To Plug Or Not To Plug? | 2021 BMW X5 Plug In Hybrid

[@pclarkson]

I own this vehicle. My typical daily driving is under the 30+ mile electric range. I picked the vehicle up in February and still have not purchased gasoline.

[@JBM425]

TBH, I rarely disagree with Alex’s ratings because he explains or justifies his decisions well, but I have to take issue with his C grade for fuel economy. That is unfair, and I would give it a B. I understand that in typical hybrid mode, the X5 i45 is 7 MPG lower than the XC90R, which is significant; however, that grade does not take into account operation in EV mode. That flips the scales around, and the X5 thumps the Volvo in EV distance. As you note, Paul, a person who operates mostly in EV mode will go weeks or even months before filling the tank. Despite the existence of the eMPG rating, that is something that is difficult to quantify. At any rate, the X5 i45 deserves a better fuel economy score when you factor in EV mode operation.

[@jerz8289]

awesome.. I just got one and had to drive it from a dealershipp 260 miles away from my home... My return journey burned through the 75% charged battery so the car ran in depleted battery hybrid mode- MPG is 31. That was mostly highway driving at 75 mph though. I love the plug-in option and that is the SOLE reason why I chose this SUV over most all competition.

[@florinvid]

Love it! Way to go!

[@DADVICETV]

I got a 2021 X5 xDrive 45e back in November and am still on my 2nd tank of gas (1 fill up). I love how it drives and the laser headlights (I got the executive package). A few things I don't care for are the small 2nd row (it wouldn't hurt to give another inch of legroom and take a tad of the room from the back) and wind noise around the 2nd-row windows. The vehicle is so quiet that I sometimes wonder if a window is slightly open. I ended up disabling the hand gesture feature - it kept doing things when my wife or I talked with our hands. The wireless Apple Carplay has been flawless - love that. I charge it overnight with the level 1 charger in the garage and the limited electric range gets me back and forth to work without a drop of gas. BMW has done a great job with the level of customization in the software - I find it easy to navigate and get things just how I like them. I'd like to be able to turn on the massage seats automatically each time the vehicle starts, have the front camera turn on when slowing down (Acura does this well), and be able to see my side view cameras when I turn on the turn singles (like Hyundai/Kia/Genesis does). Making the switch to a Hybrid has taught me that my next vehicle will be 100% electric. It do not miss going to the gas station at all. One other area I dislike the vehicle - the cup holders are not great. The 2nd row only has 2 not-deep cupholders in the armrest, and the front seats are right up next to the wireless charger and USB ports.

[@bardock2525]

Quick question - bought or leased? I have heard everyone say lease bmw cars not buy.. But then in US the electric version has a $7500 federal tax credit but only if you buy not lease.. So kinda torn now..

[@cma7427]

hows does the engine feel when u put it into combustion engine mode only? as the car has extra weight due to the batteries?

[@JBM425]

@@cma7427 It's the same "base" engine as in the X5 and X7, a turbo six, so it's very capable, even with the battery pack. Both the gas engine X5 and X7 are rated to tow almost 6,000 pounds, so the added weight of the battery pack in the X5 i45 shouldn't be a problem.

[@cma7427]

@@JBM425 okay thank you very much, appreciate it

[@RobertLeBlancPhoto]

@@bardock2525 We just ordered a fully loaded X5 45e and we'll be financing it to take advantage of the rebates, and we'll probably only keep it for about 6-7 years, as usual.

[@chosenArchitec]

Just came here to see how big the grill was. I'm glad they kept it modest

[@thelarry383]

modest by today's standards

[@jamesday7344]

Looks sharp

[@updlate4756]

Some cost analysis between the ICE version and the PHEV version. ICE gets 23 mpg, taking 1.34 gallons to go 31 miles. PHEV version takes 17 kWh to go 31 miles. To go 31 miles, the ICE version costs $4.02 ($3 / gallon) or $6.70 ($5 / gallon). The PHEV costs $2.55 (15 cents / kWh). Presuming you drove exactly 31 miles every single day of the year, the PHEV version would save $536 - $1,514 per year depending on gas price. If the PHEV driver travels beyond that distance and has to use gasoline, some of the savings will be lost. If a person has a 62 mile r/t commute and has access to home and workplace charging, then the savings doubles to $1072 - $3,028 per year depending on gas price. PHEVs also require less maintenance. They potentially have longer periods between oil changes and engine air filter changes, fewer brake pad and rotor changes, potentially fewer spark plug / coil pack replacements, and potentially less problems experienced by the engine overall which is used less. The PHEV's savings could easily improve by another $200-$500 per year on average. The lifetime of the PHEV's drivetrain could potentially improve to over 200k-300k miles fairly easily, and I wouldn't be surprised if used vehicle price retention is improved. BEV and PHEV used car prices have been increasing. PHEVs do often see higher state registration fees to make up for missing road taxes that would normally be paid for in gasoline purchases. In the future, don't be surprised if states or the federal government add an emissions tax to gasoline purchases, which will make the PHEV's TCO even more superior to the ICE version. This vehicle also benefits from the ability to pre-heat the car in the garage... something the gas version can't do. You will make fewer gas station trips since you start every day with a full charge (assuming a level 2 charger is installed). The electric motor is quieter than the gas motor, and you will notice that you aren't sniffing exhaust fumes as much... so much so that you WILL notice when other cars are pumping out them fumes. With the total purchase price of the vehicle being cheaper than the gas only version after federal tax credit... it's a no brainer to buy the PHEV version. The only exception would be if you absolutely need 3 rows of seats. No... you don't need to ever charge outside of your own garage. However, if you don't plan to charge this overnight and/or at your workplace every single day, then this vehicle isn't meant for you, and its operating costs will actually be higher than the gas version.

