[Millennium68]

Originally Posted by natahoa

The x3 is much smaller in all respects - cockpit, seats, cargo etc. if your wife likes the larger car better, I’d get the X5. Well worth $10k.

Ask your sales associate why the X5 you drove was floaty. Mine isn’t at all, I have a 40i with standard suspension. Supposedly the air suspension is floatier. And more expensive.

My car has a very stiff feel. Comfortable but stiffer than I would expect. To me, the X5 has a very sporty drive.

I do not know what car did you drive before (I drove X5). But let assure you that X5 even with M-suspension is very floaty and not stiff at all. I personally do not use comfort mode at all - only sport. In sport the car is better but not stiff as you claimed. In compare of previous X5 (and X3) to new X5 - new X5's sport mode feels the same as prev X5 comfort.
Also, the brakes are much softer in new one - there is a dead feel when you press the brakes pedal for about 1 inch. Only than you feel braking.

[Bolt1949]

I just traded in my 2018 X3 m40i for a 2019 X5 40i. I loved the performance of the m40i, but I simply could not take the seats/seating position any longer. I took a 4k road trip in the X3 and it killed my back. Even though for the most part my daily driving consists of short trips (averaging about 500 miles per month), once the driving comfort issue happened I was never comfortable in the car again. The X3 feels cramped inside, whereas the X5 feels much more roomy in comparison. The G05 cabin is very quiet inside - spring for at least the HK audio option. The G02 cabin was also quiet, at least once I pulled the fuse on the ASD. Thankfully, the G05 40i does not appear to have pretend engine noise piped into the cabin! When ASD is included, it should be adjustable via the I-drive system, IMHO. I do miss the instant and substantial power of the m40i engine, and its handling and brakes....

[Marty in NY]

Originally Posted by BayareaX3m40i

I just traded in my 2018 X3 m40i for a 2019 X5 40i. I loved the performance of the m40i, but I simply could not take the seats/seating position any longer. I took a 4k road trip in the X3 and it killed my back. Even though for the most part my daily driving consists of short trips (averaging about 500 miles per month), once the driving comfort issue happened I was never comfortable in the car again. The X3 feels cramped inside, whereas the X5 feels much more roomy in comparison. The G05 cabin is very quiet inside - spring for at least the HK audio option. The G02 cabin was also quiet, at least once I pulled the fuse on the ASD. Thankfully, the G05 40i does not appear to have pretend engine noise piped into the cabin! When ASD is included, it should be adjustable via the I-drive system, IMHO. I do miss the instant and substantial power of the m40i engine, and its handling and brakes....

This was also my impression when I drove the X3....just could not find a way to get comfortable in the drivers seat no matter how I adjusted it. Strange too as my current X3 is fine on cross country trips. ASD sucks in any car, who asked me? I did
The X5 is quick enough but I just didn't feel the snap of acceleration as my current X3 35i has, yet the specs say differently. I think the X5 is just a very refined car and BMW has marketed it for those who can afford it. I have not driven the 50i though, no sense in tormenting myself.

[Grentz]

The X5 is significantly more luxurious in ride comfort, 'solidness' on the road, seating comfort, internal space, etc. I regularly drive in an X3, X4 and my X5. The X5 feels significantly more planted and larger with more presence.
Also while in measurements the X5 trunk does not seem that much bigger, from numerous cabin trips I can tell you the X5 does fit noticeably more luggage and things than the X3 trunk.

I came from an M235i, just get out of your head that any SUV will even come close to that kind of sporty (frankly most other sports cars dont ride on rails like the 2 Series platform does). That said, the X5 is really for a different purpose.

[SHAWN 212]

I have the 2019 X5 40i M sport with the IAS and air suspension. I have it 3 months with about 1,000 miles on it. So I haven't driven it as much as I would have liked but if I'm in comfort I feel it's floaty. If I'm in adaptive on the city streets it feel ok to me. If I'm on the highway I try adaptive but I always wind up putting it in sport and it tightens up considerably. I prefer a sportiness. I try to keep it out of sport mode for now until I get past 1200 miles so I don't blow past 4,000 rpms. I can't wait to get to 1200 miles do I can really drive the car. If it's not what I like I might trade in and get the 2020 M50i with DHP.

