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Suv Showdown: Ford Explorer Vs Bmw X5 – Which One Reigns Supreme?

Mike has spent over 15 years working in the automotive industry and is a lifelong Ford truck guy. He currently drives a 2018 Ford F-150 Lariat that he enjoys customizing on the weekends. As editor of wheelsgeeks.com, Mike focuses on sharing his passion for Blue Oval vehicles through reviews, how-to...

What To Know

  • The Ford Explorer and BMW X5 are two of the most popular SUVs on the market, offering a blend of luxury, performance, and practicality.
  • In contrast, the X5 showcases a more refined and elegant design, with a sleek profile, flowing lines, and a luxurious aura.
  • The Explorer has earned a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

The Ford Explorer and BMW X5 are two of the most popular SUVs on the market, offering a blend of luxury, performance, and practicality. Both vehicles have their own strengths and weaknesses, making it difficult to decide which one is the better choice. To help you make an informed decision, this comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of the Ford Explorer and BMW X5, including their design, performance, features, safety, and price.

Design

The Ford Explorer and BMW X5 have distinct design philosophies. The Explorer exudes a rugged and muscular stance, with a bold grille, sharp lines, and a commanding presence. In contrast, the X5 showcases a more refined and elegant design, with a sleek profile, flowing lines, and a luxurious aura.

Performance

When it comes to performance, the Ford Explorer and BMW X5 offer different driving experiences. The Explorer is powered by a range of engines, including a 2.3-liter EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder, a 3.0-liter EcoBoost twin-turbocharged V6, and a 3.3-liter hybrid V6. These engines deliver ample power and torque, providing a responsive and engaging driving experience.

The BMW X5, on the other hand, offers a more exhilarating performance. It is equipped with a powerful 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine that generates impressive horsepower and torque. The X5 also boasts a sophisticated suspension system that ensures a smooth and controlled ride, even on challenging terrains.

Features

The Ford Explorer and BMW X5 come loaded with a wide array of features to enhance comfort, convenience, and connectivity. The Explorer features a spacious cabin with ample seating for up to seven passengers. It also offers a user-friendly infotainment system with a large touchscreen display, navigation, and smartphone integration.

The BMW X5 takes luxury and technology to the next level. It boasts a beautifully crafted interior with premium materials and cutting-edge technology. The X5’s infotainment system is intuitive and feature-rich, offering a wide range of entertainment, communication, and navigation options.

Safety

Both the Ford Explorer and BMW X5 have received high safety ratings from reputable organizations. The Explorer has earned a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

The BMW X5 has also received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS. It comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking.

Price

The Ford Explorer has a starting price of $33,245, while the BMW X5 starts at $60,600. The price difference is significant, but it reflects the different levels of luxury, performance, and features offered by each vehicle.

Which One Is Right for You?

The Ford Explorer is an excellent choice for those seeking a spacious, affordable, and capable SUV. It offers a comfortable ride, a variety of engine options, and a plethora of features. The BMW X5, on the other hand, is the ultimate choice for those who prioritize luxury, performance, and advanced technology. It delivers an exhilarating driving experience, a sumptuous interior, and a comprehensive suite of safety features.

Takeaways

Ultimately, the decision between the Ford Explorer and BMW X5 depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize affordability, practicality, and a spacious cabin, the Explorer is an excellent choice. If you seek luxury, performance, and cutting-edge technology, the X5 is the way to go. No matter which vehicle you choose, you’re sure to enjoy a rewarding driving experience.

What You Need to Know

Q: Which vehicle has a better fuel economy?
A: The Ford Explorer offers better fuel economy than the BMW X5. The Explorer’s 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine achieves up to 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, while the X5’s 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine gets up to 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.

Q: Which vehicle has more cargo space?
A: The Ford Explorer offers more cargo space than the BMW X5. Behind the second row of seats, the Explorer provides 18.2 cubic feet of cargo space, which expands to 87.8 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded down. The X5 offers 17.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and 59.6 cubic feet with the second row folded down.

Q: Which vehicle has a better warranty?
A: The Ford Explorer comes with a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. The BMW X5 offers a four-year/50,000-mile basic warranty and a 12-year/unlimited-mile corrosion warranty.

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Mike Sullivan

Mike has spent over 15 years working in the automotive industry and is a lifelong Ford truck guy. He currently drives a 2018 Ford F-150 Lariat that he enjoys customizing on the weekends. As editor of wheelsgeeks.com, Mike focuses on sharing his passion for Blue Oval vehicles through reviews, how-to guides and industry news updates. When he's not writing about Ford, you can find Mike cheering on his favorite NFL team at the local pub on game days.
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