The 2020 BMW X5 lasts around 200,000 miles, with some battery and brake issues reported. At $41,350 to $74,175, it’s expensive, but worth the money if you’re in the market for a fun-to-drive midsize luxury SUV.
Is the 2020 BMW X5 a Good Used SUV?
- Overall Rating 8/10 – 2020 is a good year for the BMW X5 since it offers a fun driving experience paired with an upscale cabin. Owner reviews praise the advanced technology, responsive steering, along with the very quiet cabin.
- Interior, Comfort & Cargo 9/10 – Interior materials are very luxurious for a midsize SUV, the seats are comfortable on long drives, cargo space is also fantastic.
- Reliability 8/10 – There are no widespread problems found on the 2020 BMW X5, although the maintenance costs do go up as they age. Models from 2011–2013 have some engine issues, while 2014–2022 are more reliable.
- Performance 9/10 – The standard six-cylinder is reasonably strong, while the V8 offers great performance for a midsize SUV.
- Safety 8/10 – The 2020 X5 is safe, earning 4 out of 5 stars in government crash tests. It comes standard with lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. Optional upgrades include lane keep assist along with adaptive cruise control.
- Gas Mileage 7/10 – Fuel economy is okay at up to 23 MPG, offering 503 miles of range from the 21.9 gallon tank. Gas costs are $30 cheaper than average at $275 per month.
- Value 8/10 – The 2020 BMW X5 is similar in price to some other luxury SUVs, while offering strong performance and average depreciation rates, giving it a good value score.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the BMW X5?
- Consumer Reports says the 2020 BMW X5 is among the best SUVs they’ve ever driven and a well-rounded vehicle, which earns high owner satisfaction scores.
- Edmunds rates the BMW X5 at 4.2/5, enjoying the luxurious and comfortable cabin, but doesn’t like the small mirrors, which give some large blind spots.
- Kelley Blue Book users give the X5 a 4.4/5, praising the great mix of performance and practicality, but owners don’t like the limited legroom in the third row.
What Common Problems Does the 2020 BMW X5 Have?
Common problems found on the 2020 BMW X5 include dead batteries, worn-out brakes, along with some noises from the wheels. Overall, these problems are similar to other midsize luxury SUVs on the market, but the repair costs are higher than average due to the cost of parts.
Dead batteries are the most widespread complaint from 2020 X5 owners, showing up within the first 5,000 miles. There are a lot of electrical accessories in the X5, and some of them wind up draining the battery while the engine is off. Diagnosing the source of the parasitic draw costs around $50, while repairs range from $75 to $350.
Worn-out brakes have also been mentioned by BMW X5 owners at around 15,000 miles. The brake pads tend to wear out quicker than on other SUVs since they have high-performance pads. Replacing the brake pads costs around $300, while new rotors cost nearly $900 if they have been damaged.
Noises from the wheels are another problem that shows up on some 2020 BMW X5 models at roughly 20,000 miles. The wheel bearings wear out, and start to make noise. Replacing the wheel bearings costs around $400 per wheel, since it’s a labor-intensive process.
There are nine recalls on the 2020 BMW X5, which is worse than some other luxury SUVs from the same year. The most serious recall covers the ABS system, which can lead to a loss of brake assist. BMW will replace the integrated brake system on affected models for free. Other recalls include headlights, and rearview camera issues, which BMW will also fix for free.
How Long Will the 2020 BMW X5 Last?
A well-maintained 2020 BMW X5 can last around 200,000 miles, which is shorter than some other midsize luxury SUVs like the Lexus GX. Regular annual maintenance costs are more expensive than average, according to data provided by Repair Pal, at $1,116 per year.
As a used 2020 BMW X5 reaches around 100,000 miles, and depending on the vehicle history report, owners should be prepared to replace the mass airflow sensor for $550, battery cable costing $625, along with the steering knuckle assembly, which costs $900.
How Is the Technology?
The standard entertainment technology is excellent, and includes a large 12.3-inch central display with Apple CarPlay. Optional upgrades include a powerful 16-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, or a more powerful Bowers & Wilkins sound system.
