The 2026 CarExpert Choice Awards have crowned the BMW X5 as Australia's best large luxury SUV, a well-deserved title that highlights its exceptional qualities. This achievement is all the more impressive considering the X5's imminent generational update, which promises to further elevate its already impressive status. The X5's victory over finalists like the Lexus RX and Porsche Cayenne underscores its position as a top-tier choice in the luxury SUV segment.
What makes the X5 stand out is its ability to blend practicality and luxury seamlessly. The 2025 update brought a more modern design to the spacious and functional interior, maintaining the high-quality materials that BMW is known for. The split tailgate is a thoughtful feature that adds to the X5's versatility, making it a practical choice for large families.
Under the hood, the X5 offers a diverse range of powertrains, catering to various preferences. The trio of turbocharged inline-sixes includes a diesel, a petrol, and a plug-in hybrid, with the twin-turbocharged petrol V8-powered X5 M60i at the pinnacle of the range. This variety ensures that buyers can choose a powertrain that aligns with their performance and environmental considerations.
Performance-wise, the X5 excels. It delivers sparkling performance, excellent refinement, a comfortable ride quality, and balanced handling for a large and heavy luxury SUV. These attributes make the X5 a joy to drive, a rare quality in a segment often dominated by practicality over driving dynamics.
The X5's success in the 2026 CarExpert Choice Awards is a testament to its all-around excellence. It is a practical, luxurious, and enjoyable vehicle, making it an ideal choice for premium car buyers who demand both substance and style. As the X5 continues to evolve, it will undoubtedly remain a strong contender in the highly competitive luxury SUV market.
In my opinion, the X5's win is a clear indicator of BMW's commitment to innovation and quality. It sets a high bar for competitors and reinforces the brand's reputation for delivering top-tier vehicles. As the automotive landscape continues to evolve, the X5's combination of luxury, practicality, and performance will likely keep it at the forefront of the market.
