2022 BMW X5 Expert Review
Reviewed by Kelly Lin
More than 20 years ago, BMW launched the X5, its very first SUV. Now in its fourth generation, the X5 is living up to BMW's ultimate driving machine motto. The midsizeluxurySUV receives minor changes for the 2022 model year.
What's New
- Limited-edition X5 Black Vermilion joins the lineup
- Wireless charging is no longer standard equipment
- Enhanced Bluetooth for 40i and 45e models
- Sparkling Brown Metallic and Dravit Grey Metallic paint colors have been added
- Glass controls added as an individual option
- New Climate Comfort package brings front and rear heated seats, heated armrests and steering wheel, and four-zone climate control
- Convenience package has been removed for 40i models
- Convenience package content has been removed from Premium and Executive packages
- M Sport package on 40i removes two-axle air suspension option, and third row/rear air suspension option
- Front and rear heated seats, two-axle air suspension have been removed as individual options
What We Think
The current-generation X5 is a much better vehicle than the one it replaces. The 2022 X5 benefits from agile handling, and body movements are well controlled despite this SUV's size. BMW's midsize SUV is surprisingly capable off-road, too, when the suspension is raised for more ground clearance. More important, though, is the selection of smooth powertrains. The powerful six-cylinder is a good place to start, and it provides good fuel economy, although the V-8's rocket ship acceleration is plenty tempting.
BMW's conservative design aesthetic is immediately apparent inside the X5. Even with high-quality materials, large screens, and glass controls, the interior doesn't catch your eye in the same way as an Audi Q7 or Mercedes GLE-Class. We're not huge fans of the automaker's iDrive infotainment system, too, as many functions are hidden under layers of menus. While the second row offers plenty of space, the third row isn't as comfortable compared to bigger vehicles like the Audi Q7.
When the X5 faced off against the Genesis GV80 in a comparison test, the BMW took second place as a result of its generic BMW styling and $10,000 price disadvantage compared to the GV80. That said, the X5's fantastic handling, silky inline-six, and exceptional fit and finish mean this is still a great SUV.
If you're looking for strong performance in a spacious SUV, the X5 is a good bet. But this is a competitive segment, so make sure to test drive a few of BMW's many posh rivals before signing on the dotted line.
Performance and Fuel Economy
All versions of the BMW X5 feature an eight-speed automatic transmission. AWD is standard on every X5 except for the base model, the RWD sDrive40i.
The sDrive40i and xDrive40i come equipped with a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine and a 48-volt mild hybrid electrical system. Output comes in at 335 hp and 330 lb-ft of torque. In MotorTrend testing, an X5 xDrive40i hit 60 mph in five seconds flat. Fuel economy tops out at 21/26 mpg city/highway on RWD models, and 21/25 mpg on AWD models.
The M50i packs a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V-8 good for 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy comes in at 16/22 mpg.
Even more potent is the X5 M, whose 4.4-liter twin-turbo V-8 delivers 600 hp, or 617 hp when equipped with the Competition package. Either way, it provides 553 lb-ft of torque, and fuel economy is an unimpressive 13/18 mpg.
Finally, the plug-in hybrid xDrive45e features a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six and electric motor to produce 389 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque. For 2021, these models were rated at 50 mpg-e. Drivers can travel an estimated 31 miles on electricity before the gas engine kicks in.
What Is the 2022 BMW X5 Black Vermilion Edition?
Based off the X5 xDrive40i, this special edition features black and red accents. Red kidney grille bars complement the blacked-out exterior, as do unique 22-inch grey wheels with red brake calipers. Inside, look for special edition badging, black leather seats with red piping, a leather dashboard, carbon fiber trim, and glass controls, among other upgrades. The Black Vermilion edition also includes the M Sport package, adaptive M suspension, Premium package, and Parking Assistance package. Only around 350 copies will be sold in the U.S.
Safety Ratings and Features
The 2022 BMW X5 received an overall four-star safety rating from NHTSA (out of a possible five stars). This score includes four stars in the front crash and rollover tests, and five stars in the side crash test. The IIHS gave the X5 Good scores in all crash categories, but headlights on certain 2021 models were rated Poor.
Standard safety features include automatic high beams, front collision warning, blind-spot detection, and lane departure warning. Adaptive cruise control with lane keep assist is available.
Cargo Space and Interior Room
The two-row BMW X5 offers slightly less legroom and total cargo space than the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class. Two- and three-row versions of the X5 are offered, but if you really need the space of a three-row SUV, consider the X7.
Cargo space (behind first/second rows):
BMW X5: 72.3/33.9 cubic feet
Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class: 74.9/33.3 cubic feet
Legroom (first/second rows):
BMW X5: 39.8/37.4 inches
Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class: 40.3/40.9 inches
Technology
Every BMW X5 is equipped with two 12.3-inch screens, one serving as an instrument cluster and the other as an infotainment system. Drivers can operate the infotainment system via voice control, touchscreen, or a touchpad controller. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a 10-speaker sound system, are also standard. Gesture controls (control simple tasks like increasing volume by motioning your hand in front of a sensor), a head-up display, and upgraded audio are optional.
Prices
Expect to pay a pretty penny for one of these midsize SUVs. The 2022 BMW X5 starts north of $60,000 for the base sDrive40i; the xDrive40i is around $2,300 more expensive. The next priciest model is the plug-in hybrid 45e, costing around $65,000. With all its special content, the Black Vermilion special edition goes for about $83,500. Getting into the sportier models, the X5 M50i is priced around $84,000 while the full-fledged X5 M crests six figures at around $107,000.
