2023 BMW X5 plug-in hybrid SUV

The X5 PHEV only comes in a single trim, the BMW X5 xDrive45e rather than the two trims that it used to come with. The xDrive45e has a standard 3.0-liter TwinPower Turbo inline 6-cylinder engine paired with an integrated electric motor. This configuration is both powerful and fuel-efficient. Some of the features of the trim are a Turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine, Eight-speed automatic transmission, 19-inch wheels, Simulated leather upholstery, Power-adjustable, heated front seats, and much more. The trims have been streamlined as the distinction between the previous two trims, namely, the sDrive40i and xDrive40i were very thin to begin with. Now there is a choice between the xLine exterior and the Motorsport exterior. 

The standardization of the trims coming in previous models, helps the SUV by giving people more streamlined options and a greater amount of choice as BMW provides a lot of customization options and packages for the 2023 X5 xDrive45e. The 19-inch wheels and the Panoramic sunroof gives the exterior a unique appearance and the interiors are similarly bolstered by a leather upholstery and heated front seats. The X5 xDrive45e also receives many packaging options that make it unique and help to personalize the SUV for users. Some of the packages on offer by BMW for the 2023 BMW X5 PHEV are:- 

XLINE features

• Satin Aluminum line exterior trim
• 19" V-Spoke wheels
• Sport Seats

M SPORT features

• Shadowline exterior trim
• 20" M Star-spoke bi-color wheels
• Sport Seats

Driving Assistance Professional package

• Adaptive cruise control 
• Lane keeping system 
• Evasive steering assist 
• Emergency stop assist 

Climate Comfort package

• Four-zone automatic climate control
• Heated front armrests, steering wheel and rear seats

Premium package 

• Remote engine start
• Gesture control for the infotainment system 
• Head-up display

Parking Assistance package

• Automated parking system 
• Parking sensors 
• Surround-view camera system

We Recommend 

We would recommend going for the X5 xDrive45e trim as it is the only option along with the XLine features and Driving Assistance Professional package if a daily driver is your consideration. If a more sport oriented look or something to bring to hiking or trekking trips, and feel is what you’re after then we would recommend going with the M SPORT features package along with the Climate Comfort package as it provides a much more versatile option for your SUV. The hybrid configuration helps the X5 be a much more fuel efficient vehicle making it both a good choice for the city and the highway. You can find an X5 of your own here. 

Release date 

The brand new 2023 BMW X5 PHEV is expected to reach the US markets in late summer or early fall of 2022. 

2023 BMW X5 PHEV SUV Engine and Performance 

Daily commute becomes a breeze with the 6-cylinder 3.0-liter TwinPower Turbo engine, capable of pushing 389hp and 443 lb-ft of torque. The acceleration is substantial as the SUV goes from 0 to 60 in just 5.3 seconds. The power is visible as the SUV has a towing capacity of 7,200 lbs and a payload capacity of 937 lbs. The addition of the hybrid powertrain has made the acceleration on the X5 just what we expected from such a powerful SUV. The X5 PHEV has an 8-speed shiftable automatic transmission, a wheelbase of 117.1 inches, and the AWD configuration is just the cherry on top. All of this combined makes sure that the SUV performs well even in the harshest of conditions and gives you maximum control with the addition of the sport mode. Overall, the handling of the X5 PHEV can come across as soft which is why BMW offers an optional off-road package and different driving modes. 

The 2023 BMW X5 PHEV comes in second among its competitors as the Porsche Cayenne Plug-in Hybrid beats it in acceleration and top speed. However, we must also keep in mind that the BMW X5 PHEV is significantly cheaper than the Porsche Cayenne Plug-in Hybrid. The Volvo XC90 Recharge comes in right behind the two with respectable acceleration and a higher top speed than the X5 PHEV. The Land Rover Range Rover Sport PHEV comes last with a significantly lower 0 to 60 time of 5.9 seconds but it still has a higher top speed than the BMW X5 Plug-in Hybrid. 

2023 BMW X5 PHEV SUV Ride and Handling 

The X5 and by extension the X5 PHEV are both highly regarded for their incredible handling and smooth and comfortable riding experience. The X5 PHEV has a Power tilt and telescopic steering wheel with Electric power steering and has Transmission, cruise, and audio controls on the steering wheel. This makes the SUV much more accessible and easier to handle. It also has a 12-way power adjustable driver seat and front passenger seat along with multi-level heating for a more cozy cabin. It stands on Double Wishbone suspension on the front and Multi-Link suspension in the rear making it incredibly stable. Bumps on the road can still be felt, however, and the engine noise is minimal when cruising on the highway. Overall, the 2023 BMW X5 PHEV has a smooth ride and decent handling. It has all the necessary features for an incredible driving experience as well and the quick acceleration makes this heavy SUV more agile on the road than you’d think.

