2016 BMW X5 Pros vs Cons
In terms of overall build quality and performance, the 2016 BMW X5 is a few notches above the average SUV. Because of the base model’s long list of standard features, a lot of buyers won’t feel the need to move up to a higher trim level. Nifty safety features such as the top-down camera make the new X5 a secure family vehicle.
What’s new for 2016?
The new BMW X5 is essentially a carryover from last year. No significant changes have been made for the 2016 model year.
Under the hood of the base 35i model sits a turbocharged six-cylinder engine. The muscular engine churns out 300 horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque. Whether the driver is taking a road trip or cruising around town, they will appreciate the SUV’s strong performance. An eight-speed automatic gearbox comes standard.
2) Very Powerful & Efficient Diesel Engine
For the drivers who are seeking the best possible fuel efficiency, the turbocharged diesel engine is their best option. The diesel version returns an impressive 24 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. Fortunately, the diesel engine’s impressive fuel economy doesn’t take away from the SUV’s performance.
3) Shockingly Quick V-8 Model
From a performance standpoint, the V8-powered X5 is the fastest trim in the lineup. Its boosted V-8 engine pumps out a thrilling 445 horsepower and 480 pound-feet of torque. When tested at the track, the high-powered SUV recorded a 0-60 time of 4.9 seconds.
4) M Suspension
In the eyes of some automotive journalists, the 2016 BMW X5 is the best-handling SUV in its price range. While even the base model handles exceptionally well, buyers can also opt for an adaptive M suspension. The M suspension enables the X5 to deliver an even sportier performance on the road. Luckily, the ride quality remains very comfortable.
5) Beautiful Styling
The 2016 BMW X5 is definitely a sporty-looking SUV. BMW’s signature grille and round headlights help the SUV to stand apart from its rivals. Meanwhile, the X5’s wide stance and muscular body lines make it look quite aggressive. Featuring an exclusive set of 20-inch wheels, the M Sport package gives the X5 an enhanced level of flair.
6) Loaded With Extravagant Features
Most people will be very satisfied with the amount of standard equipment. When traveling at nighttime, the adaptive xenon headlights will be especially useful on rural roadways. Equipped with a 10.2-inch display, the iDrive infotainment system is among the best units on the market. Some of the other goodies consist of a panoramic sunroof, a nine-speaker audio system, a power lift-gate, and parking sensors.
7) Self-Drying Brakes
Wet weather can definitely impact a vehicle’s braking performance. To ensure that the 2016 BMW X5 delivers the optimum stopping power, it has been equipped with a self-drying brake system. If the driver is traveling in the rain or snow, the system will automatically detect any excess moisture on the brake rotors.
8) Ability to Tow
The 2016 BMW X5 is a good choice for the families who need a multi-purpose vehicle. When fitted with the proper gear, the SUV can tow up to 6,000 pounds. From fishing boats to campers, the X5 can be used to haul a variety of different things. This means that drivers can avoid the extra expense of a pickup truck.
9) Luxurious Interior
Featuring three rows of seats, the new X5 has one of the best-rated interiors in the class. The cabin’s outstanding craftsmanship gives it a very luxurious character. BMW fans will love the X5’s classic gauge cluster. The standard SensaTec upholstery is durable and easy to wipe clean. Top-of-the-line components such as the Harman Kardon surround-sound audio system will tempt a lot of buyers.
10) Advanced Safety Technologies
The SUV comes standard with auto-dimming mirrors and a BMW Assist emergency communications system. However, buyers can also opt for several advanced safety technologies. A heads-up display eliminates the need to look down at the speedometer. Some of the other driving aids include a blind-spot monitor, pedestrian detection, and a forward collision warning system.
Prices start at around $57,700 for the 2016 BMW X5. However, the top-of-the-line versions can exceed $70,000. By comparison, the Ford Explorer has a starting price of around $31,000.
2) Expensive to Maintain
The new X5 is more expensive to maintain than most American-made SUVs. This could be a concern for the drivers who want to avoid spending any extra money.
3) Tight Third-Row Seat
Most adults will find the third-row seat to be quite cramped. It is more suitable for small children.
How it stacks up to the competition:
Some of the X5’s main competition includes the Volvo XC90, the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class, and the Acura MDX. In regards to handling, the new BMW X5 is hard to beat. Although the new Volvo XC90 has been receiving a lot of accolades, the X5’s interior is still a tad bit more luxurious. In comparison to the Acura MDX, the X5 delivers a more engaging driving experience.
Conclusion:
The BMW X5’s high-quality cabin and fun driving dynamics will appeal to a lot of drivers. Although the European SUV has an expensive price tag, it will reward buyers with a great deal of luxury. When equipped with the sporty M suspension, the X5 becomes an even more exciting performer on the open road.
