Used BMW X5 Buying Guide
The BMW X5 essentially created the modern luxury SUV template, pairing premium comfort and space with driving dynamics no big 4x4 had managed before it. On the used market it spans three main generations — the E70 (2007-2013), the F15 (2013-2018) and the G05 (2018 onwards) — and each occupies a distinct price and risk bracket. The newer the generation, the more polished the technology and powertrains; the older, the more important a thorough inspection becomes.
Engines and trims
Diesel power dominates. The xDrive30d, a 3.0-litre straight-six, is the mainstay of every generation and the default recommendation: smooth, muscular and efficient for something this size. The F15 and G05 also offered the M50d, a multi-turbo version of the same six with genuinely rapid performance for those who want it. Petrol versions are rarer in the UK, while the G05 brought the xDrive45e plug-in hybrid, whose usable electric range makes it compelling for buyers with home charging and shorter commutes. All X5s are four-wheel drive with automatic gearboxes.
UK cars are generously specified, typically in SE, xLine or M Sport flavours, with M Sport the most sought-after. Features worth hunting for include Professional Navigation on older cars, a panoramic roof, adaptive or air suspension, and the optional third-row seven-seat configuration, which along with the practical split-folding tailgate makes the X5 a genuinely versatile family car. On F15 and G05 cars, the Technology and Comfort packs add features that help resale.
What to check before buying
Air suspension heads the checklist. Where fitted — including the rear self-levelling set-up on many diesels — confirm the car sits level after standing overnight, rises promptly on start-up and cycles through height settings without a labouring compressor. Repairs are costly, and tired air springs are common on older, higher-mileage examples.
On E70 and other older diesels, be alert for EGR and inlet (swirl flap) related issues, oil leaks and any timing chain noise on start-up — a cold-start listen is essential, even though the six-cylinder diesels are generally less chain-troubled than BMW’s smaller four-cylinders. Confirm any emissions-related recall work has been completed through a dealer. Because every X5 is four-wheel drive, check the xDrive transfer box behaves properly: shuddering or binding at full lock on a car park test can indicate expensive transmission wear, and mismatched tyres across axles are a warning sign in themselves. On a 45e, verify battery charging, electric range and the presence of cables. Whatever the generation, insist on comprehensive service history, test the tailgate, all seat folding (especially row three where fitted) and every electronic convenience feature, and inspect the towing electrics and rear suspension on cars that have hauled caravans or horseboxes.
Running costs
An X5 is a large, heavy, complex SUV and costs reflect that. The 30d is the most economical conventional choice and entirely liveable on long runs; the M50d and petrols demand a bigger fuel budget, and the 45e only makes financial sense if it’s charged regularly. Insurance sits in high groups across the range. Tyres, brakes and air suspension components are priced for a two-tonne-plus vehicle, so a well-documented car from a careful owner is worth paying extra for; an independent BMW specialist will keep routine servicing reasonable.
Verdict
The X5 remains one of the most complete large SUVs money can buy used: spacious, refined, surprisingly good to drive and available with an excellent diesel six. An F15 or G05 xDrive30d with full history and healthy suspension is the smart buy; older E70s can be tempting value but demand a specialist inspection first. Buy on condition and provenance and the X5 rewards with effortless family motoring.
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