2001 BMW X5 Reviews, Pricing & Specs



























































































































































































































































































Overview
In it second year of production, the 2001 BMW X5 was still getting quizzical looks from BMW purists and professional care reviewers. "Must...
In it second year of production, the 2001 BMW X5 was still getting quizzical looks from BMW purists and professional care reviewers. "Must every carmaker build a sport-ute?" groaned the editor of one automotive magazine. "It's as ridiculous as if every manufacturer were to field a full-size pickup, or an econobox, or an armor-plated luxury sedan. I think the X5 represents the wrong direction for BMW."
But then again, was the 2001 X5 even a class SUV? It had a unitized chassis, not a ladder frame. It had a sophisticated independent suspension, not a live rear axle with leaf springs. It also lacked a low range in its transfer case, "which some SUVs wear as a badge of honor."
The SUV - or is it a car - was built on the successful 5-series sedan chassis, and, as a result, handled beautifully according to owners and reviewers. But the X5 does lack cargo space leaving some to wonder if they'd have been better off just purchasing a 5-series.
What owners say
"Owners of the 2001 BMW X5 generally rave about its luxurious interior, sporty performance, and impressive handling. Many appreciate how well it drives, likening it to a sports car and noting its capability both on and off the road. However, some drivers have expressed concerns about expensive repairs and the complexity of its electronics, which can be frustrating at times."
Pros: very fast heated seats great sound system great gas mileage sapcious Cons: expensive to fix small close together cupholders too many buttons and lights orange dash display cd does not like some burnt cds Overall a really wonderful car to own
January 24, 2013Great attempt by BMW to create their first SUV, or SAV in their language. Flawless performance, least body-roll in its class, great throttle response, superb brakes. Some gremlins do appear in this car, but considering it's built in the US, then it's not that surprising, really.. Be sure that this car lives in the correct climate, or more gremlins could chew your wallet away.
April 20, 2008Best in its class, awesome drive, smooth and car like handling. It is really the ultimate handling machine!
September 18, 2007What owners say
Pros: very fast heated seats great sound system great gas mileage sapcious Cons: expensive to fix small close together cupholders too many buttons and lights orange dash display cd does not like some burnt cds Overall a really wonderful car to own
January 24, 2013Great attempt by BMW to create their first SUV, or SAV in their language. Flawless performance, least body-roll in its class, great throttle response, superb brakes. Some gremlins do appear in this car, but considering it's built in the US, then it's not that surprising, really.. Be sure that this car lives in the correct climate, or more gremlins could chew your wallet away.
April 20, 2008Best in its class, awesome drive, smooth and car like handling. It is really the ultimate handling machine!
September 18, 2007Overall a great car to drive. Very responsive feel regarding handling, braking and maneuvering. Random issues with electronics operating sporadically. The build of the car is solid, high quality parts and feel to the components throughout the vehicle. Could be a little easier on the pocket book with regards to maintenance and repair - but well worth the expense as the driving experience is 2nd to none.
January 5, 2015Good handling, quick, strong and sexy. My Girl loves it. She drives it all the time. She doesn't let me drive anymore. But in driver or in passenger seat, I must say, this car is a real eye catcher. I recommend this SUV to anyone and everyone that likes BMW and wants to own a 4X4!
September 11, 2008I love the power that the 4.4 liter V8 has to offer. The seats are very comfortable. The heated seats are great in the winter. There is plenty of room for the family. It has plenty of cargo room for shopping or vacation.
January 13, 2014Even though it is a SAV on the outside that doesn't mean it has to really act like one. The stiff handling is remarkable especially for its weight. Its gets the job done, whether its picking up friends or giving it all it has on and off the road. It truly is the ultimate driving machine.
August 21, 2008Great off the line and cornering. Very solid and secure feeling while going down the road. Just big enough but not too small so it's the perfect size. Oil changes are very easy for anyone to do. Easy to maintain.
September 6, 2012I love the power of the 4.4 liter V8. These BMW'S handle great and are very reliable. They have plenty of room for the family and plenty of cargo room for shopping or vacation. The heated seats are great during the winter.
January 11, 2014Performance - Acceleration not bad for a 3.0l SUV, the handling is amazing the x drive system does its job and allows this suv to handle better than alot of cars. Guess thats why BMW calls it an SAV. Build Quality - The windows can break if someone or something pushes down on them while the motor is running Appearance - a bit better looking then most suv's fof this size range. Cost of Ownership - (5 speed)around 18 to 19 mpg in town up to 24 on the high way. Fun Factor - this car is a blast to drive. Not like any other SUV i have ever driven.
October 31, 2009Trims & specs
Base MSRP $39,545 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.0L 225 hp I6 | Cargo Capacity 16.1 cu ft |
Combined MPG 16 | Drivetrain AWD |
Base MSRP $50,045 | Seating 5 |
Engine 4.4L 282 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity 16.1 cu ft |
Combined MPG 14 | Drivetrain AWD |






