BMW hybrid offers impressive gas mileage
Entry price: $65,400
Price as tested: $81,695
Likes: Hybrid economy, inline-6 turbo power, BMW heritage
Dislikes: Very expensive options, infotainment learning curve, roof pillar blind spots
This week we’re driving the 2021 BMW X5 “xDrive45e” the “e” standing for electric hybrid assist. This new BMW “electrified” plug-in X5 couldn’t come at a better time as the car industry worldwide is quickly re-arranging build centers to either fully electric or hybrid combustion/electric platforms.
The result of this X5 hybrid is an impressive 50 MPG on electric/gasoline combined or, if the battery runs completely down or a driver chooses, 20 MPG on the gas engine only.
I personally favor hybrid technology over the all-electric vehicles. Regardless of what engine a manufacturer chooses to pair its hybrid with, owners will always travel with this “gas engine safety net” in case a battery runs down with no charge station nearby.
This in no way distracts from the developments of the clean air electric car boom currently taking place. For me, having a plug-in hybrid like this BMW X5 tester that offers great fuel mileage and lower emissions and then adds the performance and confidence of its
proven BMW turbocharged inline-6 cylinder is most desirable. This is the recipe I favor for overall success, be it today or during the decades ahead.
Because this X5 Hybrid is not an allelectric vehicle that can travel, say, 350 miles before a recharge, these vehicles don’t have a “backup” internal combustion engine and rely on large, powerful batteries. These vehicles need recharging, be it at home or charge stations along the highways.
Also, don’t just zoom in on the fact that our tester BMW X5 Hybrid has a maximum fully electric driving range of
just 30 miles, which in itself sounds dismal. This is fine for around-town driving. Keep in mind a Toyota Prius offers just 25 miles on fully electric.
Specifically, our X5 in hybrid electric mode can deliver the 50 MPG for about three hours of traveling when the battery is fully charged. Then as the battery empties, drivers rely on the gas engine and still enjoy a 20 MPG vehicle.
Outwardly, this fourth generation X5 features a nice exterior upgrade as well as a stronger 4x4 independent suspension, advanced driver assist engineering and even more safety and entertainment amenities.
BMW’s Hybrid powertrain, the 3.0liter TwinPower Turbo inline-6, relies on a “no turbo lag” response from its common rail direct fuel injection system with electrical assist that quickens the fuel charge and results in the “TwinPower Turbo” nomenclature even though the X5 uses but one turbocharger. This proven inline-6 then combines with an 82 kW electric motor with a 24 kWh battery pack to deliver 389 horsepower with 443 lb. ft. of torque. The result is a BMW Hybrid that can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in just 5.3 seconds and tow some pretty heavy cargo.
As for charging, owners can recharge at home with the “Occasional Use Cable” included with every BMW plug-in hybrid sold. (Times will vary, check with your dealer). Or, owners can install a BMW i Wallbox in your home for fast charging between daily drives. Additionally, BMW’s partnership with EVgo gives access to the nation’s largest fast charging network through the BMW Charging app, making charging on the road even more convenient.
On the highways, X5 Hybrid is one of the better handling midsize SUVs we’ve driven. The operator can choose from six drive modes, from super-economy to performance. A self-leveling air suspension helps deliver an ultra-quiet ride connected to a fully automatic 4x4 system. The interior is top class luxury and the X5 seating is comfortable.