Standard safety technology is great, and includes:
- Front and rear parking sensors
- Rear cross traffic alert
- Adaptive headlights
- Forward collision warning
- Pedestrian detection
- Blind spot monitoring
- Automatic high-beam headlights
- Rearview camera
- Automatic emergency braking
- Lane departure warning
Optional upgrades are available, such as:
- Head-up display
- Night vision camera
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane keep assist
- Surround-view parking camera system
- Traffic jam assist
- Parallel park assist
Is the 2020 BMW X5 a Good Value?
Yes, the 2020 BMW X5 is a good value if you’re looking for a luxury midsize SUV which offers excellent performance and advanced technology. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $41,350 to $74,175, making it more than an Acura MDX or Cadillac XT6. When new, the price range was $58,900 to $82,150. Depreciation is similar to other SUVs, losing about 8% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the BMW X5?
There are four main models of the BMW X5 offered, from the entry-level sDrive40i through to the more powerful M50i. There’s also the X5M, which offers a very strong engine and reworked suspension, and is covered in another review. The BMW X5 comes standard with rear-wheel drive, while all-wheel drive is optional.
sDrive40i/xDrive40i are the entry-level models with:
- Adaptive LED headlights
- Panoramic sunroof
- Adaptive suspension dampers
- Power-adjustable and heated front seats
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- 3-inch central display
- Apple CarPlay compatibility
- 10-speaker sound system
- Lane departure warning
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Forward collision mitigation
- Adaptive cruise control
- Synthetic leather upholstery
- 19-inch alloy wheels
- Pre-collision warning and braking system with pedestrian detection
xDrive50i is a step up, adding:
- All features from the sDrive40i/xDrive40i
- Upgraded front seats
- 16-speaker Harman Kardon audio system
- Four-zone climate control
- Wi-Fi hotspot
- Wireless device charging
- Genuine leather upholstery
M50i is the flagship model, which has:
- All features from the xDrive50i
- 20-inch wheels
- Bigger brakes
- Sportier suspension
- Differential tuning
- Restyled bumpers
- Stiffer M Sport suspension
- M Sport brakes
- Upgraded steering wheel and exhaust
- Upgraded rear differential
Optional Packages/Features (available for all trims):
- Driving Assistance Professional package (including enhanced driver assist features like stop-and-go cruise control and automatic lane changing)
- Executive package (including remote engine start, heated and cooled cup holders, and adaptive LED headlights with laser light)
- Heated steering wheel
- Ventilated and massaging seats
- Semi-automated low-speed driving assistance
- Parking assistance
- Night-vision system
- Bowers & Wilkins infotainment system
- Rear-seat entertainment system
What Engines Come In the BMW X5?
- The base model X5 sDrive40i and xDrive40i are powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine. This powertrain generates 335 horsepower and 330 lb.-ft of torque, providing a robust and responsive driving experience. It’s paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission that delivers smooth, quick shifts. According to BMW, this model can accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 5.3 seconds for the sDrive40i and 5.2 seconds for the xDrive40i, and it achieves a combined fuel economy of around 23 MPG.
- The X5 xDrive50i boasts a more potent 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, kicking out an impressive 456 horsepower and 479 lb.-ft of torque. This engine is also mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission, facilitating refined performance. The xDrive50i can sprint from 0-60 mph in a mere 4.6 seconds, combining sports-car-level acceleration with the versatility of an SUV, although this extra performance lowers the combined fuel economy to around 17 MPG.
- At the pinnacle of the performance spectrum, the high-performance X5 M50i houses a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine but is tuned to deliver a breathtaking 523 horsepower and 553 lb.-ft of torque. Coupled with the 8-speed automatic transmission, this powerhouse achieves a 0-60 mph time of just 4.1 seconds. However, the trade-off for this remarkable performance is a combined fuel economy of about 16 MPG, reflecting its high-performance nature.
What Colors Does the BMW X5 Come In?
How Comfortable Is the BMW X5?