[@WaywardAnalysis]

Also, most non-BMW ICE gives higher mpg as well as the ability to use regular 87 octane gas (saving additional 30% on fuel cost).

[@blueschild61]

You are the best, most thorough, least annoying auto reviewer on KZbin. I love cars and want to learn about all the new stuff going on in the auto industry. But, I really have to suffer through that Doug guy. Your reviews are a pleasure to watch. Good job.

[@jeffreywong6842]

Took 3 months for my custom order to arrive, picked it up last Friday and it's amazing coming from a Tesla Model 3. My daily commute is ~20 miles so perfect for me. All 45e qualifies for the entire Federal $7500 tax credit.

[@bardock2525]

That federal credit is if you buy not lease correct? So you bought, I'm assuming? But I always hear people say lease luxury cars like bmw not buy.. Any thoughts?

[@Good1vibes]

@@bardock2525 I have never leased a luxury or non luxury brand but I got the $7500 federal credit (purchase only) plus $1500 rebate and $2000 BMW credit with 0.9 % at near invoice. There could be more rebates in Southern California. I have 2015 Mercedes ML 400 that has been trouble free close to 100,000 miles. I take my Mercedes to Las Vegas to the mountains and beaches. Get yourself an extended warranty only on luxury brands just in case but negotiate the price.

[@bardock2525]

@@Good1vibes makes sense.. Thanks for the response! 😊 will be moving to Central valley California around September and hoping to have a 45e delivered around that time when I move.. Need to start negotiating with some dealers now.. Fingers crossed.. 🤞😊 Another question though.. I see you haven't mentioned any dealer discount off from msrp.. Did you just not write it or did you not get it? I have heard of discounts around 7-8 % from msrp on this car along with the other benefits you mentioned..

[@bardock2525]

@@Good1vibes also.. This 0.9% apr.. Does this have any conditions? Apart from having a good credit score.. Like does it need to be a 60 month loan or something? Don't wanna go beyond 48 months..

[@Good1vibes]

@@bardock2525 I got it below invoice but not much which was rare for this X5 and with very limited hybrids. I was searching all over Southern California for an x line Arctic grey with white ivory interior and 21” wheels and found one at BMW Palm Springs. I hope you get one.

[@V10PDTDI]

If an award would be given for the best Automotive reviewer you would certainly get It also Sofian would at least get honourable mentions.

[@gregruppert2555]

Savagegeese is better, though very different

[@ElijahsAba]

Tom Voelk at Driven is my favorite. His reviews are significantly shorter than Alex’s, but then again, he doesn’t try to be a talking owner’s manual explaining every feature of the car, like Alex does. He’s much more about the driving experience.

[@cyco1978]

Got it back in October I got 3500 mile, 2100 In electric, smartest vehicle purchase I’ve ever made (no regrets)! I’ve gotten over 30 miles of electric, depending on if your running the AC/Heat. & with the gas situation going on, I plug it up everyday now 😂

[@WaywardAnalysis]

All PHEV's are great for people who drive 7K/yr. You would get this type of EV to non-EV rate for the 7K/yr driving on any PHEVs. But, if you drive over 15K (in my case over 30K/yr), this PHEV will be far more expensive to drive than other PHEVs and you have to use extra expensive premium unleaded gas for this BMW, unlike the regular gas you can use for Volvo and RAV 4 Prime. BTW, I'm owner of BMW X5 and always use my Mercedes Diesel (ML 250 Bluetec) for long range driving. With such short driving range along with consistent every day plug-in (most people can't do it) you should just get a pure EV. Also, the 205 W audio system (with no option to upgrade to better one), the entertainment factor for this BMW is probably the worst of any new vehicle.

[@cyco1978]

@@WaywardAnalysis I usually only drive about 4/5k a year, but I love this suv, I’ve been driving more. Most of my driving is around the city, so it’s perfect. I’ve only had it 7 months, I’m already ready to got fully electric.

[@Good1vibes]

Regenerative braking at its finest with the fine luxuries on the X5. Yes, you can get a non luxury brand hybrid or full electric but life’s too short.

