2021 BMW X5 xDrive45e

The highly popular BMW X5 midsize luxury crossover has been traveling U.S. roads for more than 2 decades; the fourth generation debuted in 2019. In 2021, BMW brought back a plug-in hybrid variant, the xDrive45e, with an all-electric range of 30 miles. The 45e is powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 (282 hp) and an electric motor (111 hp), good for 389 hp total and 443 lb-ft of torque. This gives the 45e a 0 - 60 time of about 5.3 seconds - quick for a heavy SUV - and the brakes do a good job of bringing it to a stop. The X5’s exterior remains unchanged; the roomy cabin features headroom aplenty and comfortable, heated front and rear seats. BMW’s attractive digital instrument cluster and infotainment system are a big improvement over earlier iDrive systems. Our test vehicle featured a nice package of advanced safety features, including optional adaptive LED headlights with high-beam assist and trafficjam assist. The xDrive45e could be a compelling alternative to the standard X5, especially if you drive most of your daily miles on electricity. Additionally, a $7,500 federal tax credit drops the PHEV’s base price to more than $5,000 below that of the standard X5 xDrive40i.