2019 BMW X5 | Is It Still The Mid-Sized Luxury King?

For 2019 the X5 sees some big changes. It's no longer BMW's SUV flagship now that the X7 has landed and by all appearances the optional 3rd row is soon to be killed off. Although there's sure to be a fire-breathing X5M soon, the rest of the X5 lineup seems to have doubled down on civility and comfort rather than trying to be the best track day crossover. Can the X5 still reign supreme in this brave new world?
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[@ProjectFairmont]

Thanks for thorough review of this and it’s competitors!

[@Josef8080]

Hey Man! nice review you've done. Thanks a lot Alex.

[@valdius85]

I wish to see more tail gate openings similar to X5 on more models. I use my trunk often and Alex`s explanation of benefits got me more excited than the air suspension that will cost a fortune to repair ;)

[@ionperpegel4963]

Very detailed, very thorough review, as usual. Congratulations.

[@ThatWasherNerd]

Excellent review as always!

[@jojomanstyle]

I like the way you've displayed all the information on the screen

[@odessa69max]

This is the best review and comparison of X5 to direct competitors.

[@jimbush80528]

Fantastic review. Alex, you the best by far!

[@olorin11]

Love your review! Great info graphics 👍🏼

[@WrenchMonkey88]

People should do that in their vids

[@conlomerate4841]

Best X5 review on KZbin period.

[@stacybearse364]

Really good reporting. Thank you!

[@Origen17]

Ready for your full-length review of the X7!

[@jaredstephenson6468]

I wish you’d just say your husband instead of the “6’5” passenger” you always mention. You won’t lose viewership, your viewers are here because you do the best reviews.

[@LeoTheShortGuy]

Excellent analysis as always.

[@bingbong59]

Best review I have ever seen so will subscribe-please review BMW X6

[@Jaymac720]

I wish more cars had a clamshell tailgate. They’re perfect for tailgating and holding tons of stuff. The X5, Land Cruiser (LX570), and full size Range Rover are the only three SUVs I can think of with a clamshell Edit: I’m pretty sure the Rolls Royce Cullinan has one too but that’s on the next level. Also the old Volvo XC90

[@legambaz]

Feuwww. Glad you remember and edited......the XC90 has been having that since it's launch in 2003. Americans have been designing SUVs way back when they were nicely known as Suburban Trucks.

[@Mrd7em0]

Wow best review thank you

[@noname-JS]

Agreed -- just test drove X3 m40i -- I'm liking what they are doing

[@babaktaherian]

Thank you for the most informative reviews available Alex. Would you please also coment on how high the seating is relative to the floor. It can be critical for taller folks like me at 6'7". Thanks.

[@dankragnes1205]

Nice review Alex. I already have a 2018 BMW 640i GT and love that vehicle. Just purchased a new 2021 X5 for my wife and it is awesome. Love the quality and the refined engine. Had a new 2021 GLC with the noisy 4 engine. Hated it so much that after 2 months traded it in for the X5.

[@dreaarc1]

The new x5 is awesome! However as a new mom I went w the 2020 gle. The interior is the best in the game right now w the new infotainment system and overall layout. Also it is significantly more spacious inside. Excellent review btw!👌🏼

[@SAnand19]

Thank you for the reviews you do. Is this video running a tad faster or I am experiencing it only from my end? Your voice/talking speed is a bit quicker.

[@gue3bara]

This guy is really the best to ever review any car

[@Random-ye1xr]

Love those SUVs, nothing else compares.

[@johnclaeys376]

We found the standard suspension for the X5 just right, not too floaty but still an xlnt balanced ride and driving experience. There is a huge hit in MPG if you drive without paying attention to efficiency. 18MPG combined vs. 22 with “an egg under your foot”. Interior quality is top notch, but the buttons are small and there are changes to screen segments which will require a learning curve. We went from an X3 to X5...quite the leap actually. The X3 was really fun to toss around, the X5, not so much. It is so sumptuous! Worth every penny! A keeper for sure!

[@GodZji]

Charging annually on car play is stupid move BMW. Great review Alex.