[Wxnatscaps]

Interesting thread to read as I’m going back and forth on an X3 and X5. I’m going to take both for another test drive next month.

[TYJ]

I really appreciate everyone’s comments here. Not that I was really on the fence, but I was comparing the two models at the dealership just yesterday. This thread seals the deal for me that an X5 is the right choice for me.

[Aimster82]

Originally Posted by Tenac

Do you have the M styling on your 50i? Mine sure does pop during shifts just like the wife's X3 M40i.... I know it has the M exhaust though....

You sure your X5 makes the same popping sound as the M40i in Sport Plus mode? My X5 makes a nice V8 growl but definitely no popping sound.

This is what I am talking about:

Go to about 2:55 - 3:10

[smovva]

Originally Posted by buckybadger

I am looking to get an SUV in the next 3-5 months. I test drove Q7, GLC, X3, Macan, Macan S , Cayenne and X5 so far.

Porsche was quite underwhelming and boring to drive for me, including all others except the X3. Note that I drive an M2C as a daily and no modern BMW comes close to it in the fun factor department.

I liked the X3 feel and ride/handling balance. This SUV was a standout. But my wife liked the X5 more. I also liked the X5 but it left me feeling a little bland as I found it a little floaty. The steering felt very light and interior space to me looked slightly more than X3. Price difference between X3 and X5 was close to $10K. Not sure if it is justified.

Now I'm in conundrum and can't make up my mind. Can you please share your experience or insights on these vehicles? Did you cross shop and consider both? What made you choose the X5? Is the new X5 really that good or is it overrated? Maybe I need to test drive it one more time.

I am looking at both the X3 and X5 with M Sport package.

I came from an X3 (2011 F25) and bought the G05 X5 M40i. I wrote a long post about my impressions of the X5 coming from an X3.

PCD experience and Impressions of the X5 from an X3 owner

I love the X5 and its luxury but it doesn't feel as "connected' to the road as the X3 which I find more visceral. Overall, if we did not need an occasional 3rd row, I think I would have been happier with the X3, but since we need the 3rd row, I think the X5 is the best luxury SUV out there with one and I am glad I own one.

[Ilyam5]

Originally Posted by Millennium68

I do not know what car did you drive before (I drove X5). But let assure you that X5 even with M-suspension is very floaty and not stiff at all. I personally do not use comfort mode at all - only sport. In sport the car is better but not stiff as you claimed. In compare of previous X5 (and X3) to new X5 - new X5's sport mode feels the same as prev X5 comfort.
Also, the brakes are much softer in new one - there is a dead feel when you press the brakes pedal for about 1 inch. Only than you feel braking.

You test drove the car with wrong options. Try x5 50 with M sport suspension and M brakes. DHP if you need flatter cornering. Complete opposite of what you are describing. that's coming from M3. It is still a heavy car 5000+ pounds but you find me an SUV at that weight that has a better ride and handling...

[MystroX5]

Originally Posted by Aimster82

You sure your X5 makes the same popping sound as the M40i in Sport Plus mode? My X5 makes a nice V8 growl but definitely no popping sound.

This is what I am talking about:

Go to about 2:55 - 3:10

The V8TT 50i M-Sport has so much more low end bark and blows exhaust 12’ back everyone in the parking lot is looking for the muscle car. Shakes the ground like a subwoofer. . BMW doesn’t program in the 5 crackles with the V8TT like they do with the 6TT M motors unless I can’t hear them with the windows up. They also don’t pump in artificial exhaust through the audio system with the X5. I just test drove the X4M and the exhaust note was just o.k IMO. I though it would be more raspy for a full M car even with the new filters. Perhaps the Competition will sound raspier.

[geddylee]

I have driven both and the X5 is just too soft with too light and lousy steering for me. Even in Msport guise. There is no doubt it's a nicer car and larger, but it doesn't have that classic Bmw feel. The X3M40 is actually fun to drive with way better steering and brakes. I also agree that the seats in the X3 suck although I like them in the G20. Must be the seating position.

