BMW G05 X5 buying guide: engines, plug-in hybrid and what to check
The G05 X5 is a modern, luxurious and capable SUV. This buying guide covers the diesel, petrol, plug-in hybrid and V8 versions, options worth having, common points to check and buying tips.
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The G05 X5 is the fourth generation of BMW's large SUV, launched in 2018. It brought a more luxurious interior, advanced driver assistance, optional air suspension and a wide choice of engines, including an efficient plug-in hybrid with a useful electric range.
As a used car, it offers modern technology and comfort at a lower price than new. In this buying guide we explain the G05 X5 engines and versions, options worth having, the points to check and what to look for when buying.
Why the G05 X5 is popular
The G05 X5 offers:
- A spacious, luxurious interior with an optional third row in some markets.
- Advanced technology, including large digital displays and driver assistance.
- Strong, efficient engines.
- Excellent comfort, especially with air suspension.
- Towing capability for heavy trailers.
It is a complete family car that combines comfort, space and performance. Our F15 X5 buying guide explains the previous generation.
Engines and versions
The G05 X5 was offered with several drivetrains:
- xDrive30d and xDrive40d: six-cylinder diesels with the B57. Our article on the BMW B57 diesel explains it.
- xDrive40i: a six-cylinder petrol with the B58.
- xDrive45e: a plug-in hybrid with a six-cylinder petrol engine and an electric motor, offering a useful electric range for daily driving. Our article on BMW plug-in hybrids explains how it works.
- M50d and M50i: M Performance versions with a quad-turbo diesel and a twin-turbo V8.
- X5 M: the full M version.
The X5 was updated in 2023, when new versions such as the M60i and an updated plug-in hybrid arrived. Our article on the BMW X5 M60i explains the updated top model.
The xDrive45e plug-in hybrid
The xDrive45e is a popular choice because it combines a smooth six-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor. With regular charging, many owners drive much of their daily mileage on electricity, which reduces fuel costs.
When buying one, check the battery health, test the charging function and ask how the car was used. Our article on how to charge an electric BMW explains home charging.
G05 X5: points to check
The G05 X5 is generally reliable, but check:
- Air suspension for leaks and even ride height.
- DPF and AdBlue on diesel versions used for short trips. Our articles on the BMW DPF and BMW AdBlue explain them.
- Software updates for infotainment and assistance systems. Our article on BMW Remote Software Upgrade explains them.
- Panoramic roof drains. Our article on BMW water leaks explains how to check them.
- Tyres and brakes, which wear faster on a heavy SUV.
- Wheels for kerb damage, especially on large wheel sizes.
Interior and technology
The G05 X5 introduced BMW Live Cockpit Professional with large digital displays, the newer iDrive generation and many driver assistance systems. The interior quality is high, with comfortable seats, good insulation and plenty of storage.
Features such as the illuminated panoramic roof, the glass controls and the premium audio systems make the cabin feel special. Many owners also appreciate the split tailgate, which makes loading easier and gives a useful seat when parked.
Our article on BMW iDrive tips explains how to get the most from the infotainment system, and our article on BMW Apple CarPlay and Android Auto explains smartphone integration.
Options worth having
Popular and useful options include:
- Two-axle air suspension for comfort and level loading.
- Integral Active Steering. Our article on BMW Integral Active Steering explains it.
- Driving Assistant Professional. Our article on BMW Driving Assistant Professional explains it.
- Laserlight headlights.
- Head-Up Display.
- Comfort seats and premium audio.
- Off-road package in some markets.
Well-equipped cars are more comfortable and often hold their value better.
Running costs
Running costs depend strongly on the version. The xDrive30d is economical for a large SUV, the xDrive45e can be very cheap to run if charged regularly, and the V8 models use much more fuel.
All versions have large tyres and brakes, and air suspension parts can be costly when they wear. Insurance varies by engine and market. Our guide to BMW fuel economy explains how to reduce consumption, and our article on BMW extended warranty explains extra cover for complex cars.
Test drive checklist
On the test drive:
- Check for warning messages.
- Test the air suspension in different modes.
- Test xDrive in slow, tight turns.
- Feel for vibration at motorway speeds and under braking.
- Test driver assistance and parking systems. Our article on BMW Parking Assistant explains the parking functions.
- Read the fault memory.
Our complete checklist for buying a used BMW covers other checks.
Is the G05 X5 a good buy?
The G05 X5 is one of the most complete large SUVs on the used market. For long distances and towing, the xDrive30d is an excellent choice. For mostly local driving with home charging, the xDrive45e is very attractive.
Buy a car with full service history and up-to-date software, and test all equipment carefully. Many cars still have warranty or approved used cover, which adds peace of mind.
BMW G05 X5 key facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Launched | 2018 |
| Body | Large SUV, optional third row |
| Diesel | xDrive30d, xDrive40d, M50d |
| Petrol | xDrive40i, M50i |
| Plug-in hybrid | xDrive45e |
| Update | 2023, with new versions such as the M60i |
| Key checks | Air suspension, DPF and AdBlue, software, roof drains |
Frequently asked questions
Is the G05 X5 reliable?
Generally yes, with correct maintenance and up-to-date software.
Which G05 X5 should I buy?
The xDrive30d for long distances and towing, the xDrive45e for mostly local driving with home charging.
Is the xDrive45e a good buy?
Yes, if you can charge it regularly. Check battery health and charging function.
Does the G05 X5 have seven seats?
An optional third row was available in some markets.
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