The 2017 BMW X5 remains one of the top picks in the very competitive midsize luxury SUV class. Strong performance, a luxurious cabin and an efficient diesel engine option help distinguish it from its accomplished rivals.
Pros Strong performance from every model Luxurious and comfortable cabin that lives up to its price tag Optional diesel engine is as potent as it is efficient A long list of optional features allows for a wide range of customization.
Cons Less legroom in the second row compared to some of its competitors Optional third-row seats are tight even for children.
The 2017 BMW X5 boasts a solid set of powertrains and features that move the sedan toward the top of any list of luxury SUVs. BMW's charge into every SUV segment hasn't watered down the one that started it all. The 2017 BMW X5 is a benchmark for luxury SUVs and the bar by which many are compared. Its off-road ability is eclipsed only by its on-road manners, and its interior style and comfort make this SUV a must-see for shoppers.
Pros Bright and stunning interior cabin Very advanced safety features available Strong powertrains, top to bottom Comfortable and quick
Cons Exterior is languishing, a bit Very small third row Price can balloon up to six figures (!) now Hybrid isn't very fuel efficient either.
Visually, this hybrid X5 is differentiated only by minor details, such as the door on the front fender that houses the charge port and the model-specific badging inside and out. In this way, this X5 mostly hides the fact that it's electrified; you can even opt for 19- or 20-inch wheels or an M Sport package, further obscuring the fact that it’s designed to save energy, not waste it M-style. One of the hybrid’s disadvantages is its smaller cargo hold, which shrinks significantly in order to make room for the lithium-ion batteries. And in a prototype that we drove last year, the switch between electric and gasoline-fueled travel was discernible, although we expect that issue to be ironed out by the time of launch. Taking into consideration the considerable extra heft and the expected higher cost, drivers of all stripes—eco-minded, performance-minded, and everyone in between—might conclude that they’re better off with a nonhybrid gasoline or diesel X5. But as we know, it’s government regulations that are providing the impetus behind automakers’ rush to plug-ins, not consumer demand—at least not yet.
The 2017 BMW X4 is an alternative approach to tall-riding SUVs, if you can even call it that.The 2017 BMW X4 is a nice thing. Describing it any further requires a little understanding and a break with conventional rules.It's not a coupe, and it's not much of an SUV. It's not a tall wagon, and the X4 certainly isn't much of a sedan. Instead, it doubles down on the recipe that BMW tested with the bigger X6 and takes an existing SUV and tapers its roofline for a more interesting look and less interior space. In this case, the donor is the more upright X3, and the X4 is fashioned to be a direct rival to the Range Rover Evoque, Porsche Macan, and even the Lincoln MKC.
Pros A seductive roofline M40i is a true performance vehicle Sticky handling Base engine is plenty quick
Cons Cargo and rear passenger space is compromised Thick rear haunches Not quite a Macan Turbo competitor
The 2017 BMW X4 ranks 13 out of 14 Luxury Compact SUVs. The 2017 BMW X4's strong engine options and sporty driving dynamics make it a great performer among luxury compact SUVs, but competitors offer more interior and cargo space, as well as higher predicted reliability scores.
Pros Potent engines User-friendly infotainment system Accurate steering
Cons Cramped back seats Class-trailing cargo capacity
You might already know that sitting up high and having a commanding view of the road can be a great thing. So if you're looking for a luxury SUV that gives you that sense of security along with a sleek design and strong performance, the uniquely styled 2016 BMW X4 is an interesting alternative. Mid way through last year the xDrive35i model was replaced by the more performance-oriented M40i model. For all 2017 models, wireless phone charging and a Wi-Fi hotspot are added to the options list, while the upgraded iDrive interface included with navigation has been updated. Finally, the steering wheel included in the optional M Sport package has a new design
Pros Strong performance and good fuel economy from its two available engines High-quality cabin looks and feels expensive Comfortable ride quality despite its sporty nature Responsive handling bettered only by pricier sport-tuned rivals High-performance M40i trim level is a rarity for the segment.
Cons Low rear seat reduces comfort relative to the X3 and most competitors Small cargo area for a vehicle in this class Rearward visibility is compromised by sloping roofline Costs more than a similarly equipped X3 which offers more room inside Some controls can be difficult to learn Adaptive cruise control doesn't perform as well as those of rivals.
