2022 BMW X5 Test Drive Review: Impressive On So Many Levels

When it comes to midsize luxury SUVs, the 2022 BMW X5 is one of the best offerings in the segment. It's been that way across all its generations and is only getting better as more tech gets added to it. It's available with a choice of two 3.0-liter turbocharged engines, one of which is a proper hybrid, along with a detuned version of the 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 found in the X5 M. Output starts at 335 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque for the base model X5 which can be had with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, while the M50i's V8 develops 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid model, meanwhile, offers up to 30 miles of all-electric range. With so many options, the X5 range aims to cater to everyone, from the school-run chauffeur to the performance enthusiast and the environmentally conscious. But with competitors like the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class and Audi Q7 providing stiffer competition than ever before, is the X5 still the king?

BMW loaned us a fully-loaded 2022 X5 xDrive45e for a week-long test and, as expected, we were highly impressed. To be clear, the X5, no matter which trim and engine, is not something we'd want to take on a serious off-roading adventure. The X5 is far better suited for more mild off-roading terrain, daily driving, and very enjoyable road trips. This plug-in hybrid provides double the electric range of its immediate predecessor, a luxurious and extremely comfortable interior, and cool and somewhat understated styling. But as you've probably already guessed, it doesn't exactly come cheap.

2022 X5 Exterior

Dimensions

2022 X5 Performance

Handling and Driving Impressions

The experience of driving a BMW is always about more than just raw power and acceleration - it needs to handle well too. With its lofty ride height and bulky mass, one may be forgiven for thinking that the X5 would be exceptional for all the wrong reasons, but despite its size, it handles brilliantly for an SUV. The steering is direct and sharp and the driving dynamics control system does an excellent job of giving you exactly what you want. It's a BMW after all. In Sport mode, things stiffen up for reduced body roll and lean while Comfort will absorb bumps big and small with ease, ensuring that you arrive at your destination after a long drive feeling relaxed. When you want to slow down, the brakes are more than adequate for the task and slow the large SUV down with ease, while the standard fitment of a launch control system on all models ensures that you can get back up to speed in a flash.

As you'd expect, the M-tuned M50i model is even better to drive thanks to retuned suspension, a throatier exhaust, better brakes, and an M Sport differential. The adaptive M suspension is standard only on the M50i and Black Vermilion trims. However, all models suffer from a slight lack of feel through the steering wheel, although this is not uncommon among modern SUVs. The hybrid exceeded our expectations despite being far from the performance flagship. It's fun to drive and you quickly forget you're driving a hybrid (unless you engage the silent EV mode). The sport car-like turning radius made parking and general maneuvering a breeze. The hybrid's standard adaptive dampers and an adjustable air suspension enable it to be raised or lowered 1.6 inches. There's a lot of potential for performance hybrids, which is exactly what we're expecting from BMW in the next-gen X5 if the BMW XM's powertrain is any indication of the future.

2022 X5 Interior

2022 X5 Trunk and Cargo Space

Warranty

US NHTSA Crash Test Result

Verdict: Is the 2022 BMW X5 A Good SUV?

The BMW X5 has been at the top of its game for a long time now, and now that there's a hybrid model with a usable electric-only range on offer, it looks more attractive than ever before. It caters to everyone, with an impressive base model sending power to the rear wheels while an AWD version of the same vehicle adds stability in slippery situations. It doesn't provide a thrilling overall driving experience but it's far from boring.

The X5 M50i model is also very impressive, offering real driving thrills and a remarkable ability to take corners at speed. The hybrid version isn't too slow off the line either, even with a big battery pack weighing it down.

In addition, every model comes with a stunningly appointed cabin that boasts some of the best in infotainment technology. There are also numerous customization options and additional convenience features that can be added for a true luxury experience. Is it worth a test drive? Absolutely.

2022 BMW X5 Comparisons

2022 BMW X5 vs Audi Q7

The Audi Q7 is arguably in its most handsome suit yet, but if you think those striking looks are directly related to performance, you'll be disappointed. The available turbocharged V6 engine produces 335 hp - matching what you get in the base X5. Unlike the X5, you can't have RWD on any trim. There also isn't a hybrid variant, although you do get a fairly efficient 2.0-liter turbo-four as standard. It's not as frugal as the base X5 despite less power, however, but our real issue lies with the forced-in third row that compromises cargo volume without offering comfortable seating space for adults. Still, the cabin is high-tech and beautifully finished as always, and those looking for a premium SUV without spending quite as much as the X5 asks for may be interested in this alternative.

2022 BMW X5 vs BMW X3

The BMW X3 is the X5's little brother and despite its smaller size is a compelling alternative. That shorter wheelbase and body make the X3 easier to drive enthusiastically. As you'd expect, it's lighter on gas too, but with a cheaper vehicle comes fewer features. Adaptive LED headlights, 16-way front seats with heating, and lane departure warning are all missing from the list of standard equipment, but it's still an impressive little SUV with a power tailgate, tri-zone climate control, and a 12-speaker premium sound system. It also is available as an M40i variant that can do 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds and provides a reasonable 28.7 cubic feet of volume. Overall, the X5 is still the better choice, but if you don't need quite so comprehensive a machine, the X3 is a great choice too.