[@cyco1978]

@@Good1vibes definitely the I like the IX, it’s a little to rich for me 😆, starting @ what my X5 sticker. I know by the time I load it up, it will be around 95k 🤦🏾‍♂️

[@JBM425]

I recently rented a mid-size sedan... or, I should say, that's what I requested. The rental location was out of those, so they gave me a free upgrade. That upgrade: the BMW X7 i40. I think I'm spoiled now; it was extremely comfortable, and it accelerated quickly without breaking a proverbial sweat. Thankfully, I have a Toyota Avalon Hybrid Limited, so it's not a steep drop down going back to my mundane day-to-day life. If I were buying a BMW, I would probably opt for the X5 because I would usually be the lone occupant and don't need the third row that's in the X7. This hybrid X5 would also be attractive to me for urban/suburban driving where I wouldn't go past 30 miles a day, so I could run most of the day in EV mode. That reminds me... I need to buy some lottery tickets. ;)

[@davidbrighten2572]

Looking forward to the updated review of the new 2024 X5 50e. Just ordered mine.

[@tjs114]

For those in California, this model qualifies for the California Clean Fuel Rebate of $1500, but it does not qualify for the Clean Vehicle Rebate program. The only plug-in hybrids that qualify for that program now (as of April 6, 2021) are the Chrysler Pacifica, The Ford Escape, the Honda Clarity and the Toyota RAV4 Prime.

[@jeffreywong6842]

Yep, got the credit directly from the dealer, together with BMWFS 0.9% APR and $2500 credit for using BMW financing.

[@BlackhawkPilot]

My EV has a 30KW battery with 27KW usable. Easily fully charges over night, not 20 hours using 110 VAC.

[@blueschild61]

I've really admired this car. There are a dozen different things to be impressed by. But now that I've learned about the tailgate I'm on my way to the dealership.

[@jerz8289]

You can also kick at the rear bumper and it automatically opens.. kick at it again and it closes

[@miata1370]

@@jerz8289 ...True...unless you get the towing package which then eliminates the "kick to open" feature...

[@botbs]

Put this PHEV engine in the 3 series, call it M340e with M-Sport Diff!

[@LBjell]

Alex can you add the adaptive cruise/self drive as a grade on your grading page? Stays in lane, bounces, what happens when you don’t hold the wheel, when it shuts itself off... might add 30 sec per video. Love your content and the detailed info you share - I’ve watched hundreds - my only wish is you would consider a grade for this specific point, at least on the vehicles that are daily drivers.. everyone I know talks about this, but there isn’t much attention by any of the online reviewers..

[@anydaynow01]

This is a really good suggestion!

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Since they are all hands on the wheel systems I have an issue with this kind of testing

[@DisjointedConversations]

@@AAutoBuyersGuide how about include availability.

[@jazzfan7491]

Great idea! Many buy cars based on these systems these days!

[@georgiafan6618]

My bro in law has this car. He installed a powerful charger in his garage and it did speed up charging times. The battery is very heavy, over 500 lbs. So it’s debatable whether the hybrids extra cost verifies its mpg increase. He said he could feel the weight of the battery in turns. IMO the standard lighter 6 cyl X5 with 26mpg hwy and 0-60 times at just over 5 secs, offers plenty of speed and decent mileage.

[@justinjoseffy934]

You’re not getting the e for speed. Lol. You’re getting it so you can go to the gas station 6x a year

[@georgiafan6618]

@@justinjoseffy934 You left out the long lines at recharging stations, the small number of stations altogether, the long wait to recharge the vehicle, the car fires, the recalls, unreliability - the cancellations of vehicles like the Ford E-mustang that are wholly unreliable, the limited battery life, the over zealous battery life data that EVs can go long distances on a charge, the dismal towing data that eats battery charge, etc. Not ready for prime time. PS BMW towed My bro-in-law’s X5e because of known defect. I’d get a hybrid before a fully EV.

[@gordonyz4]

Many ppl got around 13% discount on regular 40i 2 years back, better than federal credits for this vehicle.

[@GrumpyXer]

Just imagine the trouble codes this will generate in ten years

[@GrumpyXer]

and selling for $2500 on craigs list

[@austinmaness8339]

LOL. YUP. I had an 88 M5 and that thing was a ridiculous with the codes.

[@MikeyBadabingBadaboom]

A 32yr old car that doesn't have trouble codes would be weird.

[@davidtracy9058]

Nice job, Alex, I like your style, you’re thorough

[@kristians2704]

Personally, I think that the BMW X5 is the midsize SUV on sale. You literally get everything: turbo inline 6 as standard, RWD based, good looks, nice interior, tons of tech, V8 option, PHEV option.

[@cbaykal001]

I have already put my money on the BMW. Plus APR credit of $2500 , 0.9 Financing and Owner Loyalty makes the deal sweeter.