[buckybadger]

Originally Posted by Qsilver7

My question to you is...who is this vehicle for or who will be driving it the most? If it is for your wife...shouldn't she be able to drive the type of vehicle that she likes if she has to drive it as her daily? Why force her to drive a vehicle with a stiff ride and sporty handling when what she prefers is something more comfortable and "floaty"? Are you forcing her to drive what YOU want...instead of what she wants?

My wife also likes the feel of the X3. No one is forcing and the X5 will be driven by both of us. On the contrary, my wife likes stiff and tight steering in the X3 but X5 looks more fancy.

[buckybadger]

Looks like everyone is super happy with their X5. I will wait for the 2020 model year.

Also most of you are on a lease or did you buy the X5?

[MystroX5]

Originally Posted by buckybadger

Looks like everyone is super happy with their X5. I will wait for the 2020 model year.

Also most of you are on a lease or did you buy the X5?

I buy all my vehicles.

[TYJ]

Originally Posted by buckybadger

Looks like everyone is super happy with their X5. I will wait for the 2020 model year.

Also most of you are on a lease or did you buy the X5?

2020s are available now. Most people lease. I am buying.

[Aimster82]

Originally Posted by buckybadger

Looks like everyone is super happy with their X5. I will wait for the 2020 model year.

Also most of you are on a lease or did you buy the X5?

I leased. $99.5k MSRP $1220/month $0 down 12/36

You should build your car on BMWUSA.com. It takes 4 weeks to be delivered. Build your car, take it to the dealer and negotiate a price. I think most everyone is getting around 10% off.

[Marty in NY]

Originally Posted by TYJ

2020s are available now. Most people lease. I am buying.

The US build site is still listing the 2019 as of a few minutes ago. I'm sure you can work with your dealer on a 2020 via their build/pricing guide but you won't be able to build your own 2020 from home via the site.

.

[TYJ]

Correct. The online configurator has not been updated to reflect 2020 but the factory is only manufacturing 2020s now.

[buckybadger]

Originally Posted by TYJ

I really appreciate everyone’s comments here. Not that I was really on the fence, but I was comparing the two models at the dealership just yesterday. This thread seals the deal for me that an X5 is the right choice for me.

Thanks everyone! We are definitely leaning towards the X5 after all the feedback here.

If I need fun, then nothing better than my M2C!

[BDO]

Originally Posted by MystroX5

A M2C and a X5 50i M-Sport is my BMW weapons. These are "my" cars and no one drives them except on long family road trips where my wife logs in some hours.
Both are the top of what they are designed to do. The X5 50i M-Sport is the ultimate in power and luxury. A genuine 4 second 0-60mph luxury SUV. It's a beast. I had it on a 2200 mile road trip and it was by far the most comfortable and competent luxury car I have taken on this trip. It's just as fast above 75mph and chews up miles effortlessly in rain, sleet and snow. I hit ever kind of weather and owned the left lane on i95.

I am buying my wife a X3 in another month. (Thats 3 new BMW's in 6 months if your counting).
The X3 doesn't come close to the level of luxury the X5 does. The X3 is nice but it's not opulent to the levels of tech and features the G05 X5 has. It never will be. I test drove the new X4M and was disappointed that many features were not available as on the X5 and 7 Series. The top level options will never be on the X3 level SUV's. My wife doesn't need that level of tech and options so she loves the X1 and X3 size SUV.

Agree 100% with the above. I was cross shopping X6 and X4, and even though the X4 was a gen newer, the X6 came out tops when it comes to luxury , premium feel and features.

I don't need the space and size of the X6, but the execution and feel swung the decision heavily in the direction of F16 X6.

[MystroX5]

Originally Posted by buckybadger

Thanks everyone! We are definitely leaning towards the X5 after all the feedback here.

If I need fun, then nothing better than my M2C!

IMO you will have the perfect garage of vehicles. The M2C is a track animal yet the X5 is a luxury/muscle cruiser plus if you get the 50i with the V8TT the sounds coming out of your garage will be a symphony of power with both cars.

As a perspective how different in size your vehicles will be to each other. The X5 is a big SUV as the M2C isn’t that tiny of a sports car.