2023 BMW X5 PHEV SUV Braking performance

With 4-Wheel Disc brakes and 4-wheel ABS brakes included into them, the X5 PHEV has standard brakes in the segment. We do not have data on the size of the brake calipers incorporated in the X5 Phev but the brakes feel quick and have Front and rear ventilated disc brakes, Emergency braking preparation, and Emergency braking assist. These factors play a big role in the braking power of the 2023 BMW X5 PHEV. Overall, the X5 PHEV’s brakes are reasonably suitable and responsive for daily driving which makes sense as it is not a performance oriented SUV. The addition of Brake drying is a nice touch as well as it helps with wet road conditions and heavy rain in general and keeps the brakes functioning smoothly. 

As we have no data on the brake rotors of the BMW X5 Plug-in Hybrid, we cannot compare it to its competitors. However, being the heaviest SUV among its competitors, it might struggle a bit in terms of braking as fast as the lighter SUVs like the XC90 Recharge or the Cayenne Plug-In Hybrid. The Range Rover Sport PHEV has the biggest brake rotors among the competition followed by the Cayenne Hybrid. The Range Rover Sport is on the heavier side and has significantly bigger brake rotors to help it consolidate a quicker braking action. The handling of the X5 PHEV could be significantly improved by using better brakes to make it more agile and responsive.

The Plug-in Hybrid space is dominated and characterized by vehicles with high fuel efficiency. The X5 PHEV is both powerful and fuel efficient. It has a combined tank capacity of 18.2 gallons and can provide a combined MPG estimate of 20 mpg and a combined MPGe estimate of 50. This puts the X5 plug-in hybrid firmly in the average category when it comes to fuel efficiency. We would have expected better fuel efficiency from a Plug-In Hybrid as that is their whole gimmick. The hybrid configuration helps out the X5 PHEV only a little when it comes to fuel efficiency except by adding more electronic charging accessibility. The regular X5 has an incredibly efficient engine and averages an mpg estimate of around 23 mpg. 

When compared to its competitors, the X5 plug-in Hybrid gets the shorter end of the stick in terms of MPG and range. However, it has a decent MPGe combined figure and the best battery range among its competitors. The XC90 Recharge takes the lead in terms of fuel economy by a wide margin as it has the best MPG and MPGe combined figures, leading to the best range in this segment. The Cayenne PHEV second place with a bigger than average gas tank and range. The Range Rover Sport PHEV has the worst fuel efficiency among its competitors but to compensate it has a massive 24.1 gallon fuel tank. 

The interior of the X5 has always been known as one of its strongest suits and its no different with the X5 PHEV. The cabin has high-quality materials everywhere, plenty of charging points for devices and many luxury features. It has premium leather upholstery on the seats, 12-way power driver seat which are height adjustable with multi level heating and same goes for the front passenger. Furthermore, it has a power-adjustable steering column, ambient lighting, heated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and dual-zone automatic climate control. The dashboard is a premium leather dashboard that refines the look on the interiors exponentially. The interiors can be upgraded but do get pricier and the cost can add up really quickly. 

The 2023 BMW X5 Plug-in Hybrid has best in class cargo capacity and an above average spacious cabin. The Porsche Cayenne Plug-in Hybrid does not have data available on its interior space so we will not be comparing it with others. Furthermore, due to its design, it has the lowest cargo capacity among its competitors. The Volvo XC90 Recharge has the best front row legroom and the Range Rover Sport PHEV has the best shoulder space and rear headroom. Overall, due to the higher cargo capacity and the above average headroom and shoulder space, we will put the BMW X5 Plug-in Hybrid in the number one position.

Some of the standout interior features of the 2023 BMW X5 Plug-in Hybrid are:- 

• premium leather upholstery
• Power-adjustable steering column
• Ambient lighting
• Heated front seats
• Panoramic sunroof
• Dual-zone automatic climate control

2023 BMW X5 PHEV SUV Infotainment system

BMW has an easy to use UI called the iDrive software for its Twin 12.3-inch displays present in the X5 plug-in Hybrid. They are easy to use and intuitive for the most part and drivers also have the option to control the infotainment system via a center mounted rotary knob. The digital gauge display has a stunning design and gives the dashboard a nice contrast with its bright color. It supports Auxiliary audio input and USB with external media control as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Multimedia consumption is made better with the HiFi Sound System with a 205-watt digital amplifier and 10 speakers.

Some of the standout features of the BMW X5 PHEV’s infotainment system include:- 

• 12.3-inch displays
• BMW ConnectedDrive Services
• SiriusXM with 360L + 1 year Subscription
• HiFi Sound System with 205-watt digital amplifier and 10 speakers
• Outside-temperature display
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility

The exterior of the X5 PHEV is attractive and commanding with its Satin Aluminum exterior, Chrome exhaust tips, 19" V-spoke wheels, and the signature BMW front grille. The addition of chrome accents throughout the exterior gives a subtle yet premium feel to the SUV. The addition of Power-folding, heated side mirrors, a Roof spoiler with center brake light, and Satin Aluminum roof rails give the SUV a rugged yet refined aesthetic. It differentiates itself from the competition by its sloping roofline and sleek sides. The exterior LED headlamps perfectly complement the front fascia with on point accents. The Panoramic moonroof with a fully automatic 2-piece glass panel gives the SUV a dynamic contrast that is subtle but refreshing and visually appealing to the eyes. The eye-catching exterior of the X5 PHEV is what sets it apart from the rest of the competition. 

