The redesigned BMW X5 has been out for well over a year, and now, the plug-in hybrid version is finally arriving. It might be worth the wait, considering the new model will deliver more power and achieve significantly better EV-only range than its predecessor. Furthermore, when the 2021 BMW X5 xDrive45e arrives in U.S. dealerships this July, it won’t be cheap, either.
The big news under the X5 hybrid’s hood is an engine swap. In place of the previous X5 PHEV’s 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine sits a robust 3.0-liter six-cylinder. This enhancement enables the new X5 xDrive45e to deliver a remarkable total of 389 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque between its gas engine and electric assist motor, marking increases of 81 ponies and 111 lb-ft from the old four-cylinder version. Additionally, BMW installs a larger battery, elevating the SUV’s electric-only driving range from an estimated 14 miles to 30 miles, at which point the gas engine engages and the powertrain behaves like a standard gas-electric hybrid. Notably, the top speed in Electric mode has increased from 75 mph to 84 mph. However, pushing that limit may not be the best strategy to extend electric miles. Consequently, with the increased EV-only range and higher operating speed, the X5 should prove more appealing to a broader spectrum of affluent commuters, allowing many to reach their destinations or handle daily errands without using fossil fuel.
When we had the opportunity to drive the new plug-in hybrid X5 last year, we found it to be exceptionally comfortable. It’s also highly practical, as it only gives up a negligible 0.8 cubic feet of cargo space compared to the regular X5. With its rear seats folded, the plug-in loses just 1.1 cubic feet versus the standard model, but that difference is likely to go unnoticed in such a spacious SUV.
2021 BMW X5 xDrive45e Pricing
The starting price for the new plug-in hybrid X5 is approximately $66,395. This represents a significant price premium over the base X5, which starts at $59,895, as well as a few thousand dollars more than the previous X5 xDrive40e PHEV.
Fortunately, the new plug-in X5 comes equipped with a commendable list of standard features, including:
- Leatherette seats with heating in the front
- Panoramic sunroof
- Adaptive LED headlights
- Two 12.3-inch displays
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
A standard safety suite includes essential features such as:
- Blind spot detection
- Lane departure warning
- Daytime pedestrian warning
- Frontal collision warning with city collision mitigation
- Rear collision preparation
- Rear cross-traffic alert
For enhanced long-distance driving comfort, an optional package features active cruise control with a stop-and-go function, an advanced traffic jam assistant, and additional conveniences. There are numerous other packages available too, including:
- Parking assist package
- M Sport package
- Premium package with head-up display and gesture controls
- Executive package with glass controls and Laserlight headlights
