2021 BMW X5 45e Review: Always Excellent But Skip The PHEV

• Pricing for the X5 in Canada starts at $77,500, $59,400 in the US.

• The 45e version features plug-in hybrid technology.

• The X5 remains the best BMW but the PHEV version is not really worth considering.

Had you asked me in the early 2000s what my favorite BMW was, I would have answered that I’m not sure. I would have specified that my least favorite Bimmer would land between the two SUVs. Fast-forward to the last three years or so and the story changes completely. The BMW X5, especially the current 4th generation, is nothing short of fantastic.

The explanation for this about-face is directly linked to BMW’s change of focus. So popular and lucrative have these SUVS become that they are deserving of the most attention. The resulting G05 X5 is the finest, most refined, and satisfying midsize luxury SUV on the market. This statement comes only with a warning: Ideally, you should skip the PHEV 45e.

Designed with purpose

The 2021 BMW X5 is positively handsome. From every angle, the SUV’s strong and distinct lines are purposeful and entirely premium. An X5 is instantly recognizable to a point where it’s become the face of BMW despite what the car company might think or say.

The only downside to my black sapphire tester is that it’s black on black over black with black. Typical buyers like this colour combination but it’s anything but special. It does allow the massive grille to blend into the background but honestly, on the X5, the oversized kidneys suit the SUV well.

The cabin is also perfectly attractive. In every respect, it’s all BMW as well, meaning that fit and finish are beyond reproach. It also refers to the fact that there’s a lot going on visually. The familiar pod-like approach to various controls, namely HVAC and audio, are sufficiently user-friendly, as is BMW’s iDrive 7 user-interface. For the most part, and in time, menus become easy enough to navigate.

The tested unit featured merino leather, from BMW Individual, on the seats with contrasting stitching. The perches are extremely comfortable offering support for every limb and types of backsides. The rear bench is also accommodating and able to handle three adults. The boot is capacious and, as always, the 2-piece hatch is genius as it stops anything from falling out of the trunk.

Hybrid Advantages?

The vast majority of all-new BMW X5 SAVs (Sport Activity Vehicle, remember?) are sold fitted with the TwinPower turbocharged inline-6 cylinder 3.0-litre engine. It might the most affordable powertrain for the X5 but it’s also the smartest. I say this as, although the 45e is endowed with total system-combined 389 horsepower and 443 lb.-ft. of torque (from 335 and 331 respectively for the 40i), it’s no faster to 100km/h, in 5.6 seconds, than the 40i.

The reason to opt for the X5 45e comes down to, and only to, the approximate 45 km (30 miles) of full-electric driving range. With a full charge, the onboard 24kWh battery enables the 800lb-heavier 45e (over the 40i) will truly permit the X5 to cover this distance. Unlike most PHEVs I’ve driven in the past, BMW’s numbers are real-world-like. Now, if your typical commutes exceed this range, you’ll quickly find yourself paying the price. BMW reports that the 45e’s actual combined fuel mileage will be 11.5L/100km which happens to match my numbers. In contrast, the 40i, according to BMW, will return 10.4L/100km thanks in part to its integrated 48V mild-hybrid system.

Still great to drive

Despite these limitations, the boosted straight-6 is wonderfully peppy and responsive. As explained above, there is no noticeable performance advantage to the 45e but even so, the X5 is quick and plenty entertaining. The best aspect related to driving the X5 is its ride quality and control. The standard air suspension smooths out the road’s surface with uncanny ease. Whether comfort or sharp handling reflexes are desired, it delivers on all accounts.

The tested unit was fitted with the M Sport package which includes the M Sport brakes. Like steering, and the drive as a whole, the components and related controls provide confidence in the SUV’s abilities. The 2021 BMW X5 feels good and solid.

Skip the 45e and get options instead

I say it in my video and will repeat it now: I really like the BMW X5. I’d select one ahead of its main competitors including the Porsche Cayenne, Mercedes-Benz GLE, Audi Q8, and any others. I would not, however, get the 45e.

The extra $6,000 should go towards options like the M Sport package or one of the Premium packages. I will say that, if you must get a PHEV SUV in this segment, avoid the Lincoln Aviator at all costs and stick to the X5.

2021 BMW X5 45e

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