2025 BMW X5 and X6 Review: True Luxury Performance

The 2025 BMW X5 and X6 redefine the luxury SUV category with their blend of elegance, technology, and thrilling performance. Whether you're seeking practicality or a sportier aesthetic, the X5 and X6 offer something for every discerning buyer. Both models showcase BMW's relentless commitment to innovation and craftsmanship, making them standout contenders in the competitive luxury midsize SUV market. 

What’s New for 2025? 

For 2025, the BMW X5 and X6 build upon their refreshed 2024 models with updates that enhance both the driving experience and comfort. A notable addition for this year is the Lane-Change Assist feature, now integrated into BMW's hands-free Highway Assist system. The X5 also gets an exclusive Silver Anniversary Edition packed with off-road enhancements for a more adventurous edge. 

Key Features: X5 vs. X6 

While both models share a mechanical foundation, they cater to different preferences. 

• BMW X5 

 The X5 is a midsize luxury SUV with a traditional design that prioritizes practicality. It boasts ample cargo space, seating for five, and an optional plug-in hybrid powertrain for eco-conscious drivers. 

• BMW X6 

 The X6, on the other hand, takes a bold "crossover coupe" approach with its sloping roofline. This design sacrifices some headroom and cargo space but offers a sportier, more unique aesthetic. 

Both models provide a luxurious driving experience with opulent interiors, advanced technology, and powerful engine options. 

Interior and Technology 

Step inside the 2025 X5 or X6, and you’ll find yourself immersed in luxury and high-tech sophistication. Both models offer a choice of materials ranging from synthetic Sensafin leather to plush Merino leather with unique stitching patterns. Heated front and rear seats, a leather-wrapped dashboard, and even heated cupholders elevate the experience further. 

The star of the cabin is a curved display combining a 14.9-inch infotainment touchscreen with a 12.3-inch digital driver display. Controlled via BMW's iDrive 8 system, this setup offers unparalleled customization, from adjusting performance settings to tweaking navigation and entertainment preferences. 

Additional features include augmented reality navigation, wireless charging, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and more. For audiophiles, a 20-speaker Bowers & Wilkins sound system delivers stellar in-car audio. 

Performance Options 

Both the X5 and X6 offer a range of powertrain options that cater to different needs—whether you prefer efficiency, balanced power, or blistering speed. 

• X5 and X6 xDrive40i 

 Turbocharged 3.0L inline-six engine with mild-hybrid technology 

• 375 horsepower / 398 lb-ft torque 

• 0–60 mph in 5.2 seconds 

• Fuel Economy (X5): 23/27/25 mpg (city/highway/combined) 

• Fuel Economy (X6): 23/26/24 mpg (city/highway/combined) 

• X5 xDrive50e Plug-in Hybrid (Exclusive to X5) 

 Turbocharged inline-six with electric motor and lithium battery 

• 483 horsepower / 516 lb-ft torque 

• 0–60 mph in 4.6 seconds 

• Electric Range: 40 miles 

• Fuel Economy: 58 MPGe 

• M60i xDrive (Available for X5 and X6) 

 Turbocharged 4.4L V8 engine with mild-hybrid technology 

• 523 horsepower / 553 lb-ft torque 

• 0–60 mph in 4.2 seconds 

• Fuel Economy (X5): 17/22/19 mpg 

• Fuel Economy (X6): 17/22/19 mpg 

• M Competition (X5 and X6) 

 Twin-turbo V8 with 617 horsepower for maximum performance 

• 617 horsepower / 553 lb-ft torque 

• 0–60 mph in a jaw-dropping 3.7 seconds 

• Fuel Economy (X5 and X6): 13/18/15 mpg 

The plug-in hybrid variant makes the X5 particularly appealing to drivers seeking sustainability without compromising performance, while the X6’s range-topping models cater to adrenaline enthusiasts. 

Driving Experience 

Both the X5 and X6 deliver a dynamic driving experience, balancing comfort and sportiness seamlessly. Around town or on the highway, the ride is smooth, quiet, and refined. With Sport mode enabled, the suspension stiffens, steering becomes sharper, and the engine roars to life, turning these SUVs into thrilling driving machines. 

Buyers of the M60i or M Competition trims benefit from blistering acceleration and responsive handling that rivals high-performance sedans. Even with this power, the vehicles remain manageable for daily commutes. 

The X5 plug-in hybrid impresses with its seamless transition between electric and gasoline power, offering a versatile driving experience for all scenarios. 

Practicality and Space 

Despite their luxury status, the X5 and X6 maintain plenty of practicality. The X5 leads in cargo space, offering 33.9 cubic feet behind the second row, while the X6 sacrifices some storage for style with 27.4 cubic feet. Both models are equipped with power tailgates, and the X5 adds a split tailgate for added convenience. 

Rear passenger space is ample in both models, though taller passengers may find limited headroom in the X6 due to its coupe-like roofline. 

Safety and Driver Assistance 

BMW equips both SUVs with a comprehensive suite of safety and driver-assistance features to protect occupants and aid drivers. 

Standard features include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane departure warning. Optional upgrades such as BMW's Driving Assistance Professional Package add advanced functionality like Highway Assist, which offers hands-free driving under certain conditions. 

The X5 has earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick designation, while the X6 also received high marks for crashworthiness. 

Which One to Choose? 

• Choose the X5 if: You prioritize practicality, cargo space, and an available plug-in hybrid option. 

• Choose the X6 if: You favor bold styling and sportier dynamics over a bit of rear headroom and cargo capacity. 

Pricing 

The X5 starts at $66,875 for the base sDrive40i trim, while the X6 begins at $75,675 for the xDrive40i. Higher trims and customized options can easily push prices well into the six-figure range. 

Should You Buy One? 

The 2025 BMW X5 and X6 deliver undeniable luxury and performance that few rivals can match. Whether you want eco-conscious efficiency or supercharged thrills, these SUVs have something for everyone. With cutting-edge technology, opulent interiors, and powerhouse engines, they represent the pinnacle of what BMW has to offer in the luxury midsize SUV market. 

Visit your local BMW dealer to experience the X5 or X6 for yourself—or schedule a test drive to see which model fits your lifestyle best.