BMW
X5
Dodge
Durango
BMW X5 vs Dodge Durango: 2023 Comparison
The short answer
The BMW X5 offers fuel economy, while the Dodge Durango excels at power instead. Choose the BMW X5 if you prioritize fuel economy in daily driving, or the Dodge Durango if power matters more for your needs. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
X5
Overall
Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on the specific generation, powertrain, and ownership approach. For the current G05 generation (2019+), the inline-six (B58) powertrain is very frequently praised for its performance and noted reliability, with some owners calling it "super reliable" and "the best inline 6 in the world." The driving experience is consistently highlighted as a major strength, described as "performance oriented" with superior ride, handling, and road feel compared to