What Is the 2015 BMW X5?
The 2015 BMW X5 is a luxury SUV that seats five or seven and competes with the Audi Q7, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Land Rover LR4, Acura MDX and Mercedes-Benz M-Class. It's offered in four configurations. The BMW sDrive35i and xDrive35i are rear- or all-wheel-drive options, respectively, and both have a six-cylinder engine. The all-wheel-drive xDrive35d is powered by a six-cylinder diesel engine, while the all-wheel-drive xDrive50i has a gas-powered V-8. All models are turbocharged and include an eight-speed automatic transmission.
What's New on the 2015 BMW X5?
The eight-speed automatic transmission in the 2015 BMW X5 has been updated, and BMW reports faster zero-to-60-mph times by 0.1 to 0.2 second. Standard features now include a sport leather steering wheel and keyless entry has been added to the xDrive50i model.
How Does the 2015 BMW X5 Compare to Other Luxury Crossover SUVs?
The 2015 BMW X5 exhibits better handling than the Land Rover LR4, Jeep Grand Cherokee and Mercedes-Benz ML350, and it has stronger fuel economy than most competitors. However, in cargo room, the Land Rover LR4, Mercedes-Benz ML350 and Jeep Grand Cherokee all offer more space than the X5. The Land Rover LR4 surpasses all other stated competitors in off-road ability, and it has a lower price than the X5.
What Features in the 2015 BMW X5 Are Most Important?
The 2015 BMW X5 sDrive35i and xDrive35i come standard with a 300-horsepower, turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 engine and either rear- or all-wheel drive. Upgrading to the xDrive35d adds a 255-hp, turbo-diesel 3.0-liter six-cylinder and all-wheel drive. A 445-hp, turbocharged 4.4-liter V-8 gas engine and all-wheel drive are included in the xDrive50i. All models include an eight-speed automatic transmission. When coasting or braking, a standard brake energy regeneration system stores kinetic energy as electricity in a larger-than-normal battery. An adaptive suspension, active roll stabilization and active steering systems are available.
Significant standard features include a power liftgate, panoramic moonroof, adaptive xenon high-intensity-discharge headlights, LED fog lights, 18-inch alloy wheels, two rows of seating, a 40/20/40-split folding second-row seat, power-adjustable heated front seats, a navigation system, a CD player, Bluetooth streaming audio, iDrive interface with a 10.2-inch screen, wood trim, push-button start, dual-zone automatic climate control and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with integrated controls. Available features include aluminum running boards, M Sport Package exterior trim, 19- or 20-inch wheels, a four-zone automatic climate control system, a third row of seating, leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, a dual-screen rear entertainment system and premium stereo options from Harman Kardon or Bang & Olufsen.
As with all new cars, the X5 includes antilock brakes, an electronic stability system and front airbags. Standard safety features include front and rear parking sensors, active front head restraints, side curtain airbags, side-impact airbags for the front seats and a BMW Assist emergency communication system with a 10-year subscription. Available features include a backup camera, surround-view camera system, night vision with pedestrian detection, and lane departure and blind spot warning systems.
Should I Buy the 2015 BMW X5?
The X5 provides responsive handling with its iDrive control system, and drivers who value high fuel economy will enjoy the xDrive35d diesel engine. However, adding a backup camera and leather upholstery require an upgrade, as neither are included standard.
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