[@Good1vibes]

I’ve always wanted and needed an X5 years ago and the PHEV made it more nicer. Don’t forget the federal tax credit, clean fuel rebate, other rebates because the X5 45e makes it a better option compared to the combustion engine. The batteries and it’s components have a 8 year or 80,000 mile warranty. So drive it and enjoy it. I have the ‘21 Xline in Arctic gray with white ivory and 21” wheels with the options that I will use.

[@dgdave2673]

Good review by Alex as usual. Two things I disagree, first is the handling, it’s certainly B+ for something in this category SUV class. Other than the regular X5s, regular and Hybrid Cayennes, nothing comes close to this. Q7 and Q8 may be at par. Second and this is a major review rating gap is efficiency. If the use case is 35 miles or less or even 50 miles with ability to charge at work or wherever, this makes a tremendous case for itself. That’s 90% of typical usage for anyone. Upto 100 miles a day, it still makes great case as a balanced hybrid. Anyone that does 100 miles plus a day and mostly freeways with not much ability to charge should not be getting this at all. Stick to the regular X5. In this category there is nothing to beat this currently ( Oct 22) so the rating is surely a solid A. Alex should compare this to the newer XC90 with extended EV range

[@joetacchino4470]

You forgot one....the Cayenne E Hybrid. It's a good chunk more $$, but it's the same category. 2 row, midsized, plugin hybrid. Also, both it and the BMW you are reviewing get the full $7,500 credit. Can you tell I'm in the market? ;)

[@PaulTalbert]

Love the Cayenne e-hybrid, just a shorter e-range

[@minivanman1356]

The lincoln aviator can be had as a plug in !!

[@linchen8353]

Tax Credit for this vehicle is actually $7500, Not $5800 mentioned in video.

[@juukyj]

Agreed

Great review! Might you consider reviewing the 2024 model? Thanks!

[@mwong000]

I have my 45e for 12 months now, and am absolutely delighted with the car. The only complaint I have is that the range in the USA is 30 miles instead of 50 miles. With the same 24 kwhr battery. My trips are ALWAYS closer to 50 miles. I was told BMW tried to keep their cost down by cutting corners in the regenerative hardware, but they can certainly update their software remotely to get it up to what they did in the UK. Tesla does 250 miles with a 70 kw battery, or 80 miles approximately on 24 kw. BMW X5 weighs more, so 50 miles on 24 kw is quite reasonable. But 30 miles is so poor that BMW should fix that, especially since they were able to do it in the UK already

[@mwong000]

@Alix Pennycuick I want to drive with pure electric virtually all the time, so as much as I can, I drive in Individual Electric mode. Since I live in the mountains, it is hard to estimate how far I would get on a flat road. But I can tell that the regen is not very good. When I go to town, I have to go a mild uphill for 2 miles, and then a steep downhill for 6 miles and mild downhill for 4 miles. The battery uses ¼ charge for the uphill, but it recharges 1/16 for the downhill portion. By the way, do you think the regen is better using eco pro than Individual Electric mode?

[@mwong000]

@Alix Pennycuick I did some more research and I found out that in UK, BMW sets full charge to 21 kW of the 24 kW battery so that the battery wont degrade with a full charge all the time. I the USA, BMW sets it to 17kW. This may have to do with the fact that BMW claims only 30 miles, so even with degradation, the battery can provide 30 miles after years of driving. By the way, this does not have anything to do with the Regen during deceleration.

[@mwong000]

@Alix Pennycuick I have been using your suggestion of setting my car at Eco-Pro. So thanks for the suggestion. I did not change to winter tires, because my 2011 X5 5.0i is so good on ice and snow with all seasons tires. I drive it skiing all the time, especially wen there are snowstorms and that I've never felt the need for snow tires. I feel the 2021 X5 4.5e is even better because of the lower center of gravity. I finally figured out why the X5 4.5e only goes 30 miles on electric in the USA, but does 50 miles in Great Britain. They use only 17kWh of their 24 kWh battery in the USA, but 21 kWh in GB. The reason is because : 1. Dummies here can leave the charge cable indefinitely on the charger without reaching the 100% mark, which shortens the life of the battery. We can only charge it to the 70% mark. If they gave us a choice, we are too dumb to figure out what it means, and why we should only charge it to the 80% mark most of the time. BMW thinks Brits are smarter. 2. BMW is worried that the battery may deteriorate below 80% during their warranty period. By using only 70% of the battery, it will be able to go 30 miles even after it deteriorates. We are such a litigious country that some lawyer is certain to sue BMW over the degradation of the battery.

[@SigAXG320]

@@mwong000 Good stuff. I live in the mountains myself (at approx 7k feet above sea level) with a 1 mile commute to work each way. Around town for errands, I'm pretty sure I can drive under 30 miles within a 24 hour period to take advantage of the EV capacity. However, 1-2 weekends a month, I drive about 175 miles each way down to sea level and then have to drive back up. I also plan on doing a 1000 mile round trip once every other month to southern california. So.......I'm not sure if I should go with the 40i xdrive or the 45e ........from what I read, setting the car in adaptive mode before a long trip should still yield pretty good mpg (I've read 30+mpg) as opposed to the 20mpg reported by the EPA in gas only mode. The issue is that when I get to sea level during those weekend trips, I won't have the chance to plug in before I drive the car back, and I have no idea if there is any battery left over to power the engine on the drive back up to 7000 feet during my round trip.

