The BMW X5 M is an amazing mix of very high performance, luxurious accommodation and SUV practicality, but it doesn’t come cheap.
Pros Fabulous engine Superb handling Loads of technology
Cons Ageing looks Expensive to buy and run Not all the safety features are standard
For 2021, BMW gives the X5 M some new standard features and removes several standalone options. Android Auto is now finally offered. It's standard along with a one-year subscription to SiriusXM satellite radio with 360L. The previously optional roof rails and exterior trim in satin aluminum, night vision with pedestrian detection, and the rear-seat entertainment system have been eliminated. BMW also changes the Competition designation from a model to a package.
Pros Jaw-dropping acceleration, shockingly athletic for its size, upscale cabin environment.
Cons Ride will be too stiff for some, cost will be too pricey for most, don't even think of taking it off-road.
2021 Now available with Android Auto smartphone integration.Minor changes to feature availability and option packages.
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
Land Rover has given the Discovery a fairly thorough refresh for 2021 that includes two new turbocharged engines—a 296-hp four-cylinder and a 355-hp six-cylinder—as well as a new Pivi Pro infotainment system with an 11.4-inch display. A new grille, tweaked exterior lighting elements, and new wheel designs give the Disco a visual update, and a new R-Dynamic model—complete with glossy black exterior accents—joins the lineup. Land Rover has improved rear-seat comfort by adding additional padding to the second-row chairs. There's a new 12.3-inch digital gauge display and a full-color head-up display for the driver; a toggle-style gear selector is also new and all Discovery models now come standard with an adjustable air suspension.
PROS Legitimate off-road capability, stylish exterior, modern technology comes standard.
CONS Clumsy handling, cargo space suffers with third row in use, adults won't fit comfortably in the rearmost seats.
“A heroically talented go-anywhere, do-anything family SUV. Just be sure you *need* this much space and ability ”
PROS Unstoppable off-road, superb motorway manners, vast cabin space, improved interior tech
CONS Too damn big for the UK. Perhaps a little over-endowed for most of us. And now the Defender’s here, wouldn’t you sooner have that?
For 2021 Refreshed exterior styling,New infotainment system,New four- and six-cylinder gasoline engines; the diesel is discontinued.
PROS Smooth on-road driving manners Above-average capabilities off-road Luxurious interior with excellent materials Clever features in terms of utility and technology
CONS Infotainment system can be difficult to operate
