The 2024 BMW X5 is the best luxury plug-in hybrid SUV

The BMW X5 is one of the most popular intermediate luxury SUVs with three rows of seats in Canada, and for good reason. It is a prestigious vehicle, enjoyable to drive, and very comfortable. It also offers excellent towing capacity and is not lacking in technology.

Moreover, it is also one of the only vehicles in its category that is available as a plug-in hybrid version. Most of its competitors only offer gasoline engines. Some are available in hybrid versions, and others are simply 100% electric. BMW saw an opportunity there, and that's where the idea of an X5 PHEV was born.

An efficient powertrain

The 2024 BMW X5 PHEV features a combination of a 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder turbocharged engine and an electric motor for a total power output of 483 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, allowing the Bavarian automaker's SUV to go from 0-100 km/h in just 4.8 seconds. The BMW X5 PHEV has a 29.5 kWh battery, which allows it to store enough energy to offer a range of 64 kilometers in 100% electric mode. The best part is that the Bavarian automaker's SUV still manages to offer a towing capacity of 5,950 pounds, making it more versatile than most of its competitors.

Not for all budgets

If your primary goal is to save money, the 2024 BMW X5 PHEV may not be the ideal vehicle for you. Its starting price is $93,652, and that's without even mentioning options. You can add various M packages, which range in price from $2,000 to $2,500 each. There are also other finishing options that cost between $500 and $1,000. In short, all this to say that the bill can quickly climb into six figures.

So, if fuel economy is not the priority for the BMW X5 PHEV, what can such a version be used for? In fact, as someone who has owned a plug-in hybrid vehicle myself, I can tell you that ride comfort is a key element of success for this type of vehicle, which tends to offer better soundproofing. It is particularly pleasant to drive in electric mode in the city or for short trips. I find that it adds finesse to the driving experience of a vehicle, especially when it comes to a luxury model like the BMW X5.

Next, plug-in hybrid vehicles are an excellent way to get into the electrified vehicle category. You can become familiar with electric driving and especially add recharging to your routine without the stress of running out of energy, as the gasoline engine is there if you reach the end of your electric range. This allows you to know whether or not you would be comfortable with the idea of driving a 100% electric vehicle.

Jean-Sébastien Poudrier