[@mwong000]

@@SigAXG320 if you look at the price difference of the 4.0i and the 4.5e and then apply the $7500 federal tax rebate and $4000 state tax credit, the decision for me to buy the 4.5e was easy to make. Plus the 4.5e has a lower center of gravity, and has standard air suspension, which makes the ride/handling sublime. Now BMW lent me a 4.0i for about 1 month when they did warranty work on my 2011 X5 5.0i, That 4.0i was already, very, very, very good. But I believe my 4.5e is even more luxurious, and produces more effortless power. You mention that you have to do occasional longer trips. I did a 2000+ mile round trip last year. The car cruises effortlessly at 100 mph in deserted parts of the Interstate. It feels like 75 mph on my 2011 X5 or 60 mph on my 2008 335i . When you slow down and have to accelerate, the car somehow has enough electric assist to do it. Even on a long hill climb (like 10+ miles), there is always electric assist. I suspect it leaves a little charge for that occasional acceleration and then recharges it again once you let up the accelerator. In any case even when the electric shows near zero, there is never any time I feel a lack of electric assist when I need it. Hope this info helps.

[@danielherskovic2103]

Would you recommend purchasing a 2021 bmw x5 in 2024? Are they reliable? Or will they start to need expensive repairs?

[@tejaskary]

Alex, missed your follow up full review on the Q5 plug-in. Though your initial review was great..Ended up leasing it and love it a lot! The crazy thing about the Bmw plugins (both x3 and x5) is how bad the fuel economy is after battery depletion. In the Audi I still easily get around 30mpg in hybrid mode (EPA is 27 I think)

[@WaywardAnalysis]

Agreed, BMW even says that the total range with 18.2 fuel tank is 400 miles, unlike over 550 for Volvo XC 90 and RAV 4 (with only 14+ tank size).

[@Tuxedo_Cake]

I don't like how Beamers still have the side mirrors mounted on the window instead of on the door. That should've been fixed by now. Other than that, seems like an alright car, IF there wasn't such a thing as a Tesla.

[@peterfessier9780]

The 2021 X5 qualifies for the full $7500 credit due to it’s large battery size.

[@patdonnellan1024]

Of interest...I have 2015 40e....brilliant ...am averaging over 60 mpg...My dream 45e...

[@ionperpegel4963]

Very good review. I agree with the conclusion and I have put my money on the bmw although I like Volvo design more. Congratulations

[@kevinmilne2380]

Hey Alex, if it's your money, are you getting the 40i for better gas fuel economy and lighter weight? Or are you getting the 45e with full electric option and tax credit savings?

[@wadecollins6290]

Had a ‘16 45e and it never got warm in the winter. Had a bunch of problems too. Constantly in the shop and traded a higher power bill for lower MPG. Got a Highlander Hybrid and haven’t looked back.

[@manoman0]

....at best 38 miles, at best. And then you have the overly complex ice drivetrain. VOLTEC was and still is the way to go.

[@A_Degenerate_with_Glasses]

I always chuckled when these cars are advertised with a under 100 mile EV range. People are throwing bags of money at trash. If they want to be an early adopter, be my guest, I'll just drive a 100% gasoline car until the technology in EVs improve far beyond what a gasoline/diesel car can do. Tesla is an option, but I want to see what other car companies can do. Sadly, they're a joke right now. It shouldn't take much, most people would probably be fine with a EV that can do 0-60 in 8 seconds with a range that is similar to a Honda Civic or Toyota Camry.

[@updlate4756]

VOLTEC wasn't exactly a straightforward drivetrain ... Best part of the Volts are their long range, but that's only possible due to its small size and low weight.

[@wgemini4422]

@@A_Degenerate_with_Glasses Depends on your commute. If your commute is less than 30 miles, then why lug a massive battery which is heavier than the ICE engine around? And for occasional road trips, refueling is still faster than recharging.

[@wgemini4422]

The drivetrain does not have to be complex. Electric motors are far simpler than ICE and with the Prius at least, removes the necessity of having a complex transmission, starter motor, alternator, etc... The hybrid system has actually been more reliable than gas engines with less maintenance. Depends on your commute, 38 miles can be more than enough. PHEVs are not for everybody, but for a lot of people, it can be the best of both worlds.

[@MrBoungie]

Great review ! If I could afford it, I would also choose the X5 45E.

[@JC-jw2kw]

Yeah same here! Just wouldn’t leave me with much cash left over 🤦🏻‍♂️

[@RobertLeBlancPhoto]

Go for it. We just ordered a loaded X5 45e.

