BMW X5 M

Overview: Is the BMW X5 M a Good Performance SUV?

The BMW X5 M is the high-performance variant of BMW's popular midsize luxury SUV, blending sports car-like performance with practical utility. Debuting for the 2010 model year, the X5 M has evolved through three generations:

• BMW X5 M (E70): 2010-2013 (second-generation X5)
• BMW X5 M (F85): 2015-2018 (third-generation X5)
• BMW X5 M (F95): 2020-Current (fourth-generation X5)

As one of the pioneers in the performance SUV segment, the X5 M competes with vehicles like the Porsche Cayenne Turbo and Mercedes-AMG GLE 63. It offers a compelling mix of luxury, practicality, and blistering performance. The smaller X3 M is another BMW M Series SUV.

Note: Equipment, features, and trims can vary by model year. Always confirm these details when looking for used BMW X5 M cars for sale.

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Related: Here Are The BMW X5 Years To Avoid

Key Features

The BMW X5 M offers:

• Midsize crossover SUV body style
• Twin-turbocharged V8 engine with up to 617 horsepower
• M xDrive all-wheel-drive system
• Adaptive M suspension
• M-specific exterior styling
• Multifunction seats with enhanced lateral support

Trims

The BMW X5 M Series has two main configurations:

• BMW X5 M: Standard high-performance model
• BMW X5 M Competition: Even more powerful variant with additional performance features

The Competition package, introduced with the third generation, became a distinct model in the current generation, offering increased power and exclusive design elements.

Comfort, Technology & Cargo

Inside the X5 M's cabin, the driver and passengers are treated to a blend of luxury and sportiness, especially in the latest generation. The M multifunction seats, upholstered in fine Merino leather, offer exceptional support during spirited driving while maintaining comfort for long journeys. The thick-rimmed M steering wheel features programmable M buttons to access preferred vehicle settings quickly.

At the heart of the cockpit is BMW's latest iDrive system, featuring a large touchscreen (up to 12.3 inches in current models), a digital instrument cluster, and Sirius XM satellite radio. The system offers crisp graphics, responsive controls, and features like gesture control in newer models.

Despite its performance focus, the X5 M doesn't compromise on practicality. With 33.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expandable to 72.3 cubic feet with seats folded, it remains a capable family hauler.

Review: The Best Year For The BMW X5

How It Drives

The BMW X5 M delivers exhilarating performance despite its size and weight. The current generation features a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine (S68 in the latest models), producing 600 horsepower in standard form and 617 horsepower in the Competition variant. This powerplant enables breathtaking acceleration, with a BMW X5 M 0-60 mph time of zero to 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds for the Competition variant, performance once reserved for high-end sports cars.

Power is transmitted to all four wheels through an 8-speed M Steptronic transmission and the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system. This setup provides excellent traction and stability, allowing a rear-wheel-drive bias for a more dynamic driving experience.

The adaptive M suspension, featuring active roll stabilization, keeps the X5 M's substantial mass in check during cornering. While it may not be as nimble as BMW's M sedans, the X5 M offers a level of performance and handling that is unthinkable for an SUV not long ago.

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has not crash-tested the BMW X5 M.

Reviews

Despite three generations of production, the BMW X5 M has no consumer ratings on Kelley Blue Book. This is due to very limited sales of this high-performance SUV.

Learn More: What Does M Mean On A Car? Here’s What To Know

BMW X5 FAQs

Which is faster, the BMW X5 M or the X6 M?

The BMW X5 M and X6 M share the same powertrain and have nearly identical performance figures. Any difference in speed would be negligible and likely due to the X6 M's slightly more aerodynamic shape.

What is the 0-60 time of the X5 M?

A new BMW X5M Competition can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in approximately 3.7 seconds, while the standard X5 M is only slightly behind at 3.8 seconds.

What year did the BMW X5 M come out?

The BMW X5 M first debuted as a 2010 model-year vehicle based on the second-generation X5.

Does the BMW X5 M have a turbo?

Yes, the BMW X5 M features a twin-turbocharged V8 engine. This forced induction setup allows for high power output and improved efficiency compared to naturally aspirated engines of similar size.

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