What is it that makes fuel-conscious cars, and especially SUVs, so popular in today’s auto market? Maybe the collective shift of engineers and car users worldwide to an emphasis on environmental and carbon-neutral products? Maybe something else? Whatever it is, the BMW X5 hybrid certainly benefits from the latest rise in the popularity of hybrid models. The BMW X5 hybrid is fast becoming BMW’s staple in the crossover-coupe category. But besides the obvious draw of fuel and eco-consciousness, let us pose the question: is the BMW X5 hybrid worth it?
The plug-in hybrid car is principled on two anchors: luxury and clean energy. This luxury SUV merges spacious, functional aspects with sleek European aerodynamics. This X5 trim level may share the same name as other trims, but a detailed model comparison reveals significant differences. In truth, there aren’t many SUVs like the X5 hybrid being made today. The true worth of the BMW X5 hybrid is particularly evident in the evolution of its features:
Exterior Design and Build
The BMW X5 hybrid’s design showcases thoughtful improvements with each model year. The 2015 X5 hybrid introduced BMW’s iconic kidney grilles, albeit smaller and less integrated, alongside basic adaptive LED headlights. These headlights provided decent visibility but lacked advanced features. By 2019, the grilles grew larger and seamlessly blended into the bodywork, creating a bolder, more modern appearance. The headlights also saw a major upgrade, with laser technology offering vastly superior illumination, particularly at night or in poor weather. The 2024 model refined this further with active air flaps in the grilles for improved aerodynamics and sharper adaptive laser headlights, significantly boosting visibility and efficiency.
The exhausts and air intakes tell a similar story of evolution. In 2015, the X5 hybrid had dual exhausts and modest air intakes, designed more for practicality than flair. By 2019, BMW introduced quad exhausts, giving the SUV a more aggressive stance, while larger air intakes added a sporty edge. In 2024, the design reached peak functionality with adaptive air intakes that dynamically adjust for better cooling and aerodynamics, enhancing both performance and fuel efficiency.
Wheel options and rear lighting also improved significantly. The 2015 model offered 18- to 20-inch wheels and simple LED taillights. By 2019, wheel sizes expanded to 21 inches, and the taillights adopted a sharper, more futuristic look. The 2024 X5 hybrid went further with up to 22-inch wheels for a commanding road presence, while the redesigned taillights added a sleek, 3D effect, combining style with better nighttime visibility.
Interior and Technology
The BMW X5 hybrid has consistently raised the bar for interior luxury in the midsize SUV segment, blending advanced technology with exceptional comfort. While the 2019 overhaul introduced a more modern and ergonomic cabin design, each subsequent model refined this foundation to suit the hybrid’s evolution better.
The xDrive40e (2015) may have debuted BMW’s hybrid technology but lacked many of the luxurious features found in later models. Its cabin was functional yet basic, featuring Sensatec upholstery and an early iteration of BMW’s iDrive system with a smaller display and limited smartphone connectivity. The 2019 xDrive45e marked a major leap forward, offering a brand new 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster paired with a larger 14.9-inch infotainment screen. This upgrade significantly improved visibility and usability, making tech features more accessible. Premium Vernasca leather upholstery and multi-contour heated seats were also introduced, elevating comfort for drivers and passengers alike.
By 2024, the xDrive50e had redefined hybrid interiors with cutting-edge advancements. Its revamped displays integrated seamlessly with BMW’s latest iDrive 8 system, offering intuitive voice controls and faster responses. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto became wireless, reducing cable clutter and enhancing convenience. The ambient lighting system also saw upgrades, providing customizable options that enhance the cabin’s luxurious feel.
Notably, the xDrive50e advanced hybrid integration, creating a balanced blend of performance, sustainability, and luxury that earlier models couldn’t achieve. Each update improved not just aesthetics but usability, with BMW emphasizing connectivity and driver-focused ergonomics. The 2024 BMW xDrive50e represents the pinnacle of this interior evolution. The unit showcases how far hybrids have come in blending high-tech features with clean energy solutions.