[@vistastructions]

Break My Wallet, to the next level

[@dailyrant4068]

As a BMW fan I have to agree. Their initial argument is that it's wireless which was in fact unique at the time. however, Audi has recently introduced wireless carplay and they are still free so BMW needs to get on the wagon.

[@dailyrant4068]

And about freaking time, they stopped charging for carplay now, most likely due to MB and Audi also having wireless carplay now so they no longer have that excuse.

[@GodZji]

@@dailyrant4068 I just ordered X5MC today lol

[@TheMystro1971]

The BMW X5 invented this category. It now owns it once again. Luxury is unbelievably opulent but still drives like a BMW athlete.

[@DefineScrib]

Didn’t know BMW was paying u lol

[@dhazari]

Please do a detailed review of the iDrive system. It is so different than earlier versions.

[@alliejr]

Fun fact, BMW USA headquarters are in northern New Jersey (just outside New York City). That's why Alex's (and everyone's) loaner has a New Jersey licence plate.

[@JamesRussoMillas]

I live 20 mins away lol

[@dchawk81]

That and 92% of the douches driving BMWs are in NJ.

[@tjk9263]

Fun fact, anyone who drives a BMW thinks that they are built without turn signals!!

[@keith692]

Okay I am sold. Was going to consider getting the Aviator, but after this review, going for the X5

[@zacharymbradleyjr]

Here's your one chance Fancy don't let me down💁‍♂️ EXCELLENT REVIEW! Now, if I can somehow convince the Law Of Attraction to bring be a 2019 X5, I'll be set!

[@itayrozenstein6989]

I love it. I'll get one just like this white same wheels x40i

[@maureencora1]

One of My Top 4 SUVs.

[@clnred]

Very good and interesting review. Have you tried if the "sport" brakes beat the 120ft? It's a lot of car to stop and if you watch the iihs test of autonomous brakes and pedestrians it makes it more obvious how important this is.

[@weirdshibainu]

Great review Alex. Other than personal choice, arecthe overall dynamics between the x5 and 5 series sedan comparable? Would you choose a 5 series sedan or the x5? Thanks

[@jamiesausser1282]

I cant wait until your able to compare the 2020 Lincoln Aviator to these other models Alex.

[@Stardragonszzz]

Great review as always! Could love to see the new X5 Vs Volvo xc90.Cheers!

[@ivanlowjones]

They really aren't direct competitors. I own an XC90 and this X5 is in a different league as far as powertrain performance and certain technologies. Luxury is comparable although Volvo offers more standard drivers assistance tech and safety features since BMW would charge buyers $400 for Bavarian Black Forest infused air in each of the tires if they could get away with it.

[@Stardragonszzz]

@@ivanlowjones Thanks for the reply, I own an X5(F15) ,thinking to upgrade to this new X5 or the XC90. How do you like your XC90? Thanks!

[@ivanlowjones]

@@Stardragonszzz I still love my 2017 XC90 T6 R-Design although Alex was correct in his comparison of the XC90 vs the X5. Volvo's powertrain performance can't match even the base X5's 6 cylinder motor, let alone the 8 cylinder versions. Volvo's Sensus infotainment system was cutting edge in 2016 but that might as well be 1996 in technology years since BMW, Mercedes, and Audi have all introduced newer and fancier systems in 2019. The well optioned higher trim T6 XC90's (R-Design and Inscription) still compare equally in interior luxury and amenities like Alex stated while the Germans still financially sodomize buyers with overpriced options that Volvo includes as standard, like drivers assistance and vehicle safety technologies.

[@dominicarlistico6557]

Unbelievable review very helpful

[@disputor2000]

Alex! Are you going to test the X5 45e? Seems to be getting great reviews and we would love to know your opinion!

[@jovar.3649]

As always, great review, Alex. I feel that all of these high-priced German luxury cars would be fun to have... for two weeks and then give back. I wouldn't want to lease one of these vehicles for 3 months, let alone 3 years.

