Hey everyone, let's dive into the 2016 BMW X5 xDrive40e, the plug-in hybrid version of the popular X5 SUV. This was BMW's first foray into the plug-in hybrid SUV market, and it's a fascinating vehicle to examine. If you're considering a used hybrid SUV, this review will give you a detailed look at what the 2016 X5 xDrive40e offers, from its performance and fuel efficiency to its features and overall driving experience. We'll break down the pros and cons, helping you decide if this luxury hybrid is the right fit for your needs. So, buckle up, and let's get started!

Overview of the 2016 BMW X5 xDrive40e

The 2016 BMW X5 xDrive40e marked a significant step for BMW, introducing a plug-in hybrid powertrain to the X5 lineup. This move combined the practicality and luxury of the X5 with the benefits of electric driving. The xDrive40e was designed to appeal to environmentally conscious buyers without sacrificing the performance and premium feel that BMW is known for. It was a bold move, and as we look back, it provides valuable insights into the evolution of hybrid technology in the luxury SUV segment. The 2016 model year was the first, so the X5 xDrive40e represented a learning curve for both BMW and consumers. The plug-in hybrid system offered the potential for electric-only driving, reducing emissions, and improving fuel economy, especially for those who primarily drove shorter distances. At the same time, the hybrid system offered the peace of mind of a gasoline engine for longer journeys. It's really cool to look back and see how far this technology has come, right? This first model year had its own unique characteristics. Let's delve into its features, the driving experience, and the real-world performance to get a complete picture. This SUV was all about providing a smooth, refined driving experience while also offering the option to operate in electric mode. That electric mode gave you zero-emission driving, which was a big selling point for many, especially those who were looking to reduce their carbon footprint or simply save on fuel costs. The combination of the electric motor and the gasoline engine also meant that the X5 xDrive40e had plenty of power for everyday driving, including acceleration and passing maneuvers. The plug-in hybrid aspect also opened up the possibility of home charging. So, you can plug it in overnight and start your day with a fully charged battery. The 2016 model definitely set the stage for future plug-in hybrid SUVs from BMW, and it provides a fascinating benchmark for how far this technology has progressed. Let's not forget the X5's interior. This is a BMW, after all, and the interior is designed with luxury and comfort in mind. High-quality materials, premium finishes, and a host of technological features make it a comfortable and enjoyable place to spend time. Let's check it out!

Performance and Driving Experience

Alright, let's talk about the heart of the matter: the performance and driving experience of the 2016 BMW X5 xDrive40e. This is where things get interesting because it's a blend of electric and gasoline power. The X5 xDrive40e combines a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric motor and an eight-speed automatic transmission. This setup provides a combined output of around 308 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque. It's got some serious pep in its step, especially when you consider the added weight of the hybrid components. It accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in a respectable time. The electric motor provides instant torque, which makes the X5 xDrive40e feel quick off the line. The transition between electric and gasoline power is generally smooth, though some drivers have noted that it's not quite as seamless as later hybrid models. The driving experience is very much in line with what you'd expect from a BMW: it's composed, comfortable, and offers precise handling. The steering is responsive, and the suspension is tuned to provide a good balance between comfort and control. You'll find that it's a great vehicle to drive both around town and on the highway. There are different driving modes available, including Auto eDrive, Max eDrive (for electric-only driving), and Save Battery. These modes allow you to customize the driving experience to suit your needs. The Max eDrive mode is particularly useful for those who want to maximize their electric driving range, while the Save Battery mode is helpful if you want to conserve the battery's charge for later use. Speaking of the battery, the 2016 X5 xDrive40e has a lithium-ion battery pack with a usable capacity that offers an all-electric range of about 14 miles. This range is sufficient for many daily commutes and errands, particularly if you have the ability to charge at home or at work. You can plug it into a standard 120-volt outlet or a 240-volt charger for faster charging times. Overall, the 2016 BMW X5 xDrive40e offers a compelling driving experience. It provides a good blend of performance, efficiency, and driving dynamics, all wrapped up in a package that's unmistakably a BMW. It's not the fastest or the most fuel-efficient SUV on the market, but it strikes a great balance, and it's a solid choice for drivers who want a luxury SUV with hybrid capabilities.

