BMW X5

The 2025 BMW X5 in India is expected to continue offering powerful and refined inline-six engine options, both featuring 48V mild-hybrid technology:

• 3.0-litre Inline-Six Turbo Petrol (xDrive40i): This engine is expected to produce around 375 bhp of power and 520 Nm of torque.
• 3.0-litre Inline-Six Turbo Diesel (xDrive30d): This engine is expected to produce around 282 bhp of power and 650 Nm of torque.

Both engines are paired with an 8-speed Steptronic automatic transmission and BMW's intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive system as standard. The mild-hybrid system provides a small power boost and improves efficiency and start/stop functionality. 

These powertrains deliver strong acceleration and effortless cruising, making the X5 feel quick and capable in various driving scenarios. The diesel engine offers robust torque for easy overtaking, while the petrol is smoother and more powerful at higher RPMs. Performance is a key highlight of the X5.

Ride and Handling

The 2025 BMW X5 strikes an impressive balance between ride comfort and dynamic handling, a hallmark of BMW SUVs. The standard adaptive suspension provides a comfortable ride, effectively absorbing bumps and uneven surfaces. Optional adaptive M suspension or air suspension further enhances ride quality and allows for adjustment of ride height.

Despite its size, the X5 feels remarkably agile and composed. The steering is precise and well-weighted, offering good feedback and making the SUV feel smaller than it is. Body roll is well-controlled, allowing for confident cornering. The xDrive all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction and stability in various road conditions. The X5 offers a rewarding driving experience, whether cruising on the highway or navigating winding roads, making it one of the most dynamically capable SUVs in its class.

The interior of the 2025 BMW X5 is a testament to BMW's focus on luxury and technology. The cabin is spacious, well-appointed, and designed to provide a premium experience for all occupants. The centerpiece of the dashboard is the BMW Curved Display, which seamlessly integrates the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and the 14.9-inch central touchscreen infotainment system. This creates a modern and immersive digital interface.

Material quality is excellent, with a wide range of premium upholstery options (including leather and Sensafin) and interior trims (wood, aluminum, carbon fiber) available to customize the cabin. Seating is for five occupants, with highly comfortable and supportive seats, often featuring power adjustments, heating, ventilation, and massage functions on higher variants. Rear seat space is generous, providing ample legroom and headroom for adults.

Features like four-zone automatic climate control, ambient lighting, and a panoramic sunroof contribute to the luxurious ambiance. Boot space is a substantial 650 litres, expandable by folding the rear seats.

Infotainment

The infotainment system in the 2025 BMW X5 is powered by the latest iteration of BMW's iDrive operating system (likely iDrive 8.5 or 9), controlled via the 14.9-inch central touchscreen, the iDrive controller on the center console, voice commands, and gesture control. 

The system is highly functional, offering sharp graphics, quick responses, and a wide range of features.

It includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, integrated navigation with augmented reality view (on some variants), and access to BMW ConnectedDrive services. A premium sound system, such as a Harman Kardon or Bowers & Wilkins system, is available on higher trims. 

The BMW Curved Display provides a customizable and visually appealing interface for accessing all vehicle information and infotainment functions. The system is comprehensive but may require some time to fully master due to the depth of its features.

The exterior design of the 2025 BMW X5 is characterized by a muscular and imposing presence, reflecting its status as a luxury SUV. The front features a prominent, albeit not oversized like the X7, BMW kidney grille, flanked by sleek LED headlights with distinctive C-shaped LED daytime running lights. 

The front bumper design is bold, varying slightly between xLine and M Sport trims, with the latter featuring more aggressive styling elements.

From the side, the X5 has a strong, well-proportioned profile with a rising beltline and sculpted surfaces. Large alloy wheels (standard 21-inch on the current model in India) fill the wheel arches, enhancing its sporty stance. 

The rear features L-shaped LED taillights with a three-dimensional design and a split tailgate, a practical feature for loading and unloading. The overall design is a successful evolution of the X5's familiar shape, balancing elegance with a sense of power and capability. Dimensions are approximately 4935 mm in length, 2004 mm in width, and 1765 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2975 mm.

The 2025 BMW X5 is expected to maintain the high safety standards of its predecessor. The current generation X5 has received a 5-star safety rating from Global NCAP and performs well in other international crash tests like those conducted by the NHTSA and IIHS.

Standard safety equipment is comprehensive and includes multiple airbags (likely 6 or more), ABS with EBD, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control, and a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). 

A wide array of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) is available, potentially including features like automated emergency braking, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control.

 Higher variants or optional packages may include more advanced ADAS features such as lane centering assist and potentially Highway Assist for semi-autonomous driving in certain conditions (availability in India TBC). The robust construction and advanced safety systems contribute to a high level of occupant protection.

The 2025 BMW X5 competes in the premium mid-size luxury SUV segment in India. Its main rivals include:

• Mercedes-Benz GLE: Known for its luxurious interior, comfortable ride, and advanced technology.
• Audi Q7: Offers a spacious and luxurious cabin, comfortable ride, and standard quattro AWD.
• Volvo XC90: Stands out with its focus on safety, Scandinavian design, and available plug-in hybrid powertrain.
• Land Rover Defender / Range Rover Velar: Offer a blend of luxury and off-road capability (Defender) or stylish design (Velar).
• Lexus RX: Known for its reliability, comfortable ride, and available hybrid powertrains.

The BMW X5 differentiates itself with its strong performance from both petrol and diesel engines, dynamic handling characteristics, and a technologically advanced interior with the Curved Display. It appeals to buyers who prioritize driving involvement along with luxury and practicality.

The 2025 BMW X5 continues to be a top contender in the mid-size luxury SUV segment in India. It offers a compelling package that combines powerful and refined six-cylinder engine options, standard xDrive all-wheel drive, a luxurious and high-tech interior featuring the impressive BMW Curved Display, and a commendable balance of ride comfort and dynamic handling. Its imposing design and premium features solidify its position as a desirable luxury vehicle.

While the next-generation model is on the horizon globally, the current X5 remains highly competitive with its potent powertrains, advanced technology, and strong safety credentials. For buyers in India seeking a luxury SUV that delivers both exhilarating performance and a comfortable, feature-rich cabin, the 2025 BMW X5 is an excellent choice. Its versatility makes it suitable for family use, long-distance travel, and even some spirited driving, making it a well-rounded luxury SUV.