The BMW X5 M Competition delivers blistering performance despite its substantial 5,450-pound weight. This high-performance SUV accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds, completing the quarter-mile in 11.8 seconds at 118 mph, and achieves a remarkable 0.97 g on the skidpad. The X5 M Competition doesn’t just hide its weight; it transcends it with brute force and intelligent tuning.
Performance and Handling
While the engine is a standout – a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V-8 producing 617 horsepower – the steering feels detached, lacking the tactile feedback drivers expect from an M model. Despite this, the X5 M remains surprisingly agile, changing direction with willingness. The steering can be viewed as a remote control for performance rather than a direct connection to the road.
The powertrain is aggressive, downshifting quickly when pushed, and the sound is intoxicating. The SUV transforms effortlessly between a performance machine and a comfortable cruiser; folding the rear seats yields 72 cubic feet of cargo space.
Interior and Comfort
Inside, the X5 M prioritizes luxury. BMW opts for plush leather seating instead of the aggressive carbon-fiber buckets found in smaller M cars, and the cabin remains remarkably quiet, registering only 68 decibels at 70 mph. The ride is controlled even in its softest suspension setting. BMW understands that buyers in this segment expect refinement, and the X5 M delivers.
Infotainment and Design
The latest model features a large, curved display combining a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster with a 14.9-inch touchscreen. However, the digital gauges lack the clarity of traditional instruments, a step backward from BMW’s historically well-designed interiors.
Pricing and Competition
The 2026 X5 M Competition starts at $132,450, with our fully equipped test vehicle reaching $142,850. The price point positions it competitively against rivals like the Porsche Cayenne Turbo S and Audi RS Q8. If direct comparison isn’t considered, the X5 M provides an appealing balance of performance and luxury.
The BMW X5 M Competition is a compelling blend of power and luxury, but buyers should be prepared to overlook its numb steering in exchange for its impressive overall package.
