“My X5 is reliable, safe, offers wonderful performance and comfort and is beautiful. It is thoughtfully designed and is the perfect marriage of form and function.”
2021 BMW X5: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2021 BMW X5 is the arrival of the xDrive45e plug-in hybrid, while the xDrive50i leaves the lineup. Android Auto and SiriusXM 360L also become standard across the range.
About the 2021 BMW X5
4th generation (G05, 2019-2023), third model year before the 2024 refresh
BMW positions the X5 as the midsize luxury SUV for shoppers who want family usefulness without giving up a sporty feel. It pairs a roomy cabin, strong towing ability, and polished tech with more responsive steering, powertrains, and road manners than many softer luxury rivals. In plain terms, the X5’s identity is a premium everyday SUV that still tries to feel like a BMW from behind the wheel.
The 2021 X5 range spans the rear-wheel-drive sDrive40i, the all-wheel-drive xDrive40i, the plug-in-hybrid xDrive45e, and the performance-focused M50i. The core models pair a turbocharged six-cylinder engine with twin 12.3-inch displays, while the xDrive45e offers an EPA-estimated 30 miles of electric range and the M50i uses a 523-hp twin-turbo V8.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
The xDrive45e plug-in hybrid joins the lineup with a turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine, an electric motor, a 24-kWh battery, an EPA-estimated 30-mile electric range, and standard two-axle air suspension. The xDrive50i is dropped.
Tech
Android Auto and SiriusXM 360L become standard across the lineup. The M50i also gains standard Remote Start and ventilated front seats.
2021 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 | 6-Cyl, Hybrid, Turbo, 3.0 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 | Plug-In Hybrid |
| MPG City | 16 mpg | 21 mpg | 21 mpg | |
| MPG Highway | 22 mpg | 26 mpg | 25 mpg | |
| Horsepower | 523 hp | 335 hp | 335 hp | 389 hp |
| Torque | 553 lb-ft | 331 lb-ft | 331 lb-ft | 331 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 7200 lb | 7200 lb | 7200 lb | 7200 lb |
| Rear Legroom | 37.4 in | 37.4 in | 37.4 in | 37.4 in |
| Seats | 5 | 7 | 7 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Electric Range | 31 | |||
| MPGe Combined | 50 | |||
| 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 | ||||
| Bluetooth | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Premium Audio | ||||
| USB Ports | ||||
| 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 | ||||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||||
| Wood Interior Trim | ||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2021 BMW X5?
The biggest change is the new xDrive45e plug-in hybrid. It joins the 2021 lineup as the xDrive50i departs.
Is the 2021 BMW X5 xDrive45e new for this year?
Yes. The xDrive45e is new for 2021 and combines a turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine with an electric motor, a 24-kWh battery, and standard two-axle air suspension. Its EPA-estimated electric range is 30 miles.
Does every 2021 BMW X5 have Android Auto?
Yes. Android Auto becomes standard across the 2021 X5 lineup, joining wireless Apple CarPlay in the core six-cylinder trims.
What changed on the 2021 BMW X5 M50i?
The 2021 M50i gains standard Remote Start, ventilated front seats, Android Auto, and SiriusXM 360L. It retains its 523-hp twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 and performance-focused suspension and brake hardware.
Is the 2021 BMW X5 substantially different from the 2020 model?
No, not across the whole lineup. The plug-in-hybrid xDrive45e and newly standard connectivity features are meaningful updates, but the basic body, cabin layout, and overall design carry over from 2020.
2021 BMW X5 Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2021 BMW X5.
4.3
2021 BMW X5
(2,013 reviews)
“It's very comfortable and easily the best in class for mid-sized luxury SUVs. Note that there is some feature disparity for the 2021 model year due to the global silicon chip shortage and related supply chain issues.”
“I feel like the safety features like front/rear cross traffic alerts don't work. Too many features that cost extra that are standard on others. Too many features dropped in the name of "chip shortage". Do not roll any more of these vehicles out with that terrible "Hi Fi" sounds yesterday. So very disappointing for a luxury car.”