What truly sets a vehicle apart from its peers in the competitive world of luxury SUVs? Is it design, performance, ruggedness, or comfort it offers? While we ponder that question, let us look at the 2021 BMW X5 xDrive40i, which has these attributes that make it an excellent SUV. As part of BMW's lineup, the X5 xDrive40i is celebrated for its performance and impressive specifications. Under its hood lies a 3.0-liter BMW TwinPower Turbo inline 6-cylinder engine with impressive specs, which helps put the X5 in the top tier of the luxury SUV segment. This review delves into the specifics that set this SUV apart to help you determine if it's good enough for you.
The BMW X5 debuted in 1999 and brought sportiness, comfort, and performance features that weren't mainstream in the luxury SUV segment back then. Over the years, the X5 has evolved significantly, transitioning into a relatively rugged vehicle. The 2021 edition continues to maintain BMWs vision for the X5 - a high-performance SUV that changes with the times. The 2021 X5 xDrive40i, while praised for its performance and luxury features, faced a few criticisms. Many first-timers found its infotainment system complex and not as intuitive as competitors. Also, its standard suspension felt too firm and caused passengers to feel the bumps on uneven roads. The third-row seat option also received criticism because of its limited legroom.
The 2021 model year saw BMW equipping the X5 with a 3.0L TwinPower Turbo inline-six engine. This engine is available in the xDrive40i and sDrive40i trims, producing 335 horsepower and 330lb-ft of torque. It's mated with an eight-speed automatic transmission that enables it to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5.3 seconds. This performance number is on par with, if not superior, to counterparts like the Mercedes-Benz GLE 350. The other X5 variants, like the xDrive50i, draw power from a 4.4-liter V8 engine that makes 456 horsepower and does 0-60mph in 4.6 seconds. The X5 M50i and X5 M take things higher with 523 and 600 horsepower, respectively, and can do 0 to 60 mph in just over 3 seconds. EPA numbers for the X5 xDrive40i are decent; it achieves 21 mpg/city and 26 mpg/highway.
The interior is expertly crafted, and high-quality materials are used on almost all surfaces, save for plastic here and there, but nothing to be worried about. With seating for up to five passengers, the X5 offers ample space. Compared to the Audi Q7, the X5's cabin feels more comfortable, thanks to its ergonomically arranged controls and the straightforward functionality of BMW's iDrive infotainment system. The Harman Kardon surround sound system handles the audio experience and makes drives enjoyable. Additionally, it has a customizable ambient lighting function, which helps you set the color tones for the car's interior. Storage is not compromised either, as the X5 xDrive has ample compartments and a spacious cargo area. The SUV offers an optional third-row seating package, increasing its carrying capacity to seven passengers. Both the third-row and second-row seats are foldable.
The exterior is similar to the previous model years, but that doesn't eliminate the minor changes that have been made. The adaptive LED headlights throw a crisp, focused beam that makes driving at night a lot easier. The X5 has an elegant yet commanding presence as it sits on the standard 19-inch wheels. The soft-close automatic doors are cool to have, as are the active kidney grille vents, which adjust automatically to optimize airflow into the engine compartment. On the X5 xDrive40i's exterior, you'll also find sturdy and well-laid-out roof rails that still look great when you're not using it to carry cargo. Moreover, the adaptive air suspension provides the flexibility to adjust the vehicle's height. In this case, you won't have to worry about ride height and ground clearance.
The 2021 BMW X5 xDrive40i won't dazzle you with its technology features. It has a 12.3-inch infotainment display with features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. For driver assistance, BMW includes a suite of features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, etc. They work harmoniously to enhance safety and make driving a lot easier. The onboard tech is designed for intuitive usage without overwhelming the driver with complicated functions. You'll feel the ease of use compared to more tech-heavy alternatives like the Tesla Model X, which offers similar features in a more complex interface.
If you can find a new 2021 BMW X5 xDrive40i (very unlikely you will find one), it'll cost you about $62,000. Such a figure helps affirm its position as a competitively priced luxury SUV. Used models can vary significantly depending on mileage and condition. They often range from $35,000 to $48,000. Exotic Car Trader has some BMWs in their inventory, and these cars are in excellent condition and are priced well. Given that Exotic Car Trader are the best there is in the industry, they have a streamlined process to help you get started with your purchase.
The 2021 BMW X5 xDrive40i is impressive in all ramifications. So this begs the question - is it worth a spot in your garage? That's for you to answer, but you'll undoubtedly agree that this X5 offers a pleasing driving experience that won't leave you wishing you had gone with another SUV. If you want to switch to the X5 or other luxury and exotic cars, Exotic Car Trader will help you get the ball rolling. You can list your current vehicle for sale or check the outline of cars available on their cars for sale page.
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