“The size of the vehicle is perfect for an individual or small family. My X5 is fun to drive and has great features. I don't miss any technology. I also feel safe and comfortable when driving short or long distances.”
2020 BMW X5: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2020 BMW X5 is the new 523-hp M50i, which becomes the most powerful version of the regular X5 lineup. BMW also adds the rear-wheel-drive sDrive40i, while the rest of the changes are modest equipment updates.
About the 2020 BMW X5
4th generation (G05), second model year
BMW positions the X5 as a midsize luxury SUV that blends strong road manners, quick acceleration, upscale cabin design, and genuine family usefulness. It is the brand’s core “Sports Activity Vehicle,” meant to feel more engaging than a typical luxury SUV without giving up cargo space, easy entry, or everyday comfort. The X5’s main draw is that it mixes BMW-style performance with a high-tech cockpit and a roomy, premium interior.
The xDrive40i remains the everyday heart of the range, pairing a 335-hp six-cylinder engine and all-wheel drive with dual 12.3-inch displays, navigation, and a driver-assistance safety suite. The new rear-wheel-drive sDrive40i provides a simpler entry point, while the V8-powered xDrive50i emphasizes effortless power and the M50i adds sportier suspension, stronger brakes, and 523 hp.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
BMW added two trims: the rear-wheel-drive sDrive40i with a 335-hp turbocharged six-cylinder engine, and the all-wheel-drive M50i with a 523-hp twin-turbo V8. The M50i also brought sport-tuned suspension, upgraded brakes, and a sport rear differential.
Styling
The new M50i received its own more aggressive sport appearance details.
Tech
Comfort Access proximity keyless entry became standard on 40i models. Wireless phone charging became standard on the V8-powered xDrive50i and M50i.
2020 BMW X5 specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, Twin Turbo, 4.4 Liter | 6-Cyl, Turbo, 3.0 Liter | 6-Cyl, Turbo, 3.0 Liter | V8, Twin Turbo, 4.4 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 8-Spd Sport w/Steptronic, Sport & Manual Modes | Automatic, 8-Spd Sport w/Steptronic, Sport & Manual Modes | Automatic, 8-Spd Sport w/Steptronic, Sport & Manual Modes | Automatic, 8-Spd Sport w/Steptronic, Sport & Manual Modes |
| Drivetrain | AWD | RWD | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 16 mpg | 21 mpg | 20 mpg | 16 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 22 mpg | 26 mpg | 26 mpg | 22 mpg |
| Horsepower | 523 hp | 335 hp | 335 hp | 456 hp |
| Torque | 553 lb-ft | 330 lb-ft | 330 lb-ft | 479 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 7200 lb | 7200 lb | 7200 lb | 7200 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 72.3 cu-ft | 72.3 cu-ft | 72.3 cu-ft | 72.3 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 37.4 in | 37.4 in | 37.4 in | 37.4 in |
| Seats | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||||
| Alarm System | ||||
| Automatic High Beams | ||||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||||
| Park Assist | ||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||
| 360 Camera | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| LED Headlights | ||||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||
| Roof Rails | ||||
| Side Steps | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Premium Audio | ||||
| Smartphone Interface | ||||
| 4-Zone Automatic Air Conditioning | ||||
| Aluminum Interior Trim | ||||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Memory Front Seats | ||||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||||
| Remote Start | ||||
| Third Row Seat | ||||
| Tilt Wheel | ||||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||||
| Wood Interior Trim | ||||
Frequently asked questions
Was the 2020 BMW X5 redesigned?
No. The 2020 BMW X5 is the second year of the fourth-generation design introduced for 2019. Its main updates are two additional trims and a few newly standard convenience features.
What is the biggest change to the 2020 BMW X5?
The biggest change is the new M50i performance trim. It has a 523-hp twin-turbo V8, all-wheel drive, sport-tuned suspension, stronger brakes, a sport rear differential, and more aggressive styling.
What is the difference between the 2020 X5 M50i and xDrive50i?
The M50i is the more performance-focused V8 model. It makes 523 hp instead of the xDrive50i's 456 hp and adds sport-tuned suspension, upgraded brakes, a sport rear differential, and unique exterior details.
Does the 2020 BMW X5 come with rear-wheel drive?
Yes. BMW added the rear-wheel-drive sDrive40i for 2020. It uses the same 335-hp turbocharged six-cylinder engine as the all-wheel-drive xDrive40i.
Did the 2020 BMW X5 gain any standard features?
Yes. Comfort Access proximity keyless entry became standard on the 40i models, and wireless phone charging became standard on the V8-powered trims.
2020 BMW X5 Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2020 BMW X5.
4.3
2020 BMW X5
(700 reviews)
“I have been so impressed with this vehicle on so many levels. The Tanzanite Blue color is amazing! The turn radius for a SUV-crossover vehicle is amazingly tight without leaning. Acceleration is terrific. I love to hear the sound of the engine when taking off at a light. You can just hear that performance rumble. Truly a wonderful experience so far!”
“The drive is superior. I have never had so much fun driving a car! it is fast when I want it to be and smooth and careful when I need it to be. I have loved owning this vehicle so far. It is also very responsive to turns and steering.”