[@harryli6138]

those buttons around the shifters...it looks better but when u push one all of them goes down. I still prefer my 2017 x6m's center control buttons. probably replace it as soon as I can test drive, build and get delivered the new cayenne turbo coupe, which is probably a year or so lol

[@elkawash]

Beautiful

[@RichardinNC1]

Very thorough review! I would assume the M Sport package would provide better handling. Yours didn't have that.

[@BrogeKilrain]

X35D diesel has it all over performance wise

[@mavricxx]

I love the tailgate on this X5 but the omission of rear seat reclining is huge flaw in my opinion, even my Mazda CX-5 has reclining rear seats. I wish BMW brought back the full size spare wheel back which was one of the reasons I fell in love with BMW when I got my first one and once they did away with it, I stopped buying them as well. As a consumer/user, I just don't feel safe driving around without a spare wheel. Another thing that turns me off about BMW is that they charge a subscription for Apple Carplay and don't have Android Auto. Another thing I wish BMW made an offroad model or offered aftermarket options to make it higher off the ground to what the M-model is. I don't like the air suspension, later on it becomes a super expensive thing to fix.

[@bunty6302]

Alex , i am using Apple car play for almost year & half in my M550 , I don’t have to pay anything after year .

[@Joemun77]

I agree X5 is really nice but for me i’d prefer the GLE just for the infotainment the suspension and simple looks.. as always nice review 👍🏾

[@danielmelendez9943]

both cars are a like carton of milk, they do the body good but they both have an expiration date.. once the warranty is up, they both become a money pit with expensive repairs.

[@directordave1]

2019 X5 40i MSport is my daily driver. Your review is very good -.personally I do not like the air suspension and prefer the MSport for a little better handling plus the MSport brake option. BMW also offers acoustic glass to make it even quieter. The bad engine is sweet. Reliability has been a bit iffy in the first year but seems to be improving. I agree Alex that the Porsche is the best in the segment, I just couldn’t justify another 15K or so. I disagree on your like of the MDX - I think this generation of the MDX is more mini-van like (loved the previous then). Again, nice review and I think we mostly agree. The X5 isn’t perfect, but it is a heck of a ride.

[@dailyrant4068]

Very fair points. Cayenne also charges more on options than BMW (as usual) and long term maintenance is even more expensive. People who complain about luxury maintenance cost haven't seen Porsche prices. One thing that most BMW critics (typically people who have never owned or driven one) is that BMW almost always underrates their engines. Just think about it, how could a car as heavy as the X5 make the 0-60 at 5 seconds flat with "only 335HP?" Also they can get 20/26 MPG out of this combination of weight and performance is just insane. Porsche usually beats BMW in handling, but when it comes to engine they don't have much to offer until you go up a few more tiers (their GTS, turbo lineup) but BMW has the M for that.

[@JamesRussoMillas]

Paying for Apple Car play and not having Android Auto is more of a sin than Apple prices themselves.

[@gregorytrane7828]

I've owned or driven most if not all these vehicles aforementioned, for over 25 years through all their iterations. In my opinion, after driving and owning many of these vehicles over the years I feel BMW has traded their once esteemed driving dynamics, for a more comfortable and luxury oriented vehicle for the American market, which is one of their biggest buyers markets. Porsche on the other hand has picked up the niche BMW has lost and even stepped up their ultimate driving machines to the next level with no trade offs to quality. That's why they're so expensive. They now have fewer competitors in build quality and sporty driving dynamics and for that I commend them. Good review.

[@paulm6481]

It is what old mid-size executive sedans used to be. Nice six cylinder engine as base and luxurious inside. Nothing cheap about it anywhere. And looks better than Mercedes or Audi

[@jaredstephenson6468]

I still think the XC90 is the winner in this category...might be a bit biased since there’s one in my garage. But hey, it was your review that solidified that decision!

[@eliasvanthooft3723]

Xc90 is x7 and q7 class … and the x7 is def a lot nicer than a xc90

[@hamlee280]

Simply Best!.