Engine and Performance
The BMW X5 hybrid’s engine system is a testament to engineering excellence, blending fuel efficiency with uncompromising performance. The base model’s 25.7-kWh battery pack delivers an EPA-estimated 38-mile electric range and allows all-electric driving at speeds of up to 84 mph. These features make the hybrid as capable on the road as it is efficient.
BMW introduced its first plug-in hybrid SUV, the 2015 X5 xDrive40e, with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and an electric motor producing 308 horsepower. While respectable for its time, the model lacked the engaging handling and acceleration expected of BMWs. This resulted in a less-than-thrilling driving experience. By 2019, the xDrive45e addressed these shortcomings with a more powerful 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine and an improved electric motor, combining for 389 horsepower. This upgrade brought smoother handling, a sportier exhaust note, and a 30-mile electric range, making the hybrid more dynamic and enjoyable to drive.
The 2024 xDrive50e represents a groundbreaking leap. Its 3.0-liter inline-six engine, paired with a more advanced electric motor integrated into the transmission housing, produces a staggering 483 horsepower. This setup allows the hybrid to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.9 seconds, which is on par with performance trims like the X5 M60i. It does this while maintaining a 38-mile electric range. The deeper exhaust note and firmer suspension tuning further enhance the driving experience, giving coupe-SUV enthusiasts the performance and refinement they demand.
Each evolution of the X5 hybrid has ensured that the model not only rivals traditional SUVs in performance but also redefines what a hybrid can achieve. The 2024 xDrive50e stands as a benchmark, offering power, efficiency, and road presence that few competitors can match.
Driving Experience and Handling
The BMW X5 hybrid sets a new benchmark for luxury SUV driving. The model offers a smooth and versatile driving experience tailored to evolving trims. The X5 hybrid delivers a balanced ride across urban streets, highways, and rough terrain. Its adaptive cruise control absorbs road imperfections with ease, while the light steering ensures effortless maneuvering in city traffic.
The xDrive40e’s suspension system has consistently improved over the years. The 2015 model introduced a basic adaptive setup that provided decent comfort but lacked the sophistication of later models. By 2019, the xDrive45e refined the suspension, adding adaptive dampers and a more dynamic handling system. The 2019 model created a smoother ride even on uneven roads. The 2024 xDrive50e further elevated the experience with cutting-edge adaptive air suspension, automatically adjusting to road conditions and delivering superior comfort on snow, gravel, or asphalt.
The driving feel has also evolved significantly. The 2015 xDrive40e paired a turbocharged engine with an electric motor, offering modest power but limited efficiency and range. The 2019 xDrive45e replaced this with a robust 3.0-liter engine and a larger battery, enabling a longer electric-only range of up to 30 miles. In 2024, the xDrive50e perfected the hybrid system, seamlessly integrating a more advanced electric motor and an eight-speed automatic transmission. This combination delivers impressive acceleration, enhanced efficiency, and an extended electric range of 38 miles.
Whether navigating snowy roads or city traffic, the BMW X5 hybrid has continuously evolved to meet the needs of modern drivers. With each model year, BMW has refined its driving dynamics and comfort, making the BMW X5 hybrid worth every penny.
Dimensions
The 2024 BMW X5 hybrid’s dimensions of 194.3 inches in length, 78.9 inches in width, and 69.6 inches in height remain consistent across all trims. The 2015 xDrive40e introduced the first hybrid trim, but its 5,220-pound curb weight affected handling. It offered 103 cubic feet of passenger space and 27 cubic feet of cargo volume, ensuring comfort and usability.
The 2019 xDrive45e improved significantly, enhancing suspension tuning and battery capacity while slightly increasing the curb weight to 5,486 pounds. By 2024, the xDrive50e refined everything further, boosting hybrid efficiency and ensuring seamless acceleration despite a hefty 5,672-pound curb weight.
