First Impressions

The original BMW X5 was so radically different for the brand that they created their own class for it, as a sport activity vehicle. And now entering its third generation, the 2014 X5 brings more to the table. Through careful engineering the new X5 loses close to 200 pounds.

Despite this, interior cargo room actually grows by a small amount. The exterior is new too, although clearly evolutionary with a new grill, reworked head and taillights and fresh details around the sheet metal. Engine offerings are however, mostly the same.

The xDrive50i grabs power from a twin-turbo V8 rated at 445 horsepower. Dropping down, the xDrive35i has the well-known turbocharged inline 6 good for 300 horsepower. Diesel lovers can opt for the xDrive35d, motivated by a turbo I-6 oil burner rated at 255 horsepower.

For the first time a rear wheel drive sDrive35i will be offered as the lowest priced model. Though still capable in most situations, even if you don’t have snow it’s hard not to recommend all-wheel drive for an X5.

A host of options are available including M performance and full on M variants. Steering and suspension control options and safety features galore including traffic jam assistant which will automatically speed up, slow down, and keep the vehicle in its lane. Starting around $53,000 the 2014 BMW X5 is on sale now.