What’s new for 2016?
The new BMW X5 is essentially a carryover from last year. No significant changes have been made for the 2016 model year.
Ten Reasons You May Like the 2016 BMW X5 – The Pros
1) Strong Base EngineUnder the hood of the base 35i model sits a turbocharged six-cylinder engine. The muscular engine churns out 300 horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque. Whether the driver is taking a road trip or cruising around town, they will appreciate the SUV’s strong performance. An eight-speed automatic gearbox comes standard.
2) Very Powerful & Efficient Diesel Engine
For the drivers who are seeking the best possible fuel efficiency, the turbocharged diesel engine is their best option. The diesel version returns an impressive 24 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. Fortunately, the diesel engine’s impressive fuel economy doesn’t take away from the SUV’s performance.
3) Shockingly Quick V-8 Model
From a performance standpoint, the V8-powered X5 is the fastest trim in the lineup. Its boosted V-8 engine pumps out a thrilling 445 horsepower and 480 pound-feet of torque. When tested at the track, the high-powered SUV recorded a 0-60 time of 4.9 seconds.
4) M Suspension
In the eyes of some automotive journalists, the 2016 BMW X5 is the best-handling SUV in its price range. While even the base model handles exceptionally well, buyers can also opt for an adaptive M suspension. The M suspension enables the X5 to deliver an even sportier performance on the road. Luckily, the ride quality remains very comfortable.
5) Beautiful Styling
The 2016 BMW X5 is definitely a sporty-looking SUV. BMW’s signature grille and round headlights help the SUV to stand apart from its rivals. Meanwhile, the X5’s wide stance and muscular body lines make it look quite aggressive. Featuring an exclusive set of 20-inch wheels, the M Sport package gives the X5 an enhanced level of flair.
6) Loaded With Extravagant Features
Most people will be very satisfied with the amount of standard equipment. When traveling at nighttime, the adaptive xenon headlights will be especially useful on rural roadways. Equipped with a 10.2-inch display, the iDrive infotainment system is among the best units on the market. Some of the other goodies consist of a panoramic sunroof, a nine-speaker audio system, a power lift-gate, and parking sensors.
7) Self-Drying Brakes
Wet weather can definitely impact a vehicle’s braking performance. To ensure that the 2016 BMW X5 delivers the optimum stopping power, it has been equipped with a self-drying brake system. If the driver is traveling in the rain or snow, the system will automatically detect any excess moisture on the brake rotors.
8) Ability to Tow
The 2016 BMW X5 is a good choice for the families who need a multi-purpose vehicle. When fitted with the proper gear, the SUV can tow up to 6,000 pounds. From fishing boats to campers, the X5 can be used to haul a variety of different things. This means that drivers can avoid the extra expense of a pickup truck.
9) Luxurious Interior
Featuring three rows of seats, the new X5 has one of the best-rated interiors in the class. The cabin’s outstanding craftsmanship gives it a very luxurious character. BMW fans will love the X5’s classic gauge cluster. The standard SensaTec upholstery is durable and easy to wipe clean. Top-of-the-line components such as the Harman Kardon surround-sound audio system will tempt a lot of buyers.
10) Advanced Safety Technologies
The SUV comes standard with auto-dimming mirrors and a BMW Assist emergency communications system. However, buyers can also opt for several advanced safety technologies. A heads-up display eliminates the need to look down at the speedometer. Some of the other driving aids include a blind-spot monitor, pedestrian detection, and a forward collision warning system.
Reasons You May Not Like the 2016 BMW X5 – The Cons
1) Costly AutomobilePrices start at around $57,700 for the 2016 BMW X5. However, the top-of-the-line versions can exceed $70,000. By comparison, the Ford Explorer has a starting price of around $31,000.
2) Expensive to Maintain
The new X5 is more expensive to maintain than most American-made SUVs. This could be a concern for the drivers who want to avoid spending any extra money.
3) Tight Third-Row Seat
Most adults will find the third-row seat to be quite cramped. It is more suitable for small children.
How it stacks up to the competition:
Some of the X5’s main competition includes the Volvo XC90, the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class, and the Acura MDX. In regards to handling, the new BMW X5 is hard to beat. Although the new Volvo XC90 has been receiving a lot of accolades, the X5’s interior is still a tad bit more luxurious. In comparison to the Acura MDX, the X5 delivers a more engaging driving experience.
Conclusion:
The BMW X5’s high-quality cabin and fun driving dynamics will appeal to a lot of drivers. Although the European SUV has an expensive price tag, it will reward buyers with a great deal of luxury. When equipped with the sporty M suspension, the X5 becomes an even more exciting performer on the open road.
2016 BMW Buying Guides:
