The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e impresses with a suite of performance upgrades and enhanced efficiency, making it a compelling choice among plug-in hybrid SUVs. The latest model features an updated mild-hybrid six-cylinder and a V8 engine, along with a significant boost to the X5 xDrive50e’s electric range and power output. This PHEV version includes a powerful new electric motor within its eight-speed automatic transmission and a more energy-dense 19.2-kWh lithium-ion battery. Notably, BMW has doubled the maximum AC charging rate to 7.4 kW, allowing faster charging times.

BMW claims the X5 xDrive50e offers up to 38 miles of all-electric driving before the turbocharged six-cylinder engine activates, achieving around 22 mpg in hybrid mode. However, the regenerative braking and energy recuperation boost efficiency in real-world conditions, allowing it to outperform official estimates. Generating 483 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, this PHEV accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds—a mere 0.4 seconds slower than the V8-powered X5 M60i but at a significantly lower price. 

For those aiming to maximize electric driving, a Level 2 home charging station is recommended, as standard outlets offer only about two miles of range per hour, requiring up to 24 hours for a full recharge. Yet, a full recharge isn't necessary to benefit from the X5’s electric capabilities. In a real-world test from Los Angeles to West L.A., the X5 xDrive50e traveled 26.8 miles on electricity alone, with an efficiency rate of 2.4 miles per kWh, and achieved an overall fuel economy of 33.7 mpg on the round trip.

In a comprehensive evaluation across diverse terrains—city streets, rural roads, freeways, and coastal highways—the X5 xDrive50e traveled 46.5 miles purely on electricity, delivering 2.7 miles per kWh. The route’s downhill stretches likely extended the electric-only range. The electric motor itself generates 194 hp and 331 lb-ft of torque, allowing smooth electric-only operation if driven gently.

With an adaptive damping air suspension, the X5 handles its weight remarkably well, and the 21-inch wheels provide excellent feedback without compromising ride quality. Its excellent visibility and nimble steering make it easy to maneuver in tight spaces, while the robust suspension absorbs road imperfections, maintaining a smooth ride.

On a spirited drive down Mulholland Highway, the X5 xDrive50e M Sport showcased its prowess in Sport mode, delivering rapid acceleration, solid grip, precise steering, and stable handling with minimal body roll. The brakes also performed reliably, handling repeated hard stops without fade, even if the pedal felt slightly firm.

Throughout this spirited drive, the X5 also managed to add six miles of battery charge on the downhill stretches, ultimately covering 95.5 miles and achieving an impressive 38.8 mpg. In short, the 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e offers an outstanding balance of performance, efficiency, and refinement, making it an ideal choice unless the high-powered X5 M is an absolute necessity.

The BMW X5 xDrive50e combines a satisfying driving experience with strong efficiency, making it a standout choice in the midsize luxury SUV category. With seating for five and a spacious interior, the X5 offers 33.1 cubic feet of cargo space that expands to 71.2 cubic feet when you fold down its 40/20/40-split rear seats. However, the split liftgate design, while perfect for sitting and enjoying a scenic view, may make it challenging to reach items deep in the cargo area.

Our test model came packed with options, though genuine leather wasn’t included. Surprisingly, BMW’s standard Sensafin artificial leather felt just as luxurious, offering a premium feel without being genuine. Standard sport seats provide excellent support, and with the Climate Comfort Package, you’ll enjoy 20-way power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation, plus four-zone automatic climate control, a heated steering wheel, heated armrests, and rear seat heating. A massage function is available as an extra.

Rear passengers also benefit from plush seating, and the expansive panoramic sunroof extends over the back, enhancing the interior's open feel while offering a full shade option for privacy. Additionally, side window sunshades help keep the interior cool and are perfect for shielding little ones from sunlight.

While previous X5 models offered an optional third-row seat, this feature has been discontinued. For those seeking seven-passenger capacity, the BMW X7 is the recommended choice.

For 2024, BMW has introduced its Highway Assistant, a hands-free driving aid, to the X5. To enable this feature, you’ll need to go to the safety settings in the infotainment screen and deliberately activate it. Once on, select the Assisted Driving Plus mode via the steering wheel controls. The system will signal its readiness on the digital display or head-up display, and green lights will illuminate on the wheel when it’s ready to steer hands-free.

Highway Assistant shines in specific conditions: it’s especially effective in slow-moving traffic or at high speeds on light-traffic highways. It even handles late afternoon sun, which can confuse similar systems. However, in regions like Los Angeles, with multi-lane traffic and frequent lane changes, the Highway Assistant may act differently than a human driver would, which can sometimes be frustrating. Additionally, during heavy traffic, the system may suddenly apply the brakes briefly, without a clear reason.

On the Pacific Coast Highway, the hands-on adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance were impressive, managing curves smoothly and keeping the X5 centered. However, when the system detected a parked truck on a bend, it responded with brief hard braking. Fortunately, no vehicles were close behind.

Despite occasional braking quirks, BMW’s driver aids operate unobtrusively, blending into the background without drawing attention. Their subtlety encourages continued use rather than prompting drivers to disable them.

In terms of safety ratings, the 2024 X5 received high marks from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), though its headlight ratings fell short of qualifying for an IIHS safety award. Meanwhile, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the X5 an overall four-star rating, just one star shy of the highest possible score.

The 2024 BMW X5 delivers exceptional quality and performance, but its luxury comes with a price tag. Starting at about $65,000 for the rear-wheel-drive (RWD) base model, you'll need to invest even more if you want the added traction of BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. While BMW includes three years or 36,000 miles of complimentary scheduled maintenance and four years of roadside assistance, these benefits don’t fully offset the X5’s premium cost.

However, what truly makes the X5 worth the investment is its hallmark German engineering, refined interior, and the confidence that it’s assembled with meticulous precision at BMW’s Spartanburg, South Carolina, plant. The xDrive50e plug-in hybrid variant also offers an impressive electric-only range, which can help reduce fuel expenses over time.

Unlike some of BMW’s more recent designs, the 2024 X5 retains a classic look that honors the brand’s legacy, and it’s especially appealing in the xDrive50e PHEV model. This SUV keeps a strong connection to BMW’s heritage, making it a fantastic choice for those seeking both luxury and performance.