Fuel Economy and Range

Let's get into the nitty-gritty of fuel economy and range for the 2016 BMW X5 xDrive40e. After all, one of the main attractions of a plug-in hybrid is its potential to save you money on fuel costs and reduce emissions. When it comes to fuel economy, the EPA estimated the X5 xDrive40e to achieve around 56 MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent) when running in electric mode and a combined 20 mpg when running solely on gasoline. The electric-only range, as mentioned earlier, is about 14 miles. This means that if you have a short commute or mostly drive around town, you could potentially do the majority of your driving on electric power, saving on fuel and reducing emissions. This makes the X5 xDrive40e particularly appealing for those who want to minimize their environmental impact. In the real world, the fuel economy figures can vary depending on driving conditions, driving style, and the frequency with which you charge the battery. If you frequently drive long distances, you will use more gasoline, and your fuel economy will be closer to the 20 mpg combined estimate. If you mostly drive short distances and charge the battery regularly, you can achieve a much higher overall fuel economy. Charging times will depend on the type of charger you use. Using a standard 120-volt outlet, it can take up to 7 hours to fully charge the battery. However, with a 240-volt Level 2 charger, you can cut that time down to around 2.5 to 3 hours. Considering how much time you save and money on gas this is a huge plus. The all-electric range of 14 miles is relatively limited compared to some other plug-in hybrids. However, it's still sufficient for many daily driving needs. Also, the gasoline engine gives you peace of mind for longer trips. If you need to travel beyond the electric range, the gasoline engine will kick in, providing you with a total range that's comparable to a regular gasoline-powered X5. The X5 xDrive40e lets you tailor your driving experience to match your needs. If you are a person who lives in the city and can take advantage of charging at home or work, you can enjoy a significantly reduced fuel bill and a smaller environmental footprint. For the longer trips, the gasoline engine is there to make sure you get to your destination without any issues. Overall, the 2016 BMW X5 xDrive40e offers a practical and efficient package. You will get to enjoy the benefits of electric driving for your daily commute and you will also have the versatility of a gasoline engine for longer trips. Fuel economy is a key factor when considering a plug-in hybrid, and the X5 xDrive40e provides a compelling offering in the luxury SUV segment.

Features and Technology

Alright, let's explore the features and technology that the 2016 BMW X5 xDrive40e has to offer. BMW is known for its luxurious and technologically advanced vehicles, and the X5 xDrive40e is no exception. Inside, you'll find a premium interior with high-quality materials, including leather upholstery, wood trim, and a host of comfort and convenience features. Standard features include power-adjustable front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium audio system. On the technology front, the X5 xDrive40e is equipped with BMW's iDrive infotainment system. This system includes a large display screen, a rotary controller, and a variety of connectivity options, such as Bluetooth, navigation, and smartphone integration. There are also plenty of optional features, so it will depend on the specific trim level and the options that were selected by the original buyer. Common options include a head-up display, a surround-view camera system, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and a premium audio system. The X5 xDrive40e also incorporates features specific to its hybrid powertrain. These include driving modes like Max eDrive (for all-electric driving) and Save Battery (to preserve the battery's charge). You will also find displays that show you information about your electric driving range, energy flow, and charging status. Safety features are also a priority. The X5 xDrive40e comes standard with a variety of safety features, including airbags, anti-lock brakes, stability control, and a rearview camera. Optional safety features include blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and forward collision warning. Overall, the 2016 BMW X5 xDrive40e offers a comprehensive suite of features and technology that enhances the driving experience, provides comfort and convenience, and keeps you connected and informed. The interior is very well-appointed, and the technology features are user-friendly, and it's all designed to make your drive as enjoyable as possible. The tech and features offered were pretty advanced for the time, so this adds to the overall value of the X5 xDrive40e.

Pros and Cons

Let's break down the pros and cons of the 2016 BMW X5 xDrive40e to give you a clear and balanced view.

Pros:

• Fuel Efficiency: The plug-in hybrid system provides improved fuel economy, particularly in city driving, and reduces emissions. You can save money on fuel if you mainly drive short distances and charge frequently. It's a great option if you care about the environment.
• Electric-Only Driving: The ability to drive in electric-only mode is a huge plus, offering a quiet and emission-free driving experience, which is perfect for commuting or running errands. The instant torque from the electric motor makes the car quick off the line.
• Performance: The combination of the gasoline engine and electric motor gives the X5 xDrive40e ample power, resulting in strong acceleration and responsive handling. It performs like you would expect a BMW to perform.
• Luxury and Features: You'll get to enjoy a premium interior, loaded with features and technology. The X5 xDrive40e has a high-quality interior with plenty of comfort and convenience features.
• BMW Brand: BMW's reputation for luxury, performance, and build quality. You know you're getting a well-built vehicle from a reputable brand.

Cons:

• Limited Electric Range: The all-electric range of about 14 miles may not be sufficient for all daily driving needs. You need to consider your driving habits and if the range fits your needs.
• Price: The X5 xDrive40e was originally more expensive than the gasoline-powered X5, and even on the used market, the price may be higher than comparable gasoline SUVs. It is also important to consider the cost of maintenance and repairs.
• Battery Degradation: Like all electric vehicles and hybrids, the battery's capacity can degrade over time. Over time, the all-electric range may decrease as the battery ages. It is always good to find out the battery's condition.
• Complexity: The hybrid system adds complexity, which can potentially increase the cost of maintenance and repairs compared to a conventional gasoline engine. Finding a trusted mechanic is always a good idea.
• Cargo Space: The battery pack can reduce cargo space compared to the regular X5 models, but not by too much. If you're really looking for space, you might consider other options.

Conclusion

So, is the 2016 BMW X5 xDrive40e a good buy? It really depends on your needs and priorities. It's a great choice if you're looking for a luxury SUV with hybrid capabilities, and you prioritize fuel efficiency and the ability to drive in electric mode. You need to consider the limited electric range and the potential for higher maintenance costs due to the hybrid system. If you want to significantly reduce your carbon footprint and save on fuel costs, and you have access to charging, the X5 xDrive40e is a compelling option. Be sure to check the battery health and get a thorough inspection before buying a used model. Remember, it's always smart to test drive and compare different models before making a final decision. Take your time, do your research, and choose the vehicle that best fits your lifestyle and budget. Happy driving, guys!