[@santana9537]

Glorious

[@mkong3]

please make a video on the new idrive =)

[@jlwagon]

Would love to see a review of the X5 45E. The 30-mile EV range and the $7500 tax credit are compelling reasons to place it on my list. My most pressing concerns are long-term reliability and cost of ownership over the life of the vehicle. My current vehicle is an 05 Accord and I'm sort of eager to get into something newer, larger, and more versatile.

[@geovannivarela6932]

I agree Alex I like the X5 at the top spot in this category.

[@WhoPonders]

Cayenne next please!

[@gencosmani4250]

Overall, a very good review. The comparison with the competitor models, makes this review very valuable. Since I have driven all competitor models shown on this video I generally agree with the comparisons made, except for one statement on the comparison with the XC 90. You mentioned that the XC90 had a more comfortable drive than the X5 which I disagree with. The air suspension of the XC90 feels very hard, up to a level where it is difficult to believe that the car has an air suspension. The handling of the XC90 wasn’t very good too. Incomparable to the X5. I agree on the comparison with the GLE and Q7.

[@jordancatcher6663]

Alex , you put the 2018 x5 as the thumbnail instead of a 2019. 😆

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

We caught that a hair too late LOL

[@dandoherty1964]

Would love a video of the latest iDrive

[@bardock2525]

Have a shot every time he jumps on his tiptoes during that intro.. 😄

[@bird718]

i had a x5e loner last year for a few days, it was very nice minus the weird cd/dvd sound of switching tracks comming from the hybrid system. the handling was way soft compared to my car but its a suv. if the 2019 is softer than that x5e then its not a big deal they will have the x5m or something for people who like to take the turns a little faster. not a fan of the rear lights on this model.

[@Sypil]

Another great review Alex! I shopping my self in this segment and I too am torn between the G05 X5 and the 2020 Mercedes 450. You are spot on with the observations I have had as well. I found the transmission doing odd things in the GLE whereas the X5 was performing how I expected. The GLE sometimes thrusted forward more than the input in gas I was giving, it didn't feel linear at times. The new interior of the X5 is nice, in fact I feel slight better put together than the GLE, but the technology in the Mercedes with the MBUX 3.0 is just better than the also impressive iDrive 7.0. As for the dash, I was a bit disappointed that the all digital dash in the X5 is relatively static. Sure you can change what is being displayed a bit on one side, and the middle, but the view feels so much more static/flat than what you can do in the colorful GLE. The GLE dash and interior technology is simply more impressive. Driving wise I have only tried the standard suspension on both models. The X5 handles and steers better since it was more firm than the GLE. The GLE steering felt relatively similar in tightness, but the suspension is slightly softer and hence the handling feels softer compared to the X5 (X5 handler, the GLE comfort). I would be curious an air suspension comparison between the two. I have heard that the air suspension in the GLE made drivers feel uneasy for steering, maneuvers and ride, but it kinda sounds like you were experiencing the same in the X5 (at least steering vagueness wise.) It does sound that the GLE $8K e-active suspension would address some of this, but it is simply too expensive and question its reliability. I can give some more information on the third row option and what I have heard/read. Dealers are just now able to order X5s with 3rd rows again. I have heard multiple reasons why the option went away, but what I was told just yesterday makes the most sense. Essentially they ran out of parts they needed to build 3rd row models and hence put a hold on that option. Ironically and amazingly there is a dealer in my area that actually has 4 X5s with the third row! They received these early in the release. I'm 6'7" and I have tried it out, I can sit side ways... From what I have read, it is a handy option for your kids friends that need a ride home from school and they are 4 feet and under. Some of the dealers are being told that the 3rd row orders will take another 3 to 4 months before BMW can build those orders. This is one of the reasons why I'm leaning towards the GLE since you can easily order with the 3rd row if you need to. Lastly, this is for those of you out their who are very tall like me (6'7" and mostly leg). The GLE has been the only SUV/SAV that I have tried (15 cars so far) that I do not have to move my preferred position in order to fit the rear facing car seat that we have. It is impressive! The X5, I basically could not have the rear facing car seat behind me (sadly). As a side note, the X7 did work for me, but only if the 3rd row seats were stowed (not when they are up.) When the X7 3rd row seats are stowed, it allows the 2nd row seats to come back 2 more inches. Alex, your GLE legroom numbers correct? According to Edmunds, and my own personal experience above, the GLE has quite a bit more than the X5 (different than the numbers you posted.) BMW X5: (77.2" total - which you have) front leg room: 39.8 rear leg room: 37.4 Mercedes GLE: (81.2" total) front leg room: 40.3 rear leg room: 40.9 Alex, I hope you can get your hands on one of the limited supply GLEs for a review soon =)

