2018 BMW X5 Pros vs Cons

BMW's X5 has been a top contender in the crossover SUV segment for quite a while now, and the 2018 BMW X5 is another example of the things that BMW gets right with their vehicles. This year's X5 makes you feel like you are sitting in the lap of luxury with its spacious and well-designed cabin, strong engine options, and a multitude of available safety and technological features.

What's New for 2018?

Since BMW will be rolling out an all-new re-designed X5 in 2019, not much has changed between the outgoing 2017 model and the 2018 BMW X5. Among the few changes made for the 2018 model year is a sport-tuned version of the X5's automatic transmission. Also, the optional packages have been maneuvered around, so they now feel more like actual trim levels.

Ten Reasons You May Like the 2018 BMW X5 – The Pros

1. Multiple Available Engines

While some automakers only include one or two engine options, the 2018 BMW X5 is loaded with different choices. There is a 3.0-L turbo-6, a 3.0-L turbo diesel, a 4.4-L twin-turbo V8, and a plug-in hybrid variant. The V8 is available on the line-topping X5 M trim, which generates a whopping 567 hp. All engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.

2. A Truly Luxurious Feel

The 2018 BMW X5 might look a bit boring on the outside, but on the interior, it is truly luxurious. There is a well-designed three-spoke steering wheel, and you can take your choice of different aluminum and wood paneling trims. The leather and leatherette seats are comfortable and have unique stitching patterns in the front and rear.

3. Plenty of Cabin Space

Overall, there is more than enough cabin space when you don't add the optional third row of seats. Drivers and passengers alike will find that they have plenty of wiggle room with the generous amount of head, shoulder, leg, and hip space they get in the X5.

4. An Efficient Diesel Engine Option

The 2018 BMW X5 comes with a rather fuel-efficient diesel engine option on the xDrive35d. This engine gets 255 hp and 413 lb-ft of torque on its all-wheel drive. This is probably the smartest engine choice in the whole lineup since it provides a nice middle ground between power and fuel economy.

5. The Line-Topping X5 M

Although this line-topping trim is pretty expensive, if you can afford it, it's probably worthwhile. This vehicle is high-powered, has awesome sports seats, and has some of the most mind-blowing handling and steering capabilities you can imagine.

6. Great Ride Quality

The 2018 BMW X5 has an impeccable ride quality that lets you know you are rolling in luxury. The ride feels nice and soft, and the vehicle handles all sorts of bumps and rough road surfaces with ease. Also, if you take this vehicle up to highway speeds, you won't hear much in the way or wind, road, or engine noise.

7. Swift Acceleration

For being such a heavy vehicle, the X5 gets great acceleration. Equipped with the sport-tuned 8-speed automatic transmission, any X5 trim can get from 0 to 60 mph in right around 6 seconds, which is an impressive feat for this segment.

8. A Plug-In Hybrid Variant is Available

Although its electric range is a short 14 miles, there is a plug-in hybrid variant available that is worthy of consideration if you have a short daily commute. The MAX eDrive setting will keep you from using gasoline and seems to work just fine when you're driving on slow-speed urban roads.

9. The Optional Adaptive Suspension

While there are several available suspension options, the adaptive suspension is probably the best one to go with if you don't want to blow your savings on the M trim and M Sport package. The adaptive suspension gives the driver a good feel for the amount of control they have while navigating winding roadways.

10. High Safety Standards

BMW is known for having high safety standards. The 2018 BMW X5 is riddled with safety features, including a 360-degree view camera, adaptive cruise control, and active lane control. You can add BMW's Traffic Jam Assistant and Parking Assistant for extra help getting through some crowded city spaces.

Reasons You May Not Like the 2018 BMW X5 – The Cons

1. Styling Feels Outdated

When you look at the 2018 BMW X5 from the outside, it doesn't look like it is a luxury vehicle. While this will probably change with the 2019 overhaul, it might turn away drivers who want something a bit more sophisticated in external appearance.

2. Optional Third Row Is Cramped

Don't opt for the third-row seats unless it is absolutely necessary. Even children have a hard time getting comfortable in the squashed third row. If you can fit all of your passengers into just two rows of seating, your vehicle will feel spacious enough for everyone.

3. The Cost For Optional Features and Packages

Many packages and additional features are expensive since this is a luxury vehicle. You can easily take this vehicle into the six-figure range by adding on packages and optional features. Play it smart and get only what you view as being essential if you are shopping on a budget.

4. Not Much Feedback From the Suspension On Base Trim

The suspension on the base trim is incredibly soft and feels like you are driving on a clunky old BMW. The too-soft suspension does not give the driver enough feedback to inspire the driver's confidence, especially while trying to navigate turns. You will have to spend more money on an upgraded suspension if you want something with a bit of firmness to it.

How it stacks up to the competition:

2018 BMW X5 vs. 2018 Volvo XC90

The 2018 Volvo XC90 is chic on the inside and outside and has a finely-tuned suspension. Like the X5, many safety features are loaded into the vehicle, but its ride quality falls behind that of the X5.

2018 BMW X5 vs. 2018 Audi Q7

The 2018 Audi Q7 has one of the best ride qualities for the year, making it a top contender against the X5. The Q7 is also quite spacious, although it lacks some of the robust cargo space found in its competitors.

Conclusion

The X5 is a top choice for someone looking to roll out in luxury. While it might be better to wait for the 2019 redesign, the 2018 model has a lot of good things going for it, especially with regard to how many different high-powered engine options are available.