“The only issue is that voice recognition is still not as good as it could be. Entering addresses by voice recognition is spotty and frustrating. The problem is with an address. Like. 2004 North 588 East. The system can't recognize that. The results are quite funny, but also irritating. To be fair, my previous car's voice recognition was also spotty and frustrating. Hopefully the technology will continue to improve.”
2015 BMW X5: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The most important change for the 2015 BMW X5 is recalibrated 8-speed automatic transmission tuning, which brings slightly quicker acceleration and better efficiency across the lineup. This is otherwise a light update, not a redesign.
About the 2015 BMW X5
3rd gen (F15, 2014-2018), second model year.
BMW presents the X5 as the original “Sports Activity Vehicle,” meaning a midsize luxury SUV that aims to feel more responsive and driver-focused on the road than many rivals. Its main draw is the mix of upscale cabin quality, flexible cargo space, available rear- or all-wheel drive, and a choice of strong six-cylinder, diesel, or V8 power. For most shoppers, the X5 is the luxury SUV that puts handling and performance ahead of a purely comfort-first feel.
The 2015 X5 ranges from the rear-wheel-drive, 300-hp sDrive35i to the all-wheel-drive xDrive35i and torque-rich diesel xDrive35d. The xDrive50i is the performance-luxury version, pairing a 445-hp twin-turbo V8 with leather upholstery, multi-contour front seats, and keyless entry. Every trim has navigation with a 10.2-inch display, a panoramic moonroof, and heated power front seats.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
BMW recalibrated the 8-speed automatic transmission on every trim for slightly quicker acceleration and better efficiency.
Styling
A sport leather steering wheel became standard across the lineup.
Tech
Bluetooth audio and a USB connection became standard. The fuller smartphone-integration package became a standalone option, while Comfort Access keyless entry became standard on the xDrive50i.
2015 BMW X5 specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 6-Cyl, Turbo, 3.0 Liter | 6-Cyl, TT Dsl, 3.0L | 6-Cyl, Turbo, 3.0 Liter | V8, TT, 4.4L |
| Transmission | Auto 8-Spd Spt Steptronic | Auto 8-Spd Spt Steptronic | Auto 8-Spd Spt Steptronic | Auto 8-Spd Spt Steptronic |
| Drivetrain | RWD | AWD | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Diesel | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 19 mpg | 24 mpg | 18 mpg | 15 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 27 mpg | 31 mpg | 27 mpg | 22 mpg |
| Horsepower | 300 hp | 255 hp | 300 hp | 445 hp |
| Torque | 300 lb-ft | 413 lb-ft | 300 lb-ft | 480 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 6000 lb | 6000 lb | 6000 lb | 6000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 66 cu-ft | 66 cu-ft | 66 cu-ft | 66 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 36.6 in | 36.6 in | 36.6 in | 36.6 in |
| Seats | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||||
| Alarm System | ||||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | ||||
| Automatic High Beams | ||||
| Hill Descent Control | ||||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||||
| Park Assist | ||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||
| 360 Camera | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| LED Headlights | ||||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||
| Roof Rails | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Premium Audio | ||||
| Smartphone Interface | ||||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||||
| Third Row Seat | ||||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2015 BMW X5?
The biggest change is revised tuning for the 8-speed automatic transmission. It gives every 2015 X5 slightly quicker acceleration and better efficiency than the 2014 model.
Is the 2015 BMW X5 a redesign?
No, the 2015 BMW X5 is not a redesign. It keeps the body and trim structure introduced for 2014 and receives lighter mechanical and equipment updates.
Is Bluetooth audio standard in the 2015 BMW X5?
Yes, Bluetooth audio and a USB connection are standard across the 2015 BMW X5 lineup. The more complete smartphone-integration package is a separate option.
Is the 2015 BMW X5 meaningfully different from the 2014 model?
The differences are modest rather than transformative. The 2015 model has revised transmission tuning, a standard sport leather steering wheel, and standard Bluetooth audio and USB connectivity; the xDrive50i also gains standard Comfort Access keyless entry.
Which 2015 BMW X5 trim has rear-wheel drive?
The 2015 BMW X5 sDrive35i has rear-wheel drive. It uses a 300-hp turbocharged six-cylinder engine, while the xDrive35i, xDrive35d, and xDrive50i have all-wheel drive.
2015 BMW X5 Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2015 BMW X5.
4.5
2015 BMW X5
(709 reviews)
“So far very satisfied with this car. It is fun to drive, roomy, and good looking.”
“Love the power and reliability of the BMW X5. It's very versatile as a family car, working car, and makes a statement on the road: class and power.”