comfort
5Ride comfort
4.5Noise & vibration
3Climate control
Interior
4Ease of use
5Getting in/getting out
2Driving position
Roominess
4.5Visibility
4Quality
5Utility
3.5Technology
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2018 BMW X5.
Most helpful consumer reviews
Features & Specs
Safety
Our experts’ favorite X5 safety features:
- Active Blind-Spot Detection
- Warns drivers when there are vehicles or objects in the vehicle's blind spots.
- Active Driving Assistant
- Helps drivers avoid calamity by combining front collision mitigation, pedestrian detection and lane departure warning.
- Rear Axle Air Suspension
- Keeps the car level when heavily loaded, ensuring consistent high-speed handling and braking performance.
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BMW X5 vs. the competition
2018 BMW X5
2018 Audi Q7
BMW X5 vs. Audi Q7
With a lower starting price, a slightly longer wheelbase and a standard third-row seat, the Audi Q7 is a great alternative to the X5. The Q7 is a high-tech family hauler that offers nearly every creature comfort and advanced safety feature you can ask for in a modern car. On the other hand, the X5 has a diverse powertrain lineup — ranging from a plug-in hybrid to a brawny V8 — and a breadth of customization that the Q7 can't quite match.
BMW X5 vs. Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class
Although it only seats five, the Mercedes-Benz GLE midsize SUV is a direct competitor to the BMW X5. This latest generation has been on sale for quite a while (the pre-face-lift version, called the M-Class, debuted in 2011), but it still impresses with its top-notch cabin materials and lengthy list of standard features. As with the X5, the GLE's wide range of engine options will satisfy most needs, whether you want a fuel-efficient plug-in hybrid or desire tire-melting pandemonium from a 577-horsepower twin-turbo V8.
BMW X5 vs. BMW X3
The BMW X3 is a step down from the X5 in terms of size, but its cabin is still plenty roomy and its engines are still surprisingly potent. Although it's totally redesigned for 2018, the X3 doesn't look much different from its predecessor. A lightly restyled exterior, a more spacious interior, revised powertrains and wireless Apple CarPlay capability round out the significant changes this year. Though it's considerably less expensive than its larger sibling, BMW's famously lengthy options list will have you nudging up the X5's starting price in no time.
2018 BMW X5 for Sale
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See your car's valueThe 2018 BMW X5 is mildly updated from the third generation of the Bavarian automaker's midsize luxury SUV, which was introduced for the 2014 model year. The X5's styling, although not revolutionary, retains the quintessential BMW look that appeals to so many fans of the marque. It still offers an attractive mix of performance, utility, on-road manners and light off-road capability that in many ways sets the standard for its class.
Shoppers in the market for a luxury crossover should be pleased with the X5's range of standard equipment, which includes upscale touches such as a power tailgate, comfortable interior, and a host of technology and advanced safety equipment. Less pleasing for some buyers might be the somewhat cramped optional third-row seat. It's fine for kids, but adults will definitely find legroom at a premium. Also note that the additional seat eliminates the reclining feature of the second row.
A 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine provides standard power for the X5, producing 300 horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque. It comes linked to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Other available powerplants include a 4.4-liter turbocharged V8 that puts out 445 hp, a six-cylinder diesel and a plug-in hybrid. All X5s except the rear-wheel-drive, entry-level 35i come standard with all-wheel drive.
Handling continues to be a strong suit for BMW's midsize SUV. Some drivers may find the ride a bit on the stiff side, but most will appreciate the cornering ability and taut steering feel provided by the sport-oriented suspension. The handling prowess, coupled with the standard turbo-boosted engine, which provides more than adequate power, gives the X5 a level of performance that rivals that of pretty much any other SUV in its market segment.
In addition to choosing from the entry-level 35i, the diesel-powered 35d, the V8-engined 50i and the plug-in hybrid variant, buyers will find a huge selection of options and equipment packages to help customize their X5 with extra luxury, performance, comfort and convenience.
Whatever your preferences, let Edmunds help you select just the right 2018 BMW X5 to meet your needs.
2018 BMW X5 Overview
The 2018 BMW X5 is offered in the following submodels: , , . Available styles include xDrive35i 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A), sDrive35i 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A), xDrive40e iPerformance 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 8A), xDrive35d 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbodiesel 8A), and xDrive50i 4dr SUV AWD (4.4L 8cyl Turbo 8A).
What do people think of the 2018 BMW X5?
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2018 BMW X5 and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2018 X5 3.5 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. 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 2018 X5.
Edmunds Expert Reviews
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2018 BMW X5 and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2018 X5 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.
Edmunds Scorecard
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 2018 BMW X5?
2018 BMW X5 xDrive50i 4dr SUV AWD (4.4L 8cyl Turbo 8A)
The 2018 BMW X5 xDrive50i 4dr SUV AWD (4.4L 8cyl Turbo 8A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $105,960. The average price paid for a new 2018 BMW X5 xDrive50i 4dr SUV AWD (4.4L 8cyl Turbo 8A) is trending $9,925 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $9,925 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$96,036.
The average savings for the 2018 BMW X5 xDrive50i 4dr SUV AWD (4.4L 8cyl Turbo 8A) is9.4% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 11 2018 BMW X5 xDrive50i 4dr SUV AWD (4.4L 8cyl Turbo 8A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.
2018 BMW X5 xDrive35d 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbodiesel 8A)
The 2018 BMW X5 xDrive35d 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbodiesel 8A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $61,995. The average price paid for a new 2018 BMW X5 xDrive35d 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbodiesel 8A) is trending $9,263 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $9,263 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$52,732.
The average savings for the 2018 BMW X5 xDrive35d 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbodiesel 8A) is14.9% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 11 2018 BMW X5 xDrive35d 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbodiesel 8A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.
2018 BMW X5 xDrive35i 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
The 2018 BMW X5 xDrive35i 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $60,495. The average price paid for a new 2018 BMW X5 xDrive35i 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A) is trending $11,317 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $11,317 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$49,178.
The average savings for the 2018 BMW X5 xDrive35i 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A) is18.7% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 101 2018 BMW X5 xDrive35i 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.
2018 BMW X5 xDrive40e iPerformance 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 8A)
The 2018 BMW X5 xDrive40e iPerformance 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 8A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $64,745. The average price paid for a new 2018 BMW X5 xDrive40e iPerformance 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 8A) is trending $11,889 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $11,889 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$52,856.
The average savings for the 2018 BMW X5 xDrive40e iPerformance 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 8A) is18.4% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 9 2018 BMW X5 xDrive40e iPerformance 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 8A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.
Which 2018 BMW X5s 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) 2018 BMW X5 for sale near. There are currently 208 new 2018 X5s listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $59,835 and mileage as low as 0 miles. 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 Carfax and Autocheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2018 BMW X5. Then select Edmunds special offers, perks, deals, and incentives to contact the dealer of your choice and save up to $19,690 on a used or CPO 2018 X5 available from a dealership near you.
Can't find a new 2018 BMW X5s you want in your area? Consider a broader search.
Find a new BMW X5 for sale - 1 great deals out of 6 listings starting at $10,284.
Find a new BMW for sale - 11 great deals out of 12 listings starting at $12,505.
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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.
Should I lease or buy a 2018 BMW X5?
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
Check out BMW X5 lease specials