“Very fun to drive all of the time. Amazing power and acceleration. Has the traditional BMW look and strong powerful engine. Mid-size SUV with sport car like performance. Beats most vehicles on the road.”
2021 BMW X5 M: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2021 BMW X5 M is standard Android Auto. This is otherwise a light update, with the separate Competition trim replaced by a Competition package.
About the 2021 BMW X5 M
3rd gen X5 M (F95), second model year of the generation introduced for 2020.
BMW positions the X5 M as a high-performance midsize luxury SUV that mixes super-SUV speed with daily usefulness. Its identity centers on strong V8 power, all-wheel-drive traction, sharp handling hardware, a premium cabin, and enough passenger and cargo space to work as a family vehicle. Compared with other midsize luxury SUVs, the X5 M leans more heavily into serious performance and M-brand engineering.
The 2021 X5 M is a five-seat performance SUV built for strong road performance and everyday usefulness. Its twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 works with an eight-speed automatic, AWD, an adaptive suspension, and an active rear differential. Inside are a 12.3-inch digital instrument display, a 12.3-inch touchscreen with navigation, smartphone connectivity, and a surround-view parking camera.
What changed, by category
Tech
Android Auto and SiriusXM with 360L become standard equipment.
Trim lineup
The separate X5 M Competition trim is dropped and replaced by a Competition package for the X5 M.
2021 BMW X5 M specs and features by trim
| Feature | |
|---|---|
| Engine | V8, Twin Turbo, 4.4 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 8-Spd M Sport w/Drivelogic, Sport & Manual Modes |
| Drivetrain | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas |
| MPG City | 14 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 19 mpg |
| Horsepower | 600 hp |
| Torque | 553 lb-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 37.4 in |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Alarm System | |
| Automatic High Beams | |
| Blindspot Sensors | |
| Lane Departure Warning | |
| Park Assist | |
| 360 Camera | |
| Alloy Wheels | |
| LED Headlights | |
| Panorama Moon Roof | |
| Roof Rails | |
| Head-Up Display | |
| Navigation System | |
| Premium Audio | |
| Smartphone Interface | |
| Heated Front Seats | |
| Heated Steering Wheel | |
| Leather Seats | |
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |
| Push-Button Engine Start | |
| Remote Start | |
| Ventilated Front Seats | |
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2021 BMW X5 M?
Standard Android Auto is the biggest change for 2021. SiriusXM with 360L also becomes standard.
Does the 2021 BMW X5 M have a separate Competition trim?
No. BMW dropped the separate Competition trim for 2021 and offered its Competition treatment as a package for the X5 M instead.
Did the 2021 BMW X5 M get a new engine?
No. The 2021 model keeps the gas-powered twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8, eight-speed automatic transmission, and AWD layout used for 2020.
Is the 2021 BMW X5 M a redesign?
No. The 2021 X5 M is the second model year of the third generation introduced for 2020, so it is a light update rather than a redesign.
How is the 2021 BMW X5 M different from the 2020 model?
The 2021 model adds standard Android Auto and SiriusXM with 360L, and it replaces the separate Competition trim with a Competition package. The core V8, AWD, and eight-speed automatic setup carries over.
2021 BMW X5 M Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2021 BMW X5 M.
4.4
2021 BMW X5 M
(70 reviews)
“SAFETY is the MOST important item to consider!!! Great right side viewing from the driver's seat.”
“Overall A+ want a slightly less harsh ride in comfort mode for daily driving. Only complaint with vehicle. Otherwise A+++++”