[@jimconley7835]

Hey great guy, Jimmy here, listen can you please do a complete eval of the new 2024 BMW X5 50e really soon, and if you want, compare the 50e to the 2023 Jeep 4Xe, Also, my trying to decide between these two vehicles is for towing a 4,000 lb camping trailer about 3% of the time when I'm on vacations, if you could figure out how to evaluate these two Plug-in Hybrids' actual towing abilities towing 4,000 lbs, that could be a new untapped niche for you, Thanks, Jimmy 😊😊

[@cadriver2570]

The title is referencing the decision to buy or not buy the car, but why do people buy PHEVs and NOT plug them in? It seems to be pretty common.

[@brucejohnson6507]

A level 2 charger will be a purchase by a wise buyer.

[@kurrah100]

And Alex’s head just got dinged in the trunk comfort index segment. RIP

[@piyusjai]

Really Nice Video!!! You could make a buying decision out of this video… Such Details!!!

[@Ficon]

I bet the battery was upsized primarily to get the full $7500 tax credit. It's not a coincidence that you need a 17 kwh battery to get the full tax credit and this has 17.7 kwh usable. PHEVs have certainly made conventional hybrids moot. BMW would likely be more reliable than the Volvo long-term since the B58 engine was deemed good enough for the Zupra.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Yep

[@omelborpon3159]

Suggestion Alex: nix the trunk comfort index (who actually sits in the trunk?), and institute a spare tire index (no spare, temp spare, full sized spare, access to spare).

[@ElijahsAba]

Besides which, sitting in the trunk is not even legal. It’s a totally worthless index. What’s next: an engine bay cup holder index?

[@texanfournow]

24:03 I want to know more about the "Volco"

[@Jdplayz-bq4ys]

lol

[@ktpinnacle]

Other than the obvious off-road chops, how does this compare to the Grand Cherokee 4xe?

[@dgdave2673]

Better in every aspect, EV range, the butter B58 engine and standard air suspension

[@PaulTalbert]

You left out the Porsche Cayenne PIH.

[@orig_gee_man]

Does it have finally amber turning/signal lights? or it is an EU model?

[@updlate4756]

Shouldn't you be considering electric only range in your fuel economy figure? Or at least add a new category for electric range for PHEVs? Also, any idea what the electric only 0-60 time is? It's important to determine how slow you need to accelerate to get up to highway speeds without the ICE kicking on.

[@mwong000]

I don't know what the 0-60 time is with pure electric. I was also concerned before I bought it that it may not be enough. But after driving it for a year, I can attest it is all I need.

[@updlate4756]

Your tax credit figure at the start of the video is wrong; too low. 1:23 You correctly stated it at the end. I imagine you were quoting the credit for the old X5 PHEV which had a smaller battery. Also, the battery is 24 kWh, but it's only 17 kWh usable in the US, which is weird since the European version gets 21 kWh usable. Maybe it's different for larger SUVs?

[@PurpleMusicPrincePianoCovers]

Thanks for the comparison, great video. Curious if the BMW has adaptive cruise control like the XC90, the XC90 not only has adaptive, but it will steer for you and keep your car within the lines. Thanks!

[@JBM425]

It is available as an option. Compared to a lot of manufacturers, BMW seems to avoid bundling items like that. It might be to keep the base price lower, but at least you can get it "your way" without having to get other options you might not want.

[@PurpleMusicPrincePianoCovers]

@@JBM425 Thank you

[@yong-seuppark4737]

From this seemingly comprehensive review, I don't see any mentioning of HUD(Heads Up Display) does not work with polarized sunglasses, which most US drivers wear. I was very much dispointed of this difficiency after paying extra option for the high tech oriented German automaker BMW. I wish BMW discloses this issue or sales staff mention about it (good luck!). Afterall, without polarized sunglasses, it works great!

[@spuri2go]

Get different sunglasses that have the polarization angle parallel to the crystal lens in the HUD projector, much cheaper solution! Sunglasses are all over the place in terms of polarization angle

[@achow617]

Alex, what is the real world full electric only range you got from the X545E?

[@deepakkapoor721]

I get 32 to 33

[@Lbbflyer]

You didn’t mention the Lincoln Aviator plug-in as a competitor at all. It is a similar size, similar price, and has a third row. Very disappointed to not hear it included.

[@ricbrown5002]

Yeah as a journalist I would've expected him to mention it. To keep American brands from being forgettable mention and/or review more of them so they may become more memorable for us Americans.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

The aviator is a 3 row and this is a 2 row, it’s a different customer

[@ricbrown5002]

@@AAutoBuyersGuide yes I only say that simply because you talked about the XC90 which is a 3 row

[@Lbbflyer]

@@AAutoBuyersGuide I suppose I don't see it the same way as I'm personally cross shopping both currently. Aside from assumed badge prestige I don't see much separation. You would likely consider the Navigator to be an X7 competitor.

[@PP-qj1ez]

Why the federal EV credit is less that $6k for this car? If I am not mistaken, it depends on the size of the battery pack. This one as 24kW. Then why not full $7500 credit for it?