The 2020 BMW X5 epitomizes comfort, redefining luxury in the SUV segment with its sophisticated design and passenger-focused amenities. The vehicle’s interior is a harmonious blend of high-end materials, including plush leather upholstery, soft-touch surfaces, and intricate wood or metal inlays, all of which contribute to a superior tactile experience. The seats, both front and rear, are designed with an emphasis on ergonomics and comfort, providing ample support and adjustability, which provides a pleasurable ride even on longer journeys. The front seats are particularly commendable, offering optional heating, ventilation, and massage functions that can make any drive feel like a retreat.
Adding to the sense of comfort is the generous legroom and headroom throughout the cabin, accommodating passengers of all sizes. The ride quality is exceptionally smooth, courtesy of the X5’s adaptive suspension system that expertly absorbs road imperfections, maintaining a serene cabin environment. Noise insulation is also top-notch in the X5, with minimal intrusion of wind or road noise, allowing passengers to enjoy conversation or the high-fidelity audio system without distraction.
Furthermore, the climate control system is both efficient and intuitive, maintaining an ideal interior atmosphere regardless of the conditions outside. Ambient lighting, available as an option, adds to the cabin’s tranquil and luxurious ambiance, making night drives particularly enjoyable. The panoramic moonroof, which is standard, accentuates the feeling of spaciousness and provides a more airy, open atmosphere that can make even a packed vehicle feel entirely comfortable. All these elements contribute to the X5’s image as a sanctuary of comfort and luxury, solidifying its status as a top contender in the realm of premium midsize SUVs.
How Much Storage Space Does the BMW X5 Have?
The 2020 BMW X5, a luxury midsize SUV, skillfully combines robust performance with practicality, offering substantial storage capacity to cater to diverse needs. This model presents a generous 33.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, a capacity that expands to an impressive 72.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. This extensive space can comfortably accommodate a range of items, from daily groceries and medium-sized electronics to larger gear such as bicycles, camping equipment, or even a small kayak, ideal for those weekend getaways.
Furthermore, the BMW X5 is designed with utility in mind, featuring underfloor storage in the cargo area which is perfect for stowing away valuable items or keeping your groceries from sliding. In addition to the primary cargo space, it includes various small storage solutions throughout the cabin. The front-seat occupants have access to reasonably sized door pockets, a glovebox, and a central storage bin under the armrest, perfect for personal items like wallets, smartphones, or tablets. Cup holders and seatback pockets add extra convenience for rear passengers, providing a place for water bottles, snacks, or small gadgets. These thoughtful storage spaces demonstrate BMW’s commitment to blending luxury with practicality, guaranteeing a comfortable, clutter-free, and premium driving experience.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
The fourth generation of the BMW X5 was introduced for the 2019 model year with all new features.
2015: Upgraded transmission software to improve fuel efficiency.
2016: New xDrive40e plug-in hybrid model introduced with a more efficient engine.
2017: Wi-Fi Hotspot and wireless smartphone charging pad added to all models.
2018: M Sport package now has all the same features as the Premium package.
2019: Fully redesigned for the fourth generation with better engines, new technology, and a more spacious cabin.
2020: The V8 M50i model has been added to the lineup, offering a sportier driving experience.
2021: xDrive45e plug-in hybrid model introduced, xDrive50i model discontinued, and Android Auto finally added as a standard feature.
How Does the BMW X5 Compare to the Competition?
The 2020 BMW X5 is an excellent midsize luxury SUV since it pairs good performance, practicality, and some of the latest technology features.
The Mercedes GLE is another luxury SUV which can be found in the same price range. Interior materials are more luxurious in the Mercedes GLE, while the BMW X5 offers sportier handling. We recommend the BMW X5 since it’s more fun to drive, but it’s worth testing both to see which you prefer.
The BMW X7 is a larger SUV offered by BMW, which costs about $5,500 more. Passenger room is much better in the BMW X7, while the BMW X5 offers a more fun driving experience. We recommend the BMW X5 for most people, unless you need the extra room in the third row that is found in the BMW X7.
