At 13, nothing at the start of the new millennium screamed “status” to me more than the 2000 BMW E53 X5. With its chunky silhouette and roadworthy presence, it seemed to fit squarely into a time when most status symbols and indicators of wealth were big, bold, blingy, and far from understated. All these years later, I still can’t shake the thing I have for BMW’s first yet thoughtful foray into sport-utility territory.
Originally marketed by BMW as the company’s first “Sports Activity Vehicle” (SAV), the E53 X5 changed the luxury Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) game – setting a new standard for performance, design, and versatility while offering the world “a brand-new kind of BMW.” Where SUVs of the ’90s like the Ford Explorer, the Chevrolet Suburban, and the Toyota 4Runner were praised more for their practicality and their ability to cart around kids and groceries (with more style than most minivans of the day), the X5 could do the exact same in a way that seemed more cosmopolitan than utilitarian.
Complete with a roomy interior, the five-passenger SAV also featured touches like wood grain trim, supple leather, and a quiet cabin that made for a more luxe driving experience – even if you were just running your usual neighborhood errands. See the attention to detail in another first generation E53 here.
As for performance, the 2000 X5 came with a powerful 4.4L V8 engine that produced 282 horsepower, propelling the vehicle from 0-60 mph in just 6.5 seconds with ease. The X5’s exceptional handling, thanks to its advanced all-wheel-drive system, made racecar precision and performance available to the masses without sacrificing style and substance. The SAV also featured innovative safety features and technology, including a Steptronic transmission, sport mode, hill descent control, the BMW Head Protection System, and side airbags – proof that the manufacturer had practically thought of every situation a driver might encounter.
The X5 also paved the way for future generations of high-end SUVs and crossovers – helping to drive how automakers blend functionality, innovation, technology, security, and style to develop vehicles that are both enjoyable to drive and worth the base $49,970 sticker price.
The X5’s timeless design, impressive performance, enduring appeal, and rich heritage continue to captivate drivers and enthusiasts alike, but the original will always hold a special place in my heart.
While so many things of the 2000s have gone with no plans of ever coming back, I love that I can still catch a first-gen X5 – and a bit of nostalgia – in my rearview mirror every now and again.