[@PP-qj1ez]

I am confused. 3:50 You said eligibility is $5800 21:05 You said it qualifies for full $7500 tax credit. Which is correct?

[@Good1vibes]

@@PP-qj1ez it’s $7500 federal tax credit

[@PP-qj1ez]

@@Good1vibes Thanks. Yeah, I figured it out later. Was confused during the video though.

[@brylesmith1374]

Alex please do an updated review on the Tesla Model Y!

[@jameskang6585]

Thank you Alex for the thorough review.

[@garrettw99]

I think the Kia Forte has been available with ventilated seats since 2014. This thing doesn’t have them

[@jeffreywong6842]

Who says it wasn't available? This is a BMW lol, of course it's optional upgrade package that you can buy.

[@garrettw99]

@@jeffreywong6842 no one said it wasn’t available. My point is that BMW picks your pocket for every little feature. Same with other European brands though.

[@eleganceortea]

Does 45e come with standard air suspension?

[@jsfbay1]

Do I have to have earned income to get the credit? I have the taxes part.

[@landshass2849]

For me, to plug 🔌 this car, I need to move to a house 🏡. With house prices are historically high, the price hike exceeds the price of this car, let alone the savings and rebates. I drive a Toyota hybrid anyway, and I live in an apartment at the back of a building with clif and mountain view, not a parking lot view. So, my plug won't reach.

[@nomearod]

Is this car going to self-charge during the driving? Where can I find the official documentation on it?

[@aussie2uGA]

The worst of both technologies. You’re taking the already complicated engine and transmission and now trying to cram batteries and ac motor in where it was never supposed to be. It will be a nightmare unicorn in years ahead. The reason for it is obvious as BMW can’t deliver a true EV X5 with enough range at the moment, but buyers should definitely lease this interim solution and then ditch it when lease ends.

[@kristians2704]

Just don’t own it after the warranty ends... This car is amazing overall. Nice interior, good to drive, a lot of tech and practical + the straight 6 from BMW is one of the best engines out there

[@danc1662]

My Crosstrek gets about 24-25mi in EV mode and it's only rated for 17!

[@najibyarzerachic]

It is weather dependent. In winter it will be around 10. They probably took the average. I had a Ford Cmax energi. Summer range was over 25 and winter 10 12.

[@danc1662]

@@najibyarzerachic I still get 15-17 in the winter as the EPA rated it.

[@najibyarzerachic]

@@danc1662 looks like crosstrek has better BMS or maybe cell chemistry is more robust.

[@danc1662]

@@najibyarzerachic I just drive it knowing when the regen kicks in and don't use the climate control to save battery. Just wish it had a better on board charger when I'm at a level 2 charger.

[@TheNAVagator]

Thank you for this video. I have a question. Do you know if there is a way to make adjustments to the regen braking? I feel like I would like the regen braking to be a little more aggressive, is that possible to adjust?

[@TwinFavorites]

How efficient is the battery power usage? At 24kw, it would cost about $5 of low tier electricity to fill, and that seems similar to the cost of a premium gallon. Is my calculation correct?

[@wileyredding6529]

Great explanation of vehicle features.

[@sahajpatel1553]

When will your Model Y 7 seater review come out?

[@updlate4756]

What's he gonna do... just sit in the back seat for 20 minutes? :p

[@sahajpatel1553]

@@updlate4756 he says he would do one

[@jjoselow]

But what about the Aviator Grand Touring...? Wouldn't that be a competitor?

[@nvn2005]

“Customers demand” What a lame excuse BMW’s given. If their campaign to promote drive electric then they would include the fastest charging cord not the L1 cord. No excuses for the price they’re selling

[@Good1vibes]

Kia is the brand you want then. It’s affordable and cheap.

[@ponticelli]

Thanks a lot, nice video! I’m considering the 2022 X5 45e but want to understand if in Florida the tax credit applies or not. As soon as the cars arrive in stock, I’ll ask a quote to my dealer

[@Jacobk66]

Don’t lease a X5, they aren’t a good value. You’re better buying one as they’ve got good resale.

[@jonshepard85]

Interesting. I was wondering about that. How do you know that’s so?

[@jbmcdoogle]

Did I see amber indicators out back? Please say yes

[@cbouchez]

Nice video!

[@sublimess]

Great video!! Thank you!!

[@butkusrules08]

Xc90 has bigger battery now for 2022. it has over 36 miles electric only.

[@future62]

That fuel economy is abysmal. On the gas side the regular 40i is faster and more fuel efficient. On the electric side 50MPGe is embarassing. The Model X is literally twice as efficient. I think the big problem is that weak electric motor. It needs a full size electric motor making 200-300HP. All the ZF plug in hybrids suck because of this.

