2014–2018 BMW X5 Review: Should You Buy It?

This score covers 2014–2018 only. The model guide scores the X5 across all generations.

This generation launched in 2014: Third-generation X5: lighter structure, 8-speed automatic across the range, wider turbo engine lineup and a plug-in hybrid. Powertrain and core hardware carry over across the span, which is exactly why we cover the whole generation on one page instead of splitting near-identical years apart.

Across 2014–2018, reliability tracks the generation as a whole rather than any one model year. Early-build cars (2014–2015) carry the usual first-run risk, and late-run cars have had years of TSB and running fixes applied. The issues that actually decide whether a car is worth buying: Oil-filter-housing gasket leaks (still); Electric water pump and thermostat failures; N63TU V8 remains the expensive option to own; Occasional electrical and iDrive faults.

• ✓Oil-filter-housing gasket leaks (still)
• ✓Electric water pump and thermostat failures
• ✓N63TU V8 remains the expensive option to own
• ✓Occasional electrical and iDrive faults

Expect X5 maintenance costs typical of the F15 generation. Engines: 3.0L N55 turbo I6 (xDrive35i / sDrive35i) / 3.0L N57 turbo-diesel (xDrive35d) / 4.4L N63TU twin-turbo V8 (xDrive50i) / 2.0L turbo PHEV (xDrive40e, 2016+). Transmissions: 8-speed ZF automatic. Budget for the usual service intervals (oil, brakes, cooling, transmission fluid) plus preventative work on the known-weak items above. Parts for a 2018 BMW X5 are priced closer to the German luxury norm — factor that into your ownership budget.

Within 2014–2018, condition and maintenance history beat model year almost every time. Later cars in the span are typically the most sorted; earlier cars are the cheapest way into the generation. If a 2014–2018 BMW X5 passes a pre-purchase inspection with the known weak points checked, it's a defensible used buy. Strengths in this generation: ZF 8-speed is excellent, N55 six is the value pick, Much better cabin than E70.

Best for: Buyers cross-shopping the whole F15 generation of the BMW X5 rather than one specific model year.

The 2007–2013 generation is cheaper and simpler, with an older tech and safety package. The 2019–present generation brings newer powertrains and driver assistance at a higher price.