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BMW X5 (2014 to 2018)

Our unique Expert Rating Index combines scores from 35 of the top UK motoring websites to give you a definitive rating on every new car

Expert Rating

BMW X5 (2014 to 2018)

Not a current model

    Summary

    The third-generation BMW X5 was a large SUV that arrived in the UK in early 2014 and was updated in 2016, before being replaced by the current iteration of the X5 in 2018.

    Late in its lifespan, Carbuyer said it was the motoring equivalent of Sean Connery – “getting on a bit, but still impressively handsome”.

    In truth, the motoring media remained divided over the X5’s exterior looks while it was on sale, though journalists did generally agree that the X5’s upmarket cabin makeover and its range of refined engine choices were definite improvements over the model it replaced.

    “It’s still a sharp drive”, Car explained, “but it couples more maturity and refinement with a much more premium-feeling cabin.” What Car? called the X5 as a “formidable machine”, describing its driving dynamics as “saloon-like”, as the X5 handles more like a raised BMW 5 Series saloon than your typical bulky SUV.

    Available initially as a petrol or diesel SUV, a plug-in hybrid model joined the range for the first time in 2015, which Motoring Research called “technically brilliant”, due to how smooth the hybrid system was on the road. That said, Driving Electric pointed out that the plug-in hybrid’s all-electric range is nothing special by current standards.

    The most widespread criticism of the third-generation BMW X5 refers to its steep price tag, even as a used model, thanks to the car’s strong residual values. And while the X5’s price has remained high, its upmarket rivals have only been improving.

    As Carbuyer concluded, “the Audi Q7 is slightly nicer inside, the Porsche Cayenne is better to drive, while the Mercedes-Benz GLE is arguably smoother and more relaxing.”

    No longer on sale, the third-generation BMW X5 holds a used car Expert rating of 65% based on 38 reviews published by UK media sources. This is a markedly lower score than the current X5 model.

    X5 highlights

    • Upmarket interior trim
    • Well-equipped
    • Spacious cabin and boot
    • Range includes plug-in hybrid model
    • Strong residual values

    X5 lowlights

    • Expensive price tag
    • So-so fuel economy
    • Polarising exterior styling
    • Rougher ride with sports suspension

    Key specifications

    Body style: Large SUV
    Engines:
    petrol, diesel, plug-in hybrid
    Price when new:
    From £47,895 on-road

    Launched: Winter 2013/14
    Last updated: Spring 2015
    Replaced: Autumn 2018

    Media reviews

    Reviews, road test and comparisons from across the UK automotive media. Click any of the boxes to view.

    Auto Express

    +

    Autocar

    +

    Car

    +

    Car Keys

    +

    Carbuyer

    +

    Carwow

    +

    Daily Mirror

    +

    Driving Electric

    +

    Eurekar

    +

    Evo

    +

    Fleetworld

    +

    Green Car Guide

    +

    Heycar

    +

    Honest John

    +

    Motoring Research

    +

    Motors.co.uk

    +

    Parkers

    +

    The Sunday Times

    +

    The Telegraph

    +

    Top Gear

    +

    What Car?

    +

    Safety rating

    Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP

    No safety rating

    The third-generation BMW X5 was not crash tested by Euro NCAP during its production life.

    Eco rating

    Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP

    No eco rating

    The third-generation BMW X5 pre-dated the Green NCAP environmental assessment programme and so was not tested during its production life.

    Reliability rating

    MotorEasy logo 600x167

    Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy

    All data based on MotorEasy average workshop costs for extended car warranty claims

    The BMW X5 has a very poor reliability rating of just 15%, according to exclusive extended warranty data provided by our partner MotorEasy. This score covers both the third-generation X5, as well as its predecessor (2007 – 2013) and the current iteration of the X5.

    In addition to its poor rating, the average repair cost to date has been high at almost £1,200. That’s obviously considerably more than the cost of a used car warranty, which is worth bearing in mind if you own a BMW X5 or are planning to buy one.

    Given the below-average reliability score and potentially expensive bills, make sure any extended warranty cover you purchase for an BMW X5 covers all of these potential problem areas.

    Awards

    Trophies, prizes and awards that the BMW X5 has received

    2016

    • Business Car Awards – Best Large 4×4

    2015

    • Business Car Awards – Best Large 4×4

    2013

    • Golden Steering Wheel Awards – Best SUV

    Similar cars

    If you’re looking at the BMW X5, you might also be interested in these alternatives

    Audi Q7 | BMW X6 | Genesis GV80 | Land Rover Discovery | Lexus RX L | Maserati Levante | Mercedes-Benz GLE | Porsche Cayenne | Range Rover Sport | Volkswagen Touareg | Volvo XC90

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    No longer on sale, the third-generation BMW X5 is as luxurious as it is imposing on the road, but its not all that cheap to buy outright.BMW X5 (2014 to 2018)