2021 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 2021 BMW X5 gains a new plug-in-hybrid xDrive45e model, which is powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter 6-cylinder gas engine paired with electric motor for a total of 389 horsepower and an estimated pure-electric driving range of 30 miles. The 40i powertrain gains a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, but horsepower is unchanged. The xDrive50i model has been dropped, although the M50i remains, and the X5 M Competition switches from separate model to option package. Satellite radio and Android Auto now standard. 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 with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system that makes 335 hp. A turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 puts out 523 hp in the M50i and 600 hp in X5 M or 617 hp with X5 M’s Competition Package. 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 an Extended Traffic Jam Assist feature 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 2021 BMW X5 provides excellent passenger and cargo room along with a competitive list of available convenience and safety features. 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.