2020 BMW X5

Pros: Ride and handling balance; acceleration; nicely finished cabin

Cons: Fuel thirst of V8 models; complicated infotainment system; pricey options

CG Says: The 2020 BMW X5 adds new models and the base 40i is now available with rear-wheel drive. (Previously all X5s had all-wheel drive.) The new M50i, X5 M, and X5 M Competition are powered by a turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 that develops 523 horsepower in the M50i, 600 hp in X5 M, and 617 hp in X5 M Competition. BMW’s midsize crossover was redesigned for 2019, gaining slightly larger dimensions and new technology features. Seating for five is standard with an optional third row that increases capacity to seven, but the third-row seats are best suited for children (those who want a more spacious third row should look at BMW’s X7). The X5’s base engine is a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six that makes 335 hp. The available turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 puts out 456 hp in the 50i and much more in the previously mentioned performance models. All engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Only the 40i is available with rear-wheel drive. All other models have standard all-wheel drive. Standard safety features include autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot alert, lane-departure warning, and rear cross-traffic alert. An available Driving Assistant Professional package includes lane-keep assist; Active Side-Collision protection; and Extended Traffic Jam Assist that provides partially automated driving support on limited-access highways. Other available features include active rear-wheel steering; air suspension; Automatic Lane Change, which enables the driver to execute a lane change simply by holding the turn-signal stalk in the desired direction; Evasion Aid, an automatic evasive steering assist feature; and Emergency Stop Assistant, which can bring the vehicle to standstill at the edge of the road if the driver suddenly becomes incapacitated. The redesigned X5’s larger dimensions provide better passenger and cargo room than before, and its new convenience and safety features are welcome additions. The cabin exudes understated luxury, and the ride and handling are as polished and athletic as ever. The long list of option packages and features really pumps up the bottom line, but the X5 is still a compelling premium midsize SUV choice.