IN PICS: Review Of BMW X5 2023 Facelift, A Big Powerful SUV

If you like driving, then BMW is the one to go for and that stays true even today with this factor being a point of differentiation between the luxury giants. That said, where BMW has changed is the luxury quotient which has now been doubled compared to the earlier offerings. The X5 in particular has been one of the best selling BMW SUVs and now in its new avatar it is more luxurious while still being fun to drive. It is a huge SUV but from behind the wheel the six cylinder engine is a gem with its sharp power delivery and the way it reacts in the sportier modes. (Image Credit: Somnath Chatterjee)

The straight six petrol engine develops 381bhp and there is a mild hybrid system too. At low speeds, the new X5 is smoother and comfortable while the performance is strong- almost diesel like with a distinct push. It feels the sportiest and more powerful with a distinct fun to drive character. (Image Credit: Somnath Chatterjee)

The light steering also makes it easy to drive but what is a change is the much better ride quality which is much better than the previous X5'x but is still slightly on the firm side thanks to the huge tyres which again give a sporty but a firm edge. (Image Credit: Somnath Chatterjee)

There is air suspension which makes for a smoother drive but it is still more for dynamics than a floaty type of ride quality which other luxury SUVs have. Where the new X5 also scores is the sheer presence on offer with a sharp new look with a new bumper while the illuminated kidney grille is another wow factor along with the way those fancy LED lamps operate. Then you see those huge 21-inch wheels and a look at those massive rear tyres especially makes it seem like it is a supercar! (Image Credit: Somnath Chatterjee)

Inside, the new X5 gains a curved screen set-up while the quality of materials are top-notch for sure. The massive 14.9-inch screen is joined with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster while display quality or useability is superb. However, climate control buttons have been removed and now you need to use the touchscreen to do so- which means you might need to take your eyes off the road to adjust. (Image Credit: Somnath Chatterjee)

Elsewhere, the gear selector isn't a stubby unit like it was as now it is a lot more posh being made of glass. Amongst the loads of features on offer, heated/cooled seats, a 16-speaker Harman Kardon audio, soft close doors, internal dash cam for recording, a customizable heads-up display along with remote parking via smartphone are some which stand out. (Image Credit: Somnath Chatterjee)

There are also more driver assistance features on offer now. Like the removal of climate control buttons, the central AC vents seem to be hidden but the controller seems fidgety to use. Space is huge as you would expect with comfy rear seats while not having the adjustment of the X7 but still having good thigh support and very good legroom. You sit higher here too while the split open tailgate is lovely with 650 litres space. (Image Credit: Somnath Chatterjee)

The top-end X5 in M Sport trim is Rs 1 crore plus but the changes along with the new look does justify it to some extent and it is by far the most fun to drive SUV in its class too while it is a lot more luxurious. As a luxury SUV to drive and also being driven around, the new X5 makes for a serious case for itself. What we like- Looks, performance, new features, interior design and quality. What we do not like- some physical buttons removed, firm ride. (Image Credit: Somnath Chatterjee)