The 2017 BMW X5 M returns with an updated iDrive system that includes touchscreen functionality. The Executive option package also now includes a Wi-Fi hot spot and wireless charging for compatible cellphones.
Pros Astounding acceleration Comprehensively equipped Upscale interior with excellent fit and finish.
Cons Touchy gas pedal Ride may be too firm for some tastes No third-row seat offered IDrive still requires too many clicks to accomplish everyday tasks.
Although the 2017 BMW X5 gets called a "sports-activity vehicle" or SAV by its maker, we know a luxury SUV when we see one. Going head to head against the Porsche Cayenne and Mercedes-Benz GLE, the 2017 X5 emphasizes the "sport" part of sport-utility vehicle. The resulting lineup of luxury SUV models includes a hybrid, a diesel, and even a fire-breathing M version, all of which are fun to drive. The X5 is big, but still midsize, so it's easy to manage through traffic and parking lots, while remaining roomy and comfortable at the same time. Note that the "utility" part doesn't extend as far off-road as you can go in a Land Rover or even a Jeep Grand Cherokee.
Pros If you want a luxury-sports sedan, but need the room of an SUV, then the BMW X5 should definitely be on your short list. With its wide range of powertrain options and excellent handling, there's an X5 for just about anyone willing to spend $50,000 or more.
Cons The X5's charms don't come cheap, and if you want a more luxurious ride -- that is, softer -- you might be better suited with a Lexus RX 350, Acura MDX or Audi Q7. If you need more room, check out the larger Mercedes-Benz GL or Infiniti QX80.
The BMW X5 M is now the undisputed king of high-performance SUVs – quicker than similar rivals such as the Porsche Cayenne Turbo, Range Rover Sport SVR and Mercedes GLE63. The X5 M is a combination of sports car performance and luxury SUV practicality and capability. That may sound like a great recipe at first, but it’s never going to drive like a proper sports car. The exterior styling of the X5 M isn’t in any way devastatingly attractive, although its brutal design is a match for its performance. If you absolutely have to have the fastest and most powerful luxury SUV, then the X5 M is a worthy alternative to the pricier Bentley Bentayga.
Pros Fabulous engine Superb handling Tons of technology
Cons Ageing styling Small rear seats Can get pricy with
The 2017 Nissan Armada ranks 6 out of 6 Large SUVs. Nissan reintroduced the Armada for the 2017 model year, and it has a quiet ride, above-average cabin quality, a powerful engine, and spacious second-row seats. However, the front seats are less roomy than in rival SUVs, and the infotainment system feels a step behind many rival systems.
Pros Powerful engine Quiet ride Quality cabin materials Sprawling second-row seats
Cons Antiquated infotainment system Subpar cargo space Disappointing first- and third-row seats
After rotting on the vine for years, the 2017 Nissan Armada's redesign brings it upscale and makes it competitive with its recently updated truck-based full-size SUV rivals. With the 2017 Armada, Nissan has adopted what is basically a U.S. version of the global Nissan Patrol SUV. The new Armada is a soul mate of the Infiniti QX80 once again, with a body-on-frame design and its eight-passenger seating. To distinguish it from the QX80, it gets new styling and new engineering, plus additional safety features.
Pros More modern looks Quiet cabin Ready power Good choice for towing Room for people and their stuff
Cons Thirsty Big and heavy Slow steering Tight third-row seat
The redesigned 2017 Nissan Armada is a substantial improvement over the vehicle it replaces. If you're looking for a big three-row SUV that can tow and venture off the beaten path but also comfortably handle the daily urban grind, the new Armada will be a great choice. After a one-year hiatus, the Nissan Armada is back for 2017. Fully redesigned, it boasts a higher quality interior, a more powerful V8 engine and a new, more chiseled look for its exterior styling.
Pros Higher-quality cabin that betters most competitors Smooth and quiet V8 engine More comfortable and less trucklike to drive than some rival SUVs Plenty of ground clearance for off-road adventures.
Cons Fuel economy is poor, even for this class of vehicle Third-row seat is less spacious and comfortable than those of some SUV and crossover rivals Heavy steering in parking lots.
