BMW X5 vs 5 Series Touring - Which should you choose?

The first thing you’ll notice is that one is a Touring, also referred to as an estate, and the other is a SAV (Sports Activity Vehicle) - more commonly referred to as an SUV. SAV is a term exclusively used by BMW to emphasise the special characteristics of their X model lineup.

It may come as a surprise to you, but both the 5 Series Touring and X5 offer similar amounts of practicality. The 5 Series Touring contains 570 litres of boot space, which rises to an incredible 1,700 litres with the rear seats folded. In comparison, the X5 has 650 litres in its standard configuration, increasing to a potential 1,870 litres with the seats down.

All X5 models include xDrive all-wheel drive as standard, while the base 5 Series Touring is rear-wheel drive, meaning you’ll have to pay that little bit extra for xDrive, should you wish. Combined with an 8-speed automatic transmission, which is the only option available on both vehicles, you can expect smooth yet quick gear changes. 

Those who prefer a lower driving position will find the 5 Series Touring a better fit, whilst those who enjoy the feeling of sitting above other traffic, will feel more at home in the X5. This aspect certainly comes down to personal preference. It is worth noting that the X5 has superior off-roading capabilities than the 5 Series Touring.

Naturally, due to the type of car it is, the higher ground clearance and the optional xOffroad Package means that the X5 is the go-to choice for those who find themselves on surfaces other than tarmac, regularly. Optional air suspension and rear-wheel steering capabilities further enhance manoeuvrability and the X5’s off-road ability. If this isn’t something that concerns you, then the 5 Series Touring’s more favourable fuel consumption figures and agility may be tempting.

Both cars are available with petrol, diesel or petrol plug-in hybrid engines. This wide selection gives you plenty of choice when it comes to performance, efficiency and general driving feel. The 5 Series Touring engines range from 2.0-litre 4-cylinder variants to a 3.0-litre 6-cylinder engine, while the X5 is available as a 3.0-litre 6-cylinder, or the range-topping 4.4-litre V8 found in the X5 M Competition.

Whether performance is of concern to you or not, you can be assured that all engine options will provide healthy amounts of power that will allow you to complete all of your daily driving needs with ease. Plug-in hybrid variants offer improved range and enable an all-electric driving mode, but also provide a boost in power and responsiveness, thanks to the addition of an electric motor.

Interior design is exquisite on these two cars. With a big focus on spaciousness, luxury materials, features, comfort, and technology, you can expect a quality interior that ticks all the boxes. A variety of high-end leather options coat the interior, and a wide range of optional extras can transform the experience into something even more special. Customisation potential is truly massive on these two models, where you can optimise areas that matter to you.

A main touch-enabled display is paired with a driver display on both vehicles, however their size and shape do vary between the two cars. The same can be said about the centre console and button controls. The 5 Series Touring is more similar to the 8 Series in this respect, while the X5 more closely resembles the majority of other BMW models in the lineup.

The recently released LCI (facelift) X5 now comes with iDrive Operating System 8 and a new curved display. These changes have yet to be introduced on the 5 Series, which features the still excellent iDrive Operating System 7. To learn more about the differences, check out our iDrive 7 Vs iDrive 8 blog.      

Still undecided as to which is best for you? Why not drop by and explore both cars for yourself. Perhaps a test drive would also help? Contact your local BMW Centre in Bristol, Hungerford, Melksham (near Bath) or Swindon and we’ll make sure to find the best new car for you.

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