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

I'll ask Mercedes. The sheet they sent me has 40.3/38.4 which yields 78.7

[@Wasabi9111]

Sypil I’m also in the market for these 2. I love the x5 but was surprised how tight the rear seat legroom is. Haven’t had a chance to drive the x5 with air suspension. But I loved how our prior Mercedes w airmatic drove. I’m hoping the x5 will have a similar feel. Alex just convinced me to order the air suspension.

[@tarasyk2003]

Very thorough comment. In my opinion GLE is the best overall suv on the market if you dont need the third row. It beats BMW on space, practicality, technology and has excellent straight 6 plus mild hybrid combo which is again best in class. Did i mention PIMP suspention? Sadly X5 does not offer Android Auto either. Not sure how at the end X5 can win unless you are just BMW fanboy and dony think rationally.

[@Wasabi9111]

Taras Cool I’m leaning toward the X5 mainly bc it’s much cheaper than the GLE w similar options. The GLE requires you to select other options that I don’t need, which grossly inflate the price. Also, I find the GLE dash too high and claustrophobic. I was surprised that the GLE was relatively noisy on the bumpy, course hwy on my test drive. I drove the x5 immediately afterwards on the same route and it was quieter and isolated. I was expecting to really like the GLE. Maybe I need to test drive another one to confirm.

[@tarasyk2003]

@@Wasabi9111 here in Canada GLE is actually a bit cheaper than comparable X5

[@chinq6t]

@Alex, what about a Jaguar F Pace comparison to its 6 cylinder engine model?

[@killacamfoo]

is that grille big enough?

[@sudeeptaghosh]

Is it possible for you to review Macan?

[@md8744]

I sold it last yr 2018 it is suck with no recline back seats, 2 of my kids every time we packed for travel they were mad at me just because of no reclining seats for them to relax seat back. I don't know why bmw x5 designers were stubborn at this.

[@Jia1337]

Can't really go wrong with the new X5 or German SUVs, in general, these days considering SUVs are their best selling vehicles so they probably spent most of their money on SUV R&D. But yeah, the X5 is frankly one of the best SUVs out there right now.

[@bassandtrebleclef]

Try owning one past 50k miles.

[@SeanC773]

It’s horribly built. Creaks and rattles abound. I’d stay away.

[@edysinsimon8646]

I just recently looked at some other European reviews of the "new" X5 45e model. Yes, that's the name of the new plug in hybrid of this model. It's now going to be named, X5 45e model with the 6cylinder instead of the 4 cylinder motor BMW got it right this time around. Hope your able to see/review this platform sooner than later. As of this writing their is not a X-5 45e in the states just yet. They are out in other regions of the world but not here in the states just yet.

[@dariozupanovic2112]

You love x5 or hate,but all folks have to admit one,king of this class always was,always will be.best of the best.

[@RileyAaron90]

She said, here’s your one chance fancy don’t let me downnn!

[@esteemedenergy]

Best suv on the planet, we have owned 13 suvs, and we always go back to the X5 series.

[@Josef8080]

Totally agree with you. Sharp thought

[@futmut1000]

I dont know bro, i think a Porsche Cayenne would be better

[@imnotusingmyrealname4566]

What do you need so many SUVs for?

[@benbrown5913]

Better than a Range Rover?

[@DSKSeattle]

“owned” or leased?

