2021 Ford Expedition vs 2021 BMW X5

BMWs were known for their high-quality craftsmanship, and the 2021 X5 certainly held true to that reputation. As part of BMW's true SUV range, the X5 was instantly recognizable with its characteristic kidney grille and body shape, ensuring it couldn't be mistaken for anything other than a BMW. However, this familiarity also meant the X5 could easily be lost among other BMWs in a parking lot.

The X5 had a set of full adaptive LED headlights, matte aluminum grilles for the standard xLine models, and sporty design elements for the M Sport models. Depending on the trim level, the X5 rode on 19-, 20-, 21-, or 22-inch wheels, adding to its versatile aesthetic.

Inside, the X5's cabin exhibited the typical BMW design, with switches, dials, and displays sourced from the BMW parts bin, creating a uniform interior style seen across the brand’s lineup. Despite an abundance of black plastic, which attracted dust and liquid spots, the interior featured plenty of leather and soft-touch materials, contributing to its upscale feel.

For the 2021 Ford Expedition, the Platinum trim was the pinnacle of luxury. This full-size SUV sported a Magnetic gray paint, 4WD, and a Heavy Duty Trailer Tow Package, among other features. The massive 22-inch machined-face aluminum wheels, intricate chrome grille, and thoughtfully applied brightwork ensured the Expedition had a commanding road presence.

While the cargo space behind the third row in the standard-length Expedition was insufficient during a real-world test, the extended-length MAX version would have been more accommodating. The look of the Expedition, especially in the Platinum trim, exuded luxury and functionality, proving to be a sight for sore eyes after a grueling flight from Maui peppered with surfboards and suitcases.

The 2021 BMW X5 offered a range of powertrain options, starting with the base X5 sDrive40i/xDrive40i featuring a 335-hp 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine. The German automaker also provided a more potent X5 M50i with a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine producing 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque. The ultimate performance model, the X5 M, packed 600 hp, which increased to 617 hp with the Competition Package. New for the year was the X5 xDrive45e plug-in hybrid, achieving 389 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque from its six-cylinder engine paired with a battery, allowing for 30 miles of all-electric range.

In contrast, the 2021 Ford Expedition boasted a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine across all trims, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The engine output was 375 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque in most trims but increased to 400 hp and 480 lb-ft in the Platinum version. The towing capacity ranged from 9,000 to 9,300 pounds, enhanced by the Pro Trailer Backup Assist technology for easier trailer maneuvering.

On the road, the X5's various engines provided a seamless transition between all-electric, hybrid, and gasoline modes, ensuring a smooth ride and impressive throttle responsiveness. However, its steering dynamics at higher speeds and its Lincoln-like driving experience were less engaging than one might expect from a BMW. Charging the hybrid was simple, and the EPA stated a combined range of about 400 miles.

The Expedition's ride was generally comfortable, though the 22-inch wheels on the Platinum trim transmitted a noticeable amount of road shock. The Expedition maintained stability thanks to its independent rear suspension, and models with the FX4 Off-Road Package further enhanced off-road capabilities.

The BMW X5 maximized space usage efficiently. Front cupholders were conveniently placed, though the center console's buttons were difficult to distinguish at night. The seats were comfortable initially, but long drives made the front seats feel hard. The X5's climate controls were easy to manage and the split liftgate, paired with adjustable vehicle height, made loading cargo effortless. Without a third row, cargo space was ample, although the battery in the hybrid slightly reduced it. However, the rear doors didn’t open very wide, which could be inconvenient when moving passengers or cargo.

The Ford Expedition's interior excelled in comfort and utility. Large, wide seats were available for all passengers, including those in the third row, with the Platinum trim's front seats offering a massage function. The independent rear suspension ensured comfort for every seat, while storage space was plentiful. Cargo volume expanded significantly with the third-row seat folded, reaching 57.5 cubic feet and maximized at 104.6 cubic feet with all seats down in the standard model. The Expedition MAX offered even more, with up to 121.5 cubic feet, demonstrating the model's superior cargo capacity over the X5. However, the high liftover height for cargo could be a concern for some users.

BMW equipped the X5 with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. Standard features also included a 10-speaker sound system, voice recognition, Bluetooth, five USB ports, navigation, HD Radio, and satellite radio. Buyers could upgrade with amenities such as a head-up display, massaging seats, a 16-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, and a 20-speaker Bowers & Wilkins system. The BMW iDrive system required an adjustment period but was user-friendly once familiar.

Ford’s Sync 3 infotainment system in the Expedition, though aging, offered a user-friendly interface. However, the 8-inch touchscreen felt small and sometimes slow to respond. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, FordPass Connect services, a navigation system, Amazon Alexa compatibility, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The Platinum trim included a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen premium sound system and wireless smartphone charging. For rear-seat entertainment, an optional dual-screen system was available but not included in the test vehicle.

The 2021 BMW X5 came with a long list of standard safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, front and rear parking sensors, rain-sensing windshield wipers, fatigue and focus alert, lane departure warning, and automatic high beams. However, the lane-keeping technology encountered issues with sunlight and rain, sometimes necessitating manual intervention. The X5 received mostly Good ratings from the IIHS and a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it was subject to seven recalls.

The Ford Expedition benefited from its substantial curb weight and received a five-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA. The Expedition came standard with Ford Co-Pilot360, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Adaptive cruise control and semi-autonomous parking assistance were available from the Limited trim onward. The lane-keeping technology proved useful without being invasive during freeway driving.