BMW X5 2024 Review

The luxury mid-size SUV market in Southeast Asia has always been centered around configuration, performance, and brand power. The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e M Sport, as a representative plug-in hybrid in this segment, has attracted the attention of consumers who value the balance between energy efficiency and performance with its combined power of 489PS, 110km of pure electric range, and the sporty attributes of the M Sport package. The main purpose of this test drive is to verify how this vehicle performs in daily commuting, highway cruising, and light off-road scenarios, and to see if it can strike a balance between the comfort of a luxury SUV and the economy of a plug-in hybrid vehicle.

In terms of appearance, the overall style of the 2024 X5 xDrive50e M Sport leans towards sporty luxury. The front features a blacked-out kidney grille paired with the exclusive M Sport front bumper, while large air intakes on both sides enhance its aggressive visual appeal. The body lines retain the classic rugged silhouette of the X5, and the 21-inch M dual five-spoke wheels, paired with wide tires sized 275/40R21 in the front and 315/35R21 in the rear, further emphasize the sporty stance. The rear is equipped with an M Sport rear diffuser and dual exhaust pipes on both sides, complementing the overall design. The 3D LED taillights have a high recognition factor when illuminated. The lighting system comes standard with LED lights, including automatic headlights, front fog lights, and daytime running lights, balancing practicality with aesthetics.

Stepping into the cabin, the interior continues BMW's signature luxurious design. The dashboard features a combination of soft-touch materials and metal trim, with most touchable areas wrapped in leather. A 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster pairs with a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment display to form a continuous curved screen, running the iDrive 8.0 system. The system operates smoothly and supports wireless CarPlay. The multifunctional M sports steering wheel comes with paddle shifters and electric adjustment functions. Additionally, the HUD (Head-Up Display) can project information such as speed and navigation onto the windshield, enhancing driving convenience. In terms of features, the front seats support electric adjustment and memory functions, the rear seats have a 40:20:40 split configuration and can be remotely folded down. Standard luxury features also include a Harman-Kardon 16-speaker sound system, four-zone automatic climate control (dual-zone for the front and independent control for the rear), and rear LCD screens, catering to the comfort needs of family users.

In terms of space, the vehicle measures 4922mm in length, 2004mm in width, and 1745mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2975mm. The front row offers ample space, leaving a 1.5 fist clearance above the head for a 180cm passenger after adjusting the seating. In the rear, there’s two fists worth of legroom and one fist of headroom, so even an adult in the middle seat won't feel cramped. For storage capacity, the trunk has a standard volume of 500L, which can be expanded to 1720L by folding down the rear seats, making it spacious enough to accommodate multiple suitcases or a stroller. Additional storage spaces, such as door pockets and the central armrest box, are sufficient for daily use. The rear also features air conditioning vents and power outlets, enhancing comfort for long journeys.

As for performance, this vehicle is equipped with a 3.0T inline-six turbocharged engine combined with a rear-mounted permanent magnet synchronous motor plug-in hybrid system, delivering a combined output of 360kW (489PS) and a total torque of 700N·m. Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and xDrive all-wheel-drive system, the vehicle can accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in just 4.8 seconds. During practical driving, the electric-only mode enables smooth starts and offers a quick motor response, making it suitable for city commuting. In hybrid mode, pressing the accelerator firmly prompts both the engine and electric motor to deliver power simultaneously, providing ample power reserves for overtaking without waiting for the engine to rev up. Driving modes include Sport, Comfort, and Eco, offering versatile options. In Sport mode, the transmission delays shifting for more aggressive power delivery, while Comfort mode prioritizes smoothness, making it suitable for daily driving.

The handling and chassis performance align with the positioning of a luxury SUV. The combination of a front double-wishbone independent suspension and a rear multi-link independent suspension effectively filters vibrations when dealing with bumpy roads. When passing speed bumps or uneven road sections, the vehicle maintains a stable posture without noticeable bouncing. The steering is highly precise, with minimal play in the steering wheel, and body roll is well controlled when cornering. Paired with wide tires, the grip performance is excellent. The four-wheel-drive system can quickly distribute power to the front and rear wheels on slippery roads or light off-road conditions, enhancing passability. However, due to the vehicle’s heavier weight, high-intensity off-roading is not recommended.

In terms of energy consumption and range, the official pure electric range is 110km, and in real-world urban commutes under mixed road conditions, the pure electric range achievement rate is about 85%, with an electricity consumption of approximately 20kWh/100km. In hybrid mode, the fuel consumption is about 7.5L/100km during long-distance highway driving, making overall energy efficiency better than fuel-powered models in the same class. Braking performance is stable, with a braking distance of approximately 38 meters from 100km/h, and there is no significant thermal decay after multiple consecutive braking actions. Noise control is also well-executed, effectively isolating wind and tire noise during high-speed driving, allowing in-car conversations to remain unaffected.

In summary, the core advantages of the 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e M Sport lie in its powerful performance, rich configuration, and ample space. Its plug-in hybrid system balances fuel economy with the convenience of pure-electric commuting. Compared to the Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 e in the same class, it offers stronger overall performance and a longer pure electric range. Compared to the Audi Q7 e-tron, it features more luxurious configurations and enjoys higher brand recognition. This vehicle is suitable for consumers who value luxurious quality and performance while also having family travel needs. Whether for urban commuting or long-distance travel, it delivers a comfortable and efficient driving experience.

Overall, the 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e M Sport is a mid-to-large luxury SUV that balances performance, luxury, and efficiency. It not only meets consumers' pursuit of brand prestige but also reduces daily usage costs through its plug-in hybrid system. It is a competitive choice in the luxury mid-to-large SUV market.