Read our expert 2025 BMW X5 M Competition review covering performance, pricing, features, specs, fuel economy, warranty details, and photos of this high-performance mid-size SUV.

2025-2026 BMW X5 M Competition
BMW
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MSRP:  $127,200

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Overview

The 2025 BMW X5 M Competition is a high-performance mid-size luxury SUV that pairs a 4.4-liter bi-turbo V8 with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, producing 617 hp and 553 lb-ft. It comes exclusively in Competition trim and sends power through an eight-speed M Sport Steptronic transmission and M xDrive all-wheel drive. BMW claims a 0-60 mph time of 3.7 seconds. With 33.9 cu-ft of cargo space, seating for five, and a full set of M chassis upgrades, it blends everyday usability with serious performance capability. It suits buyers who want supercar-level acceleration in a practical luxury SUV.


What’s New for 2025

There are no major updates for the 2025 X5 M Competition. The fourth-generation X5 arrived for 2019 and received a significant refresh for 2024, which introduced updated styling, a new mild-hybrid V8, and a simplified single-trim Competition lineup.


Exterior

The BMW X5 M Competition has a wide, assertive front end with large air intakes and a matte-black M kidney grille featuring horizontal double bars. M Shadowline LED headlights sit above a sculpted bumper, while black M air breathers with X5 M badging highlight the front fenders. From the side, pronounced wheel arches house standard staggered 21-inch front and 22-inch rear M Star-Spoke bi-color wheels. A model-specific roof spoiler manages airflow at the rear, where a black diffuser frames quad exhaust outlets. The design stays aggressive while maintaining the X5’s premium look.


Interior

Inside, the X5 M Competition centers around the BMW Curved Display, which integrates a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch central touchscreen under one glass surface. It runs BMW Operating System 8.5 and supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with M-specific performance data. M Multifunction seats trimmed in Extended Merino Leather provide strong lateral support and multiple adjustments, with illuminated M badging. 

Material quality remains consistently high throughout the cabin, with tight panel fitment and a mix of soft-touch surfaces and performance-oriented finishes that reflect its dual-purpose nature. The M-specific head-up display projects speed, navigation, and shift indicators directly onto the windshield. Standard features include four-zone climate control, ambient lighting with the Dynamic Lightbar, and carbon fiber trim. Cargo capacity measures 33.9 cu-ft behind the split-opening tailgate and expands to 72.3 cu-ft with the rear seats folded.


Price Range and Best Value Trim

The model comes only as the Competition, and the 2025 BMW X5 M Competition’s price starts at $127,200. Optional packages include the Executive Package for $3,100, the M Driver’s Package for $2,500, which raises top speed from 155 mph to 177 mph, and the Driving Assistance Professional Package for $1,700.

Trim LevelPrice
X5 M Competition$127,200

Key Specs

Powertrain

EngineHPTorqueTransmissionDrivetrain
4.4L Bi-Turbo V8 + 48V Mild Hybrid617 hp553 lb-ft8-speed M Sport SteptronicM xDrive AWD

Fuel Economy

CityHighwayCombinedRange
13 MPG18 MPG15 MPG328 miles

Fuel type: Premium Gasoline

0-60 mph: 3.7 seconds

Top speed: 155 mph (177 mph with M Driver’s Package)

Curb weight: 5,498 lb



Warranty

CoverageTerm
Basic4 years / 50,000 miles
Powertrain4 years / 50,000 miles
Corrosion12 years / unlimited miles
Roadside Assistance4 years / unlimited miles
Scheduled Maintenance3 years / 36,000 miles

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • 617-hp bi-turbo V8 with mild-hybrid boost delivers supercar-level acceleration
  • Impressive handling and braking for a 5,498-pound SUV
  • Standard Curved Display, M seats, and comprehensive luxury features
  • Retains full X5 practicality

Cons:

  • Ride quality is stiff even in Comfort mode, compromising daily comfort
  • 15 MPG combined is among the worst in the luxury midsize SUV segment
  • Overabundance of drive modes and settings creates a steep learning curve

Verdict

The BMW X5 M Competition pushes the limits of what a midsize SUV can do. At nearly 5,500 lbs, it accelerates to 60 mph in under four seconds while staying composed. The bi-turbo V8, supported by a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, delivers consistent, immediate power. Adaptive M Suspension Professional, upgraded steering, and six-piston front brakes give it the control to match its speed. Furthermore, it manages to hide its weight well while driving, with body control and grip levels that make it feel smaller than its dimensions suggest.

Inside, the Curved Display, Merino leather M seats, and the optional Bowers and Wilkins audio system create a cabin that aligns with its price point. The trade-offs remain clear. The ride stays firm even in its softest setting, fuel economy sits at 15 MPG combined, and the number of configurable driving options can feel excessive at first.

For buyers who want one vehicle to handle daily driving, long-distance trips, and occasional track use, the X5 M stands out as a compelling choice that balances performance with practicality.

2025-2026 BMW X5 M Competition

BMW

Competitors

Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S
Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT
Audi RSQ8 Performance


About the author

Cobus F. Potgieter

Reviews and Features Editor

Cobus F. Potgieter is a Reviews and Features Editor at Autoblog covering new car reviews, and technology and historical features. He moved to motoring media full time in 2021 after a career as a public relations practitioner and joined The Arena Group in June 2025.