BMW X5 review

If you’ve considered buying a luxury SUV at any time since the late 1990s, the chances are the BMW X5 has been on your radar. It kicked off the craze for sportier SUVs – cars that sacrificed some of the ruggedness and rock-climbing ability of the off-roaders of the time in favour of better handling, improved comfort and a more luxurious interior.

Since the first X5 came out all those years ago, several challengers have also staked their claim to this territory. First, the Volvo XC90 brought seven seats as standard; then the Range Rover Sport added proper off-road ability to the mix, while latterly the Audi Q7 used clever packaging to combine the versatility of seven seats with a truly classy interior and remarkable comfort. In short, this fourth-generation version of the X5 has its work cut out if it’s to rise to the top of the class again.

But it brings to the fight some notable good qualities: for example, a suitably upmarket interior and the same tight handling that made it such a favourite among buyers before, not ot mention air suspension as standard, promising a smooth and comfortable ride.

Is that enough to make it a luxury SUV you should consider? Read on to find out. And when you’re ready to buy, head over to our New Car Buying section, where we can find you the best deals on whichever model you settle on.