Interested in the new 2017 BMW X5? This luxury midsize SUV has received several improvements for the new model year. The entry-level 35i trim offers a solid slate of base features, but the other trims, including the 35d, 40e, and 50i, are packed with more bells and whistles than most competing SUVs. Simply put, there’s a BMW X5 that’s perfect for any driver. In the new edition of the X5, wireless phone charging and a mobile hot spot are available in all models. The other notable difference is that the xLine trim package is now standard for all 2017 models. Read on to learn more about the different options and features for the all-new X5.
Interior Features
The BMW X5 offers tons of interior features. The top of the line 50i offers leather seating which is adjustable in 20 ways. Even the 35i offers 14-way adjustable seating, giving the X5 some of the most comfortable seating of any SUV on the market. The 10.2 inch infotainment system slides out of the dashboard and has multiple control options including a dial, and touchpad, buttons and voice controls. New this year, all models feature touchscreen capability and have been upgraded to version 5.0 of the iDrive navigation system. Also, the X5’s infotainment screen is the largest in its class. There are optional rear entertainment screens available as well. The standard stereo system in the 35i offers nine speakers, Bluetooth, USB jack, in-dash CD player, MP3 player, and CD MP3 playback. The 50i features premium Harman-Kardon speakers, SiriusXM radio, and a total of 14 600 watt speakers. A panoramic moon roof is also standard in all trims, including the 35i, and includes a wind deflector, sliding sunshade, tilt/slide, and one touch open and close functions. The 50i trim offers updates in the temperature control department, with dual rear A/C zones.
Highlights:
- Comfortable seating with third row
- Infotainment and stereo system
- 50i offers climate control
Performance
There are five engine options available in the 2017 BMW X5. The X5 M features a 567 horse power V8. It will take you from zero to 60 in four seconds, and offers 553 pounds feet of torque. There’s also a diesel option which will get you 31 miles per gallon, and will still go zero to 60 in 6.5 seconds. The 40e is the electric plug-in hybrid option and will do the same, and even the entry level X5 sDrive35i will get there in less than seven. The 40e trim’s electric motor charges for three hours, and will go 14 miles on all electric. All five options utilize an eight speed automatic transmission. The handling on this SUV is more like the handling on most sports cars. There are several modes of steering, and each fits a different style of driving. In the comfort and eco modes, there is very little feedback, and the ride is quite smooth. In the sportier modes, the driver connects more with the car. The options really do provide a driving experience for everyone. The optional Dynamic Damper control will automatically adjust the suspension based on road conditions, giving even more sharp precision control. The 35i is the only trim which comes with rear wheel drive, the 35d, 40e and 50i all feature four wheel drive. The 40e (hybrid) also offers a self-stabilizing suspension with electric control.
Highlights:
- Five engine options
- The 40e’s motor goes 14 miles on all-electric energy
- 4wd available
Safety Features
The entry level 35i, and all other trims, feature dual front airbags, front side airbags, front and rear side curtain airbags, and even a side-curtain airbag rollover sensor. All trims including the 35i offer child seat anchors and a LATCH system. For additional safety and comfort, the 35i also offers electronic stability control and a traction control system. The 40e hybrid trim also offers a pedestrian alert system and hill descent control. The 50i features an in-dash rearview camera.
Highlights:
- Numerous airbags
- Pedestrian alert system
- Hill descent control
Conclusion
Although all trims provide a top-tier vehicle, the X5’s available 35i, 35d, 40e and 50i trims all offer slightly different options for a truly customizable driving experience.