Overview

What's New for 2025

The 2025 BMW X5 M is available in a single Competition trim level that sits above the standard BMW X5 models. Although priced well above $100,000, it has a long list of eyebrow-raising standard features that make it a credible value.

X5 M Competition

The X5 M Competition costs $125,795 (including a $995 destination fee) and starts with a core of high-performance equipment, including a 600-horsepower turbo V8, an all-wheel-drive system, adaptive suspension, M Sport differential, and six-piston front-brake calipers. M-specific styling includes a rear diffuser, quad exhaust outlets, a distinctive front fascia, and 21-inch wheels, while the interior offers a panoramic sunroof, 20-way adjustable high-back seats with extended Merino leather, carbon-fiber interior trim, heated front seats, heated armrests, and a heated steering wheel with power-adjustable steering column.

In-car tech uses a 14.9-inch center touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster under a single glass screen and includes navigation, wireless smartphone mirroring, a premium 16-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, and wireless charging. A head-up display, surround-view camera, parking sensors, and automated parking round out some of the driver assist features.

Adding the M Driver package unlocks the engine’s full potential by raising the top speed to 177 mph (from 155 mph) and includes a one-day class at a BMW high-performance driving school.

The X5 M is a strong value compared to the Audi RS Q8, priced at $127,000, and the Porsche Cayenne Turbo at $148,500.

BMW improved the X5 M's twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine for the 2024 model year, and it carries into 2025 unchanged. A 48-volt mild-hybrid system allows the X5 M to use less of its engine power to run the cabin electronics. Fuel economy estimates for the 2025 BMW X5 M Competition can be found below.

The engine makes 617 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque. Behind the wheel, the power of the X5 M seems unfathomable. According to BMW, this 2.75-ton SUV can hustle from zero to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds, but it feels even quicker than that. Linked to the V8 is BMW's eight-speed automatic transmission, which comes with paddle shifters and adjustable levels of sportiness. Naturally, all-wheel drive comes standard.

In the spacious cabin, BMW has gone all out with soft Merino leather, available in several tasteful color schemes. The deep seat bolsters and carbon-fiber trim give the nod to the X5 M's performance potential. It's like you're driving in the SUV version of a top-end luxury sedan with the latest technology and high-quality materials all around you.

Some competitors might offer more rear legroom, but none can match the X5 M for cargo capacity. Folding down the back seat gives you 66 cubic feet of cargo space, so you can pack everything you need for your next adventure. The Audi RS Q8 provides a maximum of 60.7 cubic feet.

Let's talk about the comfort and technology features in the X5 M. Heated and cooled cupholders? Check. Quad-zone climate control? Check. The digital instrument cluster is customizable, and it automatically changes the data displayed based on which driving mode is in use.

The centerpiece of the 2025 BMW X5 M Competition interior is a 14.9-inch curved LED touch display; it has excellent resolution and runs on the automaker's new Infotainment 8 software. BMW keeps the previous generation's Gesture Control feature, letting you perform certain tasks with a simple hand motion, and its voice recognition (a staple in BMW cars for years) works well.

You also get several apps standard in the 2025 X5 M, such as navigation, What's App, Google Maps, Spotify, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and more.

The rival Audi RS Q8's infotainment system features crisp graphics and a dual touchscreen display. The 10.1-inch upper screen controls entertainment such as radio and navigation, while the 8.6-inch lower screen manages climate control and other vehicle functions.The Mercedes-AMG GLE 63's system centers around a 12.3-inch touchscreen, itself a seamless extension of a 12.3-inch digital instrument display, and advanced AI-based voice controls.

The BMW X5 M has not been rated by safety agencies, however the standard BMW X5 scored an overall crash rating of four out of five stars from the National Highway Safety Transportation Administration (NHTSA), and earned the highest rating of Good from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/bmw/x5-4-door-suv/2024) in nearly all categories. The IIHS docked the X5 only for its headlights, which were rated Acceptable or Marginal, depending on the trim.

The X5 M comes with forward-collision warning with pedestrian and cyclist detection and automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. But lane-keeping assist, front cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control are part of the Driving Assistance Professional package.

Among super SUVs, the 2025 BMW X5 M prioritizes speed and sharp handling but is appropriately appointed for the price. The Audi RS Q8 and Mercedes-AMG GLE63 offer not only power but also a cushy ride. Believe it or not, there is another stratosphere above the BMW: It includes the Porsche Cayenne Turbo, which has stunning acceleration and driving dynamics, plus a new E-Hybrid model with all-electric range. And then there’s the Land Rover Range Rover Sport SV, with more than 600 horsepower and a $180,000 price tag.

BMW X5 M vs. Audi RS Q8

BMW X5 M vs. Land Rover Range Rover Sport

BMW X5 M vs. Mercedes-Benz GLE

BMW X5 M vs. Porsche Cayenne