[@LafemmebearMusic]

I just bought this vehicle two weeks ago. It’s fast as hell and they are underrating that range I got 40 miles on ev multiple times. Also, with a proper satalite data time got 0to 60 in 4.9 seconds... with a charged battery. It will eboost to that 4.9 even 4.7 seconds all the way down to 3 miles of charge. We didn’t get an m sport option and got the 18inch wheels and rubber body cladding and have been off-roading and back country camping with it in Mendocino national forest. Really a great vehicle so far.

[@LafemmebearMusic]

Oh also got 500 miles out of a tank not hoonin it on a trip recently. It’s literally did 29 mpg at 75 miles an hour

[@JBM425]

Fuel efficiency depends on your circumstances. If you drive less than 30 miles a day, you can drive exclusively in EV mode and hardly use any gasoline over the course of a months with the X5 i45. That is way, way more fuel efficient than the regular X5. if you commute more than 60 miles a day, mileage-wise it becomes a wash, and the extra cost of the hybrid becomes an albatross.

[@future62]

@@JBM425 with the weak motor I feel like it will be tough to stay in EV only mode. It needs a stronger motor

[@future62]

Update- I drove a 40e. The electric motor is serviceable off the highway. I'm hoping to buy one before the end of the month

[@automotive1485]

I am looking for a resistive heating element for cabin heating while plugged in, Does this has it ? Does this have electric AC compressor or conventional ?

[@Guenounovitch]

Very good review thank you

[@nevco8774]

BMW is different from Volvo by providing 31 mile pure EV range even in cold weather and on highways. Volvo has hard time on freeways to keep 70 MPH warming up and switching to HEV mode. Also in the winter Volvo loses up to 50% of the range. BMW is charching very slowly though 3.5 KW while Volvo charges much faster. When battery is depleted the Volvo has much better MPG than BMW though.

[@wgemini4422]

Are you sure? How does the BMW manage not to lose range in cold weather? The Canadian testers said he only got 40km for this car in Toronto weather.

[@nevco8774]

@@wgemini4422 I was watching Tom Moloughney KZbin channel claiming that range in relatively mild winter in New Jersey.

[@MikeyBadabingBadaboom]

Overpriced, doesn't matter how good the few small qualities this one has over the last Gen and its competitors. It comes down to the bigger picture at the end of it.

[@jonshepard85]

The bigger picture being very comfortable, great tech, fun to drive, not a plaything.

[@Good1vibes]

You can get a non luxury brand and call it a day but life’s too short for that. Enjoy life with a luxury brand vehicle as well as other luxury items.

[@KPApothecary]

Alex, now that Volvo has increased the electric range on their XC90, would you still choose the X5 over the Volvo?

[@112deeps]

In Europe & UK, X5 plug in does 50 miles ev only range! Do they use smaller batteries in USA

[@JohnDangcilGeekWere]

Higher average speeds in USA probably? Highway speed is usually our issue here.

[@112deeps]

@@JohnDangcilGeekWere, i did consider this possibility. 20 miles difference is rather big.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

The testing is different, the us number is closer to reality

[@AW-gj4ji]

@@112deeps probably because Americans are heavier 😝

[@damirbajic4579]

How? Mine gets 60-75 miles on electric only.

[@RexFlashMinistries]

You forgot about the Lincoln Corsair PHEV which started production this week.

[@tjk9263]

Started production but not on dealer lots yet

[@trevormeyers1157]

That will compete with the XC 60 and X3 PHEVs. Much smaller car.

[@jsfbay1]

Can you put navigation on the instrument lcd like Audi?

[@pclarkson]

Yes. You can also have turn-by-turn directions in the (optional) HUD.

[@Demargj2]

How does it Compare to for Porsche Hybrid?

[@billchen303]

This car is rwd, not awd?

[@laloajuria4678]

so get the cheaper MY?

[@JC-jw2kw]

I love it, but it’s expensive 😪

[@lukimy2704]

Long awaited

[@ferihendrotheblues4931]

is it fit to 5 + 2 seater?

[@Kevin-cf8uu]

If the next updates to the vehicle give it an EV range of at least 50-60 miles as well as a faster charger I may upgrade from my Tesla to it. It'll depend on some other features, the app, etc but I would absolutely consider it.

[@ktl2001]

uhhh why put a POS 3kw charger in a 24KWh battery?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Because it’s a hybrid still so you don’t “have to” charge it

[@sunfarm1963]

X5 45e

[@barbecuetechtips6024]

Lincolns better.

[@justinfontaine5539]

We have plenty of fuel. STOP FORCING EV

[@BLR1GBattlemaster]

Damn, I was wondering why it would take this car so long to charge on a lvl 2 charger, and now I know why. It only has a built in lvl 2 3.6 kw charger. Wow. For that big of a battery (20+kwh), that would suck to charge on public chargers.

[@birish21]

It's a hybrid you don't need to charge outside of home.

[@VolvoVT830]

The overall torque rating is higher than the sum of it's parts? How'd they manage that?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Engine plus motor max, it’s an odd calculation

[@silversurfergw]

not to plug in