2023 BMW X5 M
Overview
The X5 M is an ultra-high-performance SUV that uses the same twin-turbo V-8 as BMW’s most powerful sedan, the M5. The X5 comes standard with 600 horsepower but adding the optional Competition package unlocks an additional 17 ponies and other racy hardware such as an M Sport exhaust and sport seats. The X5 M tips the scales at 5489 pounds, but thanks in part to a balanced 50/50 weight distribution, it exhibits impressively controllable behavior around even the most challenging road courses. Off the track, the X5 M uses its SUV scale as an advantage to comfortably seat up to five. Lavish standard equipment includes an Alcantara headliner, a 16-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, and a massive 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and infotainment touch screen.
What’s New for 2023?
BMW makes no significant changes to the X5 M for 2023.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
If you’re shopping the X5 M, you might as well spend the extra shekels for the performance-enhancing Competition package. In addition to extra horsepower, it comes standard with a more boisterous exhaust system, an exclusive Track mode, and larger-diameter rear wheels and tires. It also brings even nicer leather upholstery and adds padding on the sides of the center console to prevent bruising your knee during hard cornering.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
A monster hides underneath the hood of every X5 M. The 4.4-liter V-8 lurking there has two turbochargers force-feeding it air so it can generate 600 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque. The Competition package adds another 17 ponies. Every X5 M utilizes an eight-speed automatic transmission and a variable all-wheel-drive system. The latter allows the driver to choose between maximum traction at all four wheels or added agility in the rear-biased Track mode. A set of 21-inch wheels and adaptive dampers are standard equipment. However, those who want a staggered set of rollers with 22-inchers out back have that option too. (The bigger rear wheels are included with the Competition package.) Our drive of a Competition-equipped model impressed with sports-car-like grip in the corners and eye-watering acceleration.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
It takes lots of fuel to make the kind of horsepower produced by the X5 M, and it shows in the EPA fuel-economy ratings. The X5 M delivers an estimated 13 mpg in the city and 18 mpg on the highway. We have yet to evaluate its real-world highway mpg on our 75-mph fuel-economy route, which is part of our extensive testing regimen. For more information about the X5 M’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The interior of the X5 M is exquisitely appointed and outfitted with myriad desirable features. A 12.3-inch fully digital gauge cluster rests behind its leather-wrapped steering wheel that also hosts a pair of paddle shifters and red M drive-mode buttons. Ambient interior lighting, a large head-up display, a heated steering wheel and front armrests, and racy materials are all standard. Those who desire fancier leather upholstery, massaging front seats with heated and cooled cushions, heated rear seats, and more can add them for extra coin. There’s no shortage of passenger space in the front and rear seats, and its cargo area is big enough to hold 11 carry-on suitcases behind the back row.
The Car and Driver Difference
Infotainment and Connectivity
Every X5 M has a loaded infotainment system and countless connectivity features. The company’s iDrive software is displayed via a 12.3-inch touchscreen that can also be controlled by hand gestures, voice commands, and a rotary controller on the center console. While Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Harman/Kardon audio system are standard, a Bowers & Wilkins sound system is a standalone option.
How to Buy and Maintain a Car
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Along with standard driver-assistance technology, such as forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking, the X5 M offers more optional assists. For more information about the BMW’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:
Standard blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert Standard lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist Available adaptive cruise control
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
BMW provides a competitive warranty that aligns with the limited and powertrain coverages offered by rivals such as Audi and Mercedes-Benz. While its complimentary scheduled maintenance isn’t as great as Jaguar’s, it’s better than every other competitor.
Limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles Powertrain warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles Complimentary maintenance is covered for three years or 36,000 miles
Specifications
Specifications
2020 BMW X5 M
VEHICLE TYPE
front-engine, all-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door wagon
BASE PRICE
X5 M, $106,095; X5 M Competition, $115,095
ENGINE TYPE
twin-turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 32-valve V-8, aluminum block and heads, direct fuel injection
Displacement
268 in3, 4395 cm3
Power
600 or 617 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque
553 lb-ft @ 1800 rpm
TRANSMISSION
8-speed automatic
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 117.0 in
Length: 195.0 in
Width: 79.3 in
Height: 68.9 in
Passenger volume: 106 ft3
Cargo volume: 34 ft3
Curb weight (C/D est): 5450 lb
PERFORMANCE (C/D EST)
60 mph: 3.6–3.7 sec
100 mph: 9.0–9.1 sec
¼-mile: 12.0–12.1 sec
Top speed: 155–177 mph
EPA FUEL ECONOMY
Combined/city/highway: 15/13/18 mpg
More Features and Specs
