There are performance SUVs, and there are BMW performance SUVs. And if you want one, the BMW X5 M is among the best. Why buy one over an X6 M or X7? The X6 M's design sacrifices practicality for style, while the X7 leans more towards luxury than performance, even in its top trim. So, besides being a performance SUV, what else makes the 2023 BMW X5 M worth buying?
2023 BMW X5 M Review
Sometimes, it's good to have more in an SUV than just luxury, amenities, and practicality. Performance can transform a typical drive into an exciting experience, not just for the driver but for everyone in the car. Some performance SUVs compromise on certain aspects to become what they are, but the 2023 BMW X5 M delivers a well-rounded package that few can match, including some of BMW's SUVs. Its only flaw, which it shares with other M-labeled SUVs, is that the suspension is tuned for performance rather than comfort. This means a slightly firmer ride than your average SUV, even in the softest suspension settings. But trust us, once you've experienced the X5M's capabilities, the trade-off becomes a small price to pay. The 2023 X5 M Competition is even better, but we'll cover that in a separate review.

The Power Alone Is Likely To Convince You That You Need One
The 2023 BMW X5 M comes with a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8, which makes 600 horsepower and 553 lb.ft sent to the rear wheels via an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. That's already exciting enough to make you want to buy one, right? 0-60 mph takes approximately 3.6 seconds, which sounds impossible for a 5,500-pound SUV. What's disappointing is that, despite the 2023 BMW X5 M being capable of speeds nearing 200 mph, BMW limited the top speed in the 2023 model to 155 mph. Not even examples with the M Driver's package can reach 190 mph as the package only raises the top speed to 177 mph.

Performance Is The Focus At Every Touchpoint
Inside the 2023 BMW X5 M, the performance orientation is evident on every surface, from the leather bucket seats to the steering wheel and dashboard. The cabin is designed to excite and pamper, ensuring it meets the needs of those who want character and luxury without sacrificing either. The space inside is generous, with ample headroom and legroom for front and rear passengers. However, given that the second row is a bench, it doesn't get as many amenities as the front, which has heated seats with a memory setting and is electronically multi-adjustable. On the plus side, the rear seats offer the flexibility of a 40/20/40 split fold, making it easy to expand the already sizeable trunk space.

It's Appearance May Be Subtle, But It's Performance Is Anything But
Visually, the 2023 BMW X5 M doesn't speak for itself much, and it's quite hard to pick up that it's an M-infused SUV waiting to prove itself to anyone who dares doubt what it's capable of. But from the front, it's quite easy to pick up the difference compared to lower trim X5s, especially due to the larger grille and vents blacked out to match the car's character. There's also a matching color lip that improves aerodynamics and elevates the front end's appeal. The rear end takes a similar approach with a more pronounced diffuser and a quad exhaust setup that sounds gnarly even in the car's most subtle driving modes. The side profile is a mix of aggression and elegance with sharp body lines. However, the wider wheel arches, aggressive wing mirrors, and decorative yet visually appealing fender vents show that there's probably more to the car than meets the eye.

Catered To Your Every Need
Whether performance-oriented or not, high-end SUVs are known to come expansively equipped, and the 2023 BMW X5 M is no exception. The cabin is outfitted with all that you could want, including a Harman Kardon sound system that sounds superb. Additionally, there's a 12.3-inch infotainment display on the dash that's intuitive and well-equipped, incorporating features like onboard navigation, real-time traffic display, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Underneath, the car sits on an Active M suspension, which, like the throttle and transmission response, can be adjusted to meet your driving preferences. Convenience is well-catered for as well Convenience is well-catered for as well with BMW, including keyless entry and a power-operated tailgate, among a host of other features as part of the standard equipment. Safety has always been a priority for BMW, and the 2023 X5 M is equipped with a suite of advanced safety and driver assist features. Some include automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning and lane-keeping assist.

Buy One, And You'll Drive Away Delighted
As a fairly recent release, expect prices for the 2023 BMW X5 M to average near its MSRP, roughly $110,000. However, you might also come across listings in the $85,000 to $99,000 range, particularly for vehicles not equipped with additional options beyond the standard features. Excited about buying one? Check out our available options among BMW X5 listings, and if you'd like to take a look at other BMW performance SUVs we have for sale, check out our BMW listings.
Final Thoughts
Trying to combine the comfort of an SUV with performance is a tough ask, but BMW is one of the manufacturers who always do it right, and the 2023 BMW X5 M is proof of that. It masterfully combines the practicality of an SUV with the performance of a sports car, achieving a balance that's hard to find elsewhere. Its power is exhilarating, and its handling is remarkably agile despite its size. Exotic Car Trader creates an exclusive and safe way of buying and selling cars, eliminating the daunting experiences of private selling for buyers and sellers. Every vehicle listed on Exotic Car Trader goes through a private seller verification process, ensuring legitimacy for our buyers. Also, Exotic Car Trader's car buying process is well outlined, with all fees and packages providing our buyers with a seamless and inclusive experience. We can handle the escrow of funds at no additional cost to the buyer and seller, and we also provide trade-in and financing options for buyers. For transaction safety, our Transactions Team is world-class and equipped with industry fraud detection tools to ensure a safe and secure transaction. These are just some of the benefits you enjoy when buying or selling on Exotic Car Trader. Contact us for listing services or to buy a car on Exotic Car Trader today.
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