With an above average length and wheelbase, the BMW X5 Plug-in Hybrid has a low and hunkered down stance. The Volvo XC90 Recharge has class leading ground clearance and its the lightest SUV among its competitors. The Porsche Cayenne Plug-in Hybrid and Land Rover Range Rover Sport PHEV are both average and have a similar ground clearance as the BMW X5 Plug-in Hybrid. Overall, we would consider the BMW X5 Plug-in Hybrid to have average exterior proportions but an excellent wheelbase that makes it much better while handling even in adverse conditions.

Some of the standout exterior features of the 2023 BMW X5 Plug-in Hybrid are:- 

• 19/20/21 inch wheel options
• Satin Aluminum body and roof rails 
• Panoramic moonroof
• Chrome exhaust tips
• Non-Metallic paint
• LED Headlights

BMW has a reputation for making safe vehicles with as many safety measures as possible and the X5 PHEV is no exception. It has an Anti-lock Braking System, 3-point safety belts and head restraints at all seating positions, an Anti-theft alarm system, and much more. Safety features like Blind spot and lane departure warning systems, Pre and post collision safety systems, Stability and traction control, Emergency braking assist, Daytime running adaptive headlights, and Rear door child safety locks also make an appearance. Some extra safety features also make the SUV more appealing like Rollover sensor that triggers airbags and safety-belt pretensioners in the event of a rollover, BMW Assist eCall, Active Driving Assistant, and Park Distance Control. Overall, the X5 PHEV is an extremely secure SUV with every modern safety measure included to ensure your and your passengers’ safety.

Some of the standout safety features in the 2023 BMW X5 PHEV include:- 

• BMW Assist eCall
• Frontal Collision Warning
• Active Blind Spot Detection
• Lane Departure Warning
• Stability and traction control
• Rollover sensors 

2023 BMW X5 PHEV SUV VS 2022 Porsche Cayenne Plug-in Hybrid

BMW and Porsche have had a rivalry for decades, although not as intense as the Mercedes Benz and BMW rivalry. This can be seen in the X5 Plug-in Hybrid and the Porsche Cayenne Plug-in Hybrid as well. Where the Cayenne has quicker acceleration, a higher top speed, a lighter body and higher driving range, the X5 PHEV has a better MPG and MPGe estimate, a greater cargo capacity and a longer wheelbase. Both of these SUVs only have slight edges against each other through and both have an identical ground clearance. 

2023 BMW X5 PHEV SUV VS 2022 Volvo XC90 Recharge

The XC90 has been around since 2002 and its Plug-in Hybrid variant takes advantage of all its strong suits and adds much more power and fuel efficiency. The 2023 BMW X5 PHEV has better acceleration, a higher displacement engine, better interior space and cargo capacity. Whereas the XC90 Recharge has more horsepower output, a higher top speed, a lighter body, better fuel efficiency and range, a higher ground clearance and longer wheelbase. We must also keep in mind that the 2023 BMW X5 PHEV is a lot cheaper than the base trim of the Volvo XC90 Recharge. 

2023 BMW X5 PHEV SUV VS 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Sport PHEV

The Land Rover Range Rover Sport PHEV is the costliest SUV among the competition and the 2023 BMW X5 PHEV has a price difference of $15,000 and less. BMW X5 PHEV has quicker acceleration, a better MPG and MPGe estimate, better interior space and cargo capacity, a longer wheelbase, and a lower stance. Whereas, the Land Rover Range Rover Sport PHEV has more horsepower, a higher top speed, a lighter body, and a massive fuel tank which results in a higher range. The BMW X5 PHEV is clearly the better SUV among the two due to more power, a comfier interior, and all around better design. 

Keeping in mind that the 2023 BMW X5 PHEV competes against way pricier offerings by Volvo, Land Rover, and Porsche, we would highly recommend the 2023 iteration of the X5 Plug-in Hybrid. It punches above its weight in almost every category. It has inferior fuel efficiency, but it makes up for that with the quickest acceleration among its competition, class leading interior space and cargo capacity, and an iconic look. Its shortcomings, although there are only a few, can be looked past if you're considering a daily driver or a dependable hauling and towing SUV even though it's not designed to do so. For the price difference, it's an excellent choice that exudes class, precision, and elegance. It beats its competition with unmatched power and functionality, along with cargo space. However, it does have a few shortcomings like sub-par fuel efficiency and low top speeds. It pulls its weight as the ultimate all-rounder with a boatload of upgrade options and trims in the X5 lineup.