Updated in early 2023 for its 2024 model year iteration, the X5 underwent recent scrutiny by the Virginia-based nonprofit Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). This mid-size luxury SUV delivered as expected in various crashworthiness tests, encompassing small overlap front, moderate overlap front, and side crash evaluations.
The standard front crash prevention system received a commendable rating, the highest accorded by the organization. Similarly, the LATCH system’s ease of use also earned the highest accolade. However, the IIHS attributed only an acceptable rating to the headlight performance. Why?
Equipped with LED projector-type headlights with high-beam assistance, the X5 exhibited low beams that emitted some glare. Additionally, the IIHS noted fair visibility from the high beams on the left side when driving straight and during sharp left turns.
Despite its $65,700 price tag for the sDrive40i model, boasting both luxury and sporty features, the Bavarian automaker’s offering fell short in headlight performance. The starting price applies to the sDrive40i, featuring rear-wheel drive and a gasoline engine. It’s worth noting that the automaker plans to drop the “i” from gas-powered vehicles in favor of electric models, indicating that the entry-level X5 will be designated as the sDrive40 in the near future.