Interiors – The interiors offer a nice contrast to the rugged exterior. The cabin is a soothing place that speaks of luxury and elegance. The layout is similar to the other new BMWs like the 3-Series. The sense of space up-front is immense, thanks to the tall height and large glass area. The massive panoramic sunroof also adds to the sense of space. The seats are supremely comfortable with a variety of adjustments on offer.
The large 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system is very responsive and has multiple ways to control it
The X5 comes equipped with a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and an infotainment screen of the same size. The instrument cluster is highly customisable and offers fantastic clarity. We have now become used to BMW’s excellent iDrive system but with that high-resolution display, it impresses even more. The screen can be operated via touch, voice command, gesture or by the rotary dial. The screen is angled towards the driver giving the cabin a driver-centric feel. BMW has retained physical buttons which are logically laid out. The system, as always, is very easy to operate.
Small details in the interiors really create a sense of occasion every time you enter. We like the solid-feeling knurled rotary dial, the glossy finish that houses the buttons near the gear lever and the beautifully styled crystal-effect gear selector. The old BMW X5 had a slightly generic cabin, but the new one has some individuality to it. The X5 does not disappoint in the equipment front either. You get all the bells and whistles like electric front seats with memory, ambient lighting, sun blinds, four-zone climate control, front and rear parking sensors and multiple charging ports as standard. Higher trims offer a Harman Kardon audio system, surround-view cameras, soft close doors amongst others.
Both rows of seats are extremely spacious and provide excellent comfort along with an enormous boot
The second row offers great space and can be comfortable for three. There is acres of headroom and legroom but the rear seats could’ve done with more thigh support. The X5 does not get a third-row option now, which is reserved only for the X7. What you get instead is a large boot with a split tailgate.
Overall, the interior of the X5 feels fresher than its competitors’ and more than delivers on aspects such as quality and equipment.