Skip to main content

2014 BMW X5 ‘SAV’ gets more power and tech, but not more style

The BMW X5 was one of the first luxury SUVs (or “Sports Activity Vehicles,” in Bimmer-speak), and its maker is looking to keep it at the head of the segment in its third generation. Despite its conservative styling, BMW says the 2014 X5 will be significantly sportier to drive.

At first glance, it’s apparent that while BMW has redesigned the X5, it hasn’t revolutionized it. The new SUV is still recognizable as an X5, although the lines have softened a bit to help it fit in with today’s post-truck sport-utes. BMW’s trademark twin kidney grille is hard to miss.

Like the 3 Series, the X5 will be available with a choice of three exterior trim packages (xLine, Luxury Line, and M Sport) that offer buyers a bit of customization.

The evolutionary approach continues under the hood, where the two gasoline engines carry over. Base X5 xDrive35i and new-for-2014 sDrive35i (rear-wheel drive) models get BMW’s N55 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six, which produces 300 horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque.

Also carrying over is the 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 in X5 xDrive50i, which also gets a power boost for 2014. Thanks to the addition of Valvetronic variable valve timing, the V8 now makes 445 hp and 480 lb-ft, increases of 45 hp and 30 lb-ft.

BMW says the X5 xDrive35i will do 0 to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds, while the xDrive50i will do the same in 4.9 seconds, improvements of 0.2 and 0.4 second, respectively.

All-new for 2014 is the xDrive35d’s 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six. It produces 255 hp and 413 lb-ft of torque and while BMW says it will best last year’s model in efficiency, it won’t release EPA mileage estimates this far from the X5’s on sale date.

All X5 models get BMW’s eight-speed automatic transmission. An optional sport transmission adds launch control, which seems of little utility in this sport-utility.

Also standard is the EfficientDynamics suite of fuel-saving tech. An “Eco Pro” mode tames throttle response and programs electrical accessories like the climate control for energy efficiency. There’s also an engine start/stop function, regenerative braking and, according to BMW, best-in-class aerodynamics.

There’s also plenty of tech to keep drivers from crashing their X5s. The Active Driving Assistant package includes Lane Departure Warning, and a pedestrian and collision warning system that can automatically slow the car from speeds of up to 37 mph.

Other tech features include standard Adaptive Xenon Headlights (LEDs are optional), an optional Night Vision system, Head-Up Display, and Parking Assistant, which can autonomously parallel park the X5.

Also standard is BMW Apps, which allows drivers to download compatible apps that bridge the gap between smartphone and infotainment system, as long as they’re using an iPhone.

BMW promises a full slate of apps that will allow X5 drivers to access Facebook and Twitter, listen to Pandora, and get directions, all with the car’s iDrive controller taking the place of an iPhone touch screen.

The 2014 BMW X5 will make its auto show debut at Frankfurt in September, and will go on sale in the United States shortly after that with inline-six or V8 gasoline power.

The diesel X5 xDrive35d will follow those models to the showrooms in early 2014.

Stephen Edelstein
Stephen is a freelance automotive journalist covering all things cars. He likes anything with four wheels, from classic cars…
Waymo lays groundwork for robotaxi revolution
A Waymo car production line.

In recent years, Waymo has been edging toward its long-held goal of revolutionizing urban transportation by deploying a fully autonomous, scalable, and sustainable ride-hailing service. 

The Alphabet-owned company has just taken another step in that direction with the opening of a new vehicle factory in Metro Phoenix, Arizona, in partnership with automaker Magna.

Read more
Ram resurrects 1500 Express trim as an affordable option
ram 1500 express return affordable 2026

Ram is revving up excitement with the return of an old favorite—the 2026 Ram 1500 Express. Reintroduced as a more affordable option in the full-size truck lineup, the Express trim brings back a combination of rugged style, respectable performance, and most importantly, a price tag that won’t send buyers running for the hills.

Starting at $41,105 for the base Quad Cab configuration (and just under $45,000 for the Crew Cab), the new Express offers a budget-friendly alternative in a market where full-size trucks can easily cross the $60,000 mark.

Read more
Jeep Compass EV breaks cover—but will it come to the U.S.?
jeep compass ev us newjeepcompassfirsteditionhawaii  4

Jeep just pulled the wraps off the all-new Compass EV, and while it’s an exciting leap into the electric future, there's a catch—it might not make it to the U.S. anytime soon.
This is a brand new electric version of the Jeep Compass, and being built on Stellantis' STLA platform—the same architecture underpinning models like the Peugeot E-3008 and E-5008—it looks much slicker and packs a lot more inside than previous versions of the Compass.
Let’s start with what’s cool: the new Compass EV is packing up to 404 miles of range on a single charge, a 74 kWh battery, and fast-charging that gets you from 20% to 80% in about 30 minutes. Not bad for a compact SUV with Jeep's badge on the nose.
There are two versions: a front-wheel-drive model with 213 horsepower and a beefier all-wheel-drive version with 375 horsepower. That AWD setup isn’t just for looks—it can handle 20% inclines even without front traction, and comes with extra ground clearance and better off-road angles. In short, it’s still a Jeep.
The design's been refreshed too, and inside you’ll find the kind of tech and comfort you’d expect in a modern EV—sleek, smart, and ready for both city streets and dirt trails.
But here’s the thing: even though production starts soon in Italy, Jeep hasn’t said whether the Compass EV is coming to America. And the signs aren’t promising.
Plans to build it in Canada were recently put on hold, with production now delayed until at least early 2026. Some of that might have to do with possible U.S. tariffs on Canadian and Mexican vehicles—adding a layer of uncertainty to the whole rollout.
According to Kelley Blue Book, a Stellantis spokesperson confirmed that the company has “temporarily paused work on the next-generation Jeep Compass, including activities at” the Canadian plant that was originally meant to build the model. They added that Stellantis is “reassessing its product strategy in North America” to better match customer needs and demand for different powertrain options.
So while Europe and other markets are gearing up to get the Compass EV soon, American drivers might be left waiting—or miss out entirely.
That’s a shame, because on paper, this electric Jeep hits a lot of sweet spots. Let’s just hope it finds a way over here.

Read more