BMW X5 vs. X6: which is better?
See how these two BMW SUVs compare in our X5 vs. X6 review
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By Tia Harrison-North
Last updated: 2 May 2025
The BMW X5 vs. X6 battle is one between two close siblings – they're both luxurious SUVs with a lot in common.
Though based on the same platform, the X5 has a bigger boot, while the X6 prioritises suave coupe styling.
Get the lowdown on both cars and see which is better for you in our BMW X5 vs. X6 comparison below.
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BMW X5 vs X6
Our guide will answer:
Is the BMW X5 or X6 better to drive?
Does the BMW X5 or X6 have better tech?
Which car has the better styling?
Is the BMW X5 or X6 more reliable?
What are the BMW X5 vs X6 dimensions?
BMW X5 vs X6: styling
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BMW SUVs look great – there's no doubt about it. Both the X5 and X6 give you something prestigious to show off on the roads, with the aggressive edge we’ve come to know as BMW’s calling card.
The X5 has the more classic look, easily slotting in with Range Rovers and Audi SUVs. It’s got that boxy, estate-like shape and fat grille front that you’d expect from a German SUV.
If the X5 lifts heavy at the gym, the X6 does pilates. It’s a slender coupe-styled SUV that brings a swooping roofline and a snootier front end, trimming down from the X5’s rectangle build.
BMW X5 vs X6: what are they like to drive?
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It’s probably no surprise that the BMW X5 and BMW X6 feel fairly similar to drive. There’s a range of petrol and diesel engines that aren’t all that dissimilar between both cars.
The X5 has a monster 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 engine that gives 530hp at the top of the range, in the form of the M60i. It’s obviously the spiciest model the X5 has to offer, but even the entry-level xDrive30d is far from boring to drive.
Plus, there’s the xDrive50e for a plug-in hybrid ride, offering up to 67 miles of electric range.
The big difference with the X6 is there’s currently no plug-in hybrid model on sale (as of April 2025), but there’s still ample choice of petrol and diesels. And both models offer some mild-hybrid tech throughout the range.
The xDrive30d is a tasty pick for daily driving, bringing a twin-turbo six-cylinder engine that offers 298hp.
And don’t fret – the X6 also gets its own V8 M60i. It's another 4.4-litre that can achieve 430hp.
BMW X5 vs X6: interior and technology
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It’s no surprise that the interior and technology of both these SUVs are pretty samey. Following BMW tradition, both feature a plush cabin with a real luxury feel and plenty of tech.
Both cars also get a 12.3-inch information display and a 14.9-inch control display behind the steering wheel. The curved screens improve visibility and look very, very cool.
The BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant is a nice touch, giving you the option to ask the car to do things like open the panoramic sunroof or change the air conditioning.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also included for slick smartphone connectivity.
BMW X5 vs X6: boot space and practicality
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If there’s one thing you expect from an SUV, it’s plenty of space and practicality. The X5 and X6 are in a great position to offer this, and it’s a bonus that you get luxe BMW quality alongside.
The X5 can be had as a three-row, seven-seater, while the X6 is currently strictly five-seats.
You’ll get 650 litres of boot space in the five-seat X5 and 580 litres in the X6. That switches to 1,870 litres and 1,530 litres from both cars respectively if you fold down the rear seats.
BMW X5 vs X6: safety and reliability
Safety equipment isn’t in short supply for both these BMWs, but neither have been given a Euro NCAP crash test on the most recent models.
The last and only official rating from Euro NCAP (as of April 2025) was a full-five stars given in 2018 for the X5 – an impressive stat.
Even without the official ratings, a full set-up of safety tech is a reassuring sight. Standouts include the new integrated brake system (2023 models and onwards) alongside camera- and radar-based driver assistance systems.
Our tip? Look out for models with the Technology Plus Pack when shopping preowned – this is an additional pack featuring all the safety tech you’ll need, and it’s cheaper on used cars.
They’re both reliable SUVs as well, with chatter in the forums and other reviews looking positive.
BMW X5 vs X6: dimensions
BMW X5
Length: 4935mm
Width: 2004mm
Height: 1765mm
Boot space: 650 litres
BMW X6
Length: 4960mm
Width:2004mm
Height: 1700
Boot space: 580 litres
Verdict: BMW X5 vs X6: which should you buy?
Choosing between the BMW X5 vs. X6 is a tricky spot to be in – but we don’t exactly feel sorry for you.
Both SUVs are luxurious, comfortable to drive, packed with tech and offer some exciting engines. Either will be a rewarding purchase.
Sam Sheehan, our motoring editor, describes the X5 as: “seriously classy, spacious, luxurious and ideal for taking the family on a road trip.”
The trouble is, the X6 pretty much fits that bill as well. You’ll likely find the deciding factor will be the boot space and styling differences.
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