[@kenko34]

X5 is definitely the best pick in this segment, I tested the new X5 with m-sport package and the new Cayenne (not the S) back to back, Cayenne is a hair batter on the handling, but the transmission hold it back, it is just not that good like X5's ZF 8speed automatic transmission. And when you go to the dealership trying to make a purchase of these two vehicles, you gonna find Porsche doesn't care about to give you any discount or any incentive to make a deal because of the car made in EU and way less made then X5. On the other side, BMW makes X5 here in the US they have a much shorter production time and much more productions, and the dealers of BMW will much more willing to sell the car to you if you are very good at bargaining a price you can even get your X5 below invoice price. So in the real world purchase, you will find about $15K-$20K difference between very similar equipped X5 and Cayenne. Which is to me is not worth that money at all.

[@edysinsimon8646]

I had to re-watch this one. I just learned that the new 2020 plug in hybrid X5 will have the straight 6 engine w/the plug in/hybrid system? Yeah...The "new" to the states 45e model of the X5...PLEASE review?

[@drw1926]

Yes, please.

[@pito405]

I love the X5.

[@GreatManBear]

Hey Alex, any chance you’ll look at the refreshed x5?

[@c21jumbo12]

Nobody mentioned about the standard run flat tires which is a big concern to many drivers till they have it.

[@guillermodvl]

For those prices reliability is a must.

[@jimc5696]

A rare error by AoA but new X5 hybrid is going to be a 6 cylinder/ battery hybrid - not a 4 cylinder as mentioned in this video.

[@valdius85]

Is that 15 or 50 miles range? ;)

[@mtnbiker014]

Jim C. Even the BMW website says it is a 4 cyl. - at least as of yesterday.

[@IDHerbert]

It a 6 cylinder straight petrol pairing in the UK and with 50 miles battery range promised under the new more stringent WTLP (brought in after the VW scandal) performance ratings.

[@md8744]

Ask BMW engineers why they don't like to put back seats recline? If you can. 👍 this is weird designed because it's kind of family and need to be reclined seats

[@tarasyk2003]

Would be nice to see GLE vs X5 side by side review.

[@maestroadam]

X5 is very obviously best in class.

[@bassandtrebleclef]

For 4 years or 50k miles, whichever comes first. After that, it's a walletectomy.

[@maestroadam]

Completely agree with you, there.

[@reasonsformoving]

I wish you’d talk about predicted reliability.

[@rockinfreakapotamuxs]

Luxury and confort before everyting

[@anotheran]

Engine placement doesn’t necessarily mean better or worse handling. You cite Quattro packaging on the q7/q8 being the cause of the heavy front and not as good handling, the Porsche Cayenne uses the same mlb evo platform that fixes the position of the engine to be entirely in front of the front axle, same as the q7/q8, yet you mentioned it has better handling. It entirely the suspension tuning in this situation

[@izuaff04]

functional in every area...

[@clnred]

I have ordered a x5 45e instead of the 3.0diesel.

[@fightingcarrot]

How do you like it compared to the 2019 Cayenne?

[@constantin58]

5:37 I wish the center console was less protruding for the rear middle passenger

[@trinisuprazee]

How reliable is this gen? Would you choose this or the Audi Q8?

[@rubenmarc]

Nice review! Speech is a bit over modulated though.

[@x5or]

Lovely review and nice presentation 👍 I made some off roading videos in this channel (X5OR) with a model fitted with off road package equiped with rear LSD

[@NauticaloneEd]

Great review as always. Are ventilated seats available?

[@EHCX___]

Yes they are

[@NauticaloneEd]

@@EHCX___ Great, thanks!

[@martinshelton1247]

Yes the BMW X5 is still the king of all midsize cars, it no other midsized vehicles out there can come close to the X5, that why the X5 cost so much money, and demand the prices.

[@Trap_Or_Die_84]

GotDamn Right it is!

[@noelsilva5381]

It funny about the third row because I live in New York and I seen some with the third row in their website. 🤔🤔

[@AdamZimmerman]

Did they drill into the bumper for that license plate?

[@davidwolf226]

This new X5 is definitely a very nice, comfortable, luxurious SUV. My only concern is whether or not ventilated seats are available with this model. That would be a deal-breaker for me, living here in the California central valley.

[@kermez9]

They are available as an option.

[@jamminz6673]

What about the ml which was the 1st