Fuel Economy
The BMW X5 hybrid stands out for its exceptional fuel efficiency, earning top EPA ratings in BMW’s SUV lineup. It showcases remarkable engineering, combining luxury with eco-conscious design. Rated at 22 mpg city, 23 mpg highway, and 58 MPGe when using its 25.7-kWh battery, the X5 hybrid delivers impressive fuel savings and range.
The 2015 xDrive40e introduced hybrid efficiency but managed only a 14-mile electric range and average fuel economy. By 2019, the xDrive45e enhanced this with a 30-mile electric range and better combined driving efficiency. The 2024/25 xDrive50e now leads the pack, offering superior hybrid fuel economy and further extending its electric range, cementing its status as a benchmark in the luxury hybrid SUV market.
BMW X5 Hybrid Shortcomings
Yes, every car model has its significant drawbacks. Many SUVs also suffer many other shortcomings than others. BMW can proudly claim that the hybrid X5 is not one of such SUVs. While it may have its detractors, these shortcomings do not take away from the overall masterpiece of a fuel-conscious SUV this is. However, no appraisal is complete without mentioning relevant deficiencies.
One weakness of the X5 is its air suspension system, particularly on older 2015 and 2019 models equipped with this feature. While it delivers exceptional ride comfort and adaptive handling, the system has occasionally faltered in extreme weather conditions, especially in colder climates. Owners have noted issues such as delayed height adjustments or error messages related to the suspension.
Also, the infotainment system in older models like 2015, while advanced for their time, shows its age in certain aspects. BMW’s ancient iDrive interface in certain models of this trim is functional but can feel unintuitive for first-time users. Owners report requiring a steep learning curve to master its features like gesture control. Additionally, the absence of Android Auto integration leaves gaps in connectivity, especially for buyers expecting seamless smartphone compatibility.
We therefore contend that the 2024-25 BMW X5 hybrid models offer the best worth for most buyers. They deliver high-concept modern design, impressive performance, and ultra-advanced tech features without the high price of similar luxury hybrid competitors. Their favorable pricing is also discussed below.
Pricing
The newer 2024-25 BMW X5 hybrid models begin at $72,500, offering exceptional value in the luxury hybrid SUV price range. Its appeal lies in its impressive performance and its advanced technology, such as the iDrive 8.5 infotainment system and adaptive LED headlight. However, buyers can opt for upgrades, such as the Executive Package, which adds a panoramic Sky Lounge LED roof and glass controls for an additional $4,000.
The 2015 xDrive40e is now priced between $23,684 and $45,809, an affordable entry point but one that reflects its outdated capabilities. The 2019 xDrive45e, on the other hand, costs between $65,000 and $87,105, offering a balanced mix of performance, efficiency, and luxury.
In the used market, these latest 24/25 hybrid X5s are also quickly becoming a sought-after option for buyers looking for a balance of luxury and efficiency at a reduced price. Early models retain value well, but depreciation on luxury hybrids means savvy shoppers may find deals under $65,000.
So, is the BMW X5 Hybrid worth it?
Yes, the BMW X5 hybrid is all too worth it. You’d be hard-pressed to find any equivalent fuel-conscious model among the major SUV providers that can still deliver dominant road performance while keeping the environment in mind. Many competing brands, such as Mercedes, Porsche, Lexus, and the like, have tried to replicate the somewhat magic formula of blending fuel-efficient hybrid mode with style, luxury, and performance. As stated above, these competing equivalent models pale in comparison to the BMW X5 hybrid.
It is also difficult to find this quality fuel-conscious SUV at such a considerable price in the hybrid plug-in market. Models like the Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, and Porsche Cayenne promise better fuel efficiency but only do so at exorbitant prices. This is not to say that the X5 hybrid comes cheap, as there are certainly cheaper fuel-conscious models in the market. However, none of those models can boast the X5’s craft, make, and performance as a green vehicle.
