The BMW X5 and Volvo XC90 are two of the most popular luxury SUVs on the market, offering a blend of premium features, family-friendly versatility, and modern technology. While they target similar audiences, these upscale haulers take slightly different approaches in their execution. This in-depth comparison will examine their relative strengths and weaknesses to help shoppers decide which one better suits their needs and lifestyle.
The fourth-generation X5 arrived in 2018, redesigned from the ground up to take on rivals like the Volvo XC90, Audi Q7, and Mercedes-Benz GLE. Volvo introduced the second-generation XC90 for 2015, ushering in new styling, powertrains, and the latest in-car tech. Both offer three-row seating (standard on the XC90, optional on the X5) and cater to buyers seeking a spacious, comfortable, and upscale SUV experience.
BMW X5 vs Volvo XC90
Practicality
Both the BMW X5 and Volvo XC90 offer cavernous interiors and impressive practicality for such luxurious SUVs. The XC90 comes with seven seats as standard, while the third row is optional on the X5. The Volvo also has the slight advantage when it comes to overall space.
The X5 provides ample room for adults in the first two rows, with a generous 650 litres of boot space that expands to 1,870 litres with the rear seats folded down. It also features a split tailgate and 40:20:40 split-folding rear seats as standard for enhanced versatility.
The XC90 goes even further in maximising interior flexibility. Its middle row can slide fore and aft to optimise legroom, while the third row offers enough space to seat average-sized adults - not a given in this class. Fold all the rear seats and you're left with a massive 1,856 litres of luggage volume.
While both offer exemplary practicality and family-friendly interiors, the Volvo XC90 just about has the edge overall thanks to its slightly more spacious and versatile cabin. However, the BMW X5 is no slouch in this department either.
Driving Impressions
When it comes to the driving experience, the BMW X5 and Volvo XC90 take noticeably different approaches in keeping with their brand philosophies. The X5 aims to deliver a more dynamic, sporting drive while the XC90 prioritises comfort and refinement.
The X5 offers a range of powerful turbocharged petrol and diesel engines, including a plug-in hybrid. Even the base xDrive30d diesel puts out a healthy 282hp and can hit 62mph in just 6.1 seconds - seriously quick for a large SUV. An eight-speed automatic and all-wheel drive are standard across the range.
More importantly, the X5 backs up that performance with engaging, surefooted handling thanks to its precise steering, well-controlled body motions, and capable chassis. It's one of the most rewarding SUVs to drive in this class.
By contrast, the XC90 serves up a more relaxed driving experience. Its diesel and petrol engines (including a plug-in hybrid T8 Twin Engine model) are flexible and refined, but the Volvo ultimately prioritises ride quality over outright dynamics. It handles respectably for its size but can't quite match the BMW's agility.
Where the Volvo shines is in delivering a supremely comfortable and insulated driving environment. The plush ride and hushed cabin make it an excellent long-distance cruiser. Its sheer size can make it cumbersome in tighter confines, however.
So while the BMW X5 has the clear advantage for driving engagement and performance, the Volvo XC90 counters with long-haul comfort and refinement. It comes down to priorities, but keen drivers will likely prefer the X5.
Technology and Equipment
When it comes to standard equipment levels, both the BMW X5 and Volvo XC90 are generously appointed in keeping with their premium positioning. However, the X5 does have a slight edge in terms of the sheer volume of kit you get as standard.
Even the base X5 xLine comes loaded with heated front sports seats, LED headlights, air suspension, wireless charging and a premium audio system. The M Sport trim adds sporty styling flourishes and upgraded brakes, while the full-bore M Competition models pile on the performance upgrades.
The XC90 is no spartan offering though, with all models getting leather upholstery, navigation, and a long list of advanced safety tech. Trims like the R-Design and Inscription bring their own unique design cues and additional luxury amenities.
Both SUVs also offer cutting-edge infotainment systems, though the Volvo's Sensus setup did initially lack Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration (later added). The BMW's iDrive interface remains one of the most intuitive and feature-rich systems in the business.
Ultimately, the BMW X5 takes a slight lead in this category thanks to its truly lavish base equipment levels and the sheer depth of options and upgrade packages available. But the Volvo XC90 counters with a strong suite of standard tech features and upscale trimmings of its own.
Running Costs
As you'd expect for large premium SUVs, neither the BMW X5 nor Volvo XC90 will be particularly cheap to run. However, both offer some relatively frugal options that can help keep operating costs in check - for this class, at least.
The X5's plug-in hybrid xDrive45e is the efficiency champ, with a claimed 235.4mpg and CO2 emissions as low as 27g/km on the latest WLTP tests. That translates to low VED tax and attractive Benefit-in-Kind rates for company car users. The diesel xDrive30d and xDrive40d manage a still-respectable 35mpg combined.
Petrol X5 models like the xDrive40i are thirstier at around 25mpg, while the high-performance M50i and M Competition variants will be even more costly to fuel, returning just over 20mpg. Their CO2 figures are also sky-high, resulting in expensive first-year VED payments.
The XC90's B5 diesel is the most efficient of the standard range at 41.5mpg, with the petrol B5 and B6 models coming in at around 30mpg. The T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid promises over 100mpg, though that will require favourable driving conditions.
Overall, the BMW X5 just shades the XC90 for running costs if you stick with the electrified xDrive45e model. Both offer affordable service plans, though the XC90's higher insurance ratings may be a drawback for some buyers.
Verdict
The BMW X5 and Volvo XC90 are both highly competent luxury SUV offerings that cater to slightly different buyer priorities. The X5 is the pick for keen drivers seeking a more engaging, performance-oriented experience behind the wheel. Its precise handling and potent powertrain options deliver a satisfying drive, while still maintaining a high level of premium appointments and practicality.
The XC90, on the other hand, majors in comfort, refinement and sheer versatility. It can't quite match the BMW's dynamic verve, but counters with an exceptionally spacious and flexible interior, supple ride quality and a serene cabin environment. It's the more relaxing long-distance family hauler of the two.
From a value perspective, the X5 offers a slight edge in standard equipment for the money, though the XC90 is hardly a bare-bones offering. And while the BMW's plug-in hybrid powertrain promises lower running costs, the Volvo isn't egregiously thirsty either.
Ultimately, the BMW just edges this comparison for us and if driving engagement is paramount, the X5 has the clear advantage. But for those who prize interior flexibility and comfort above all else, the XC90 makes an extremely strong case. Whichever you choose, you're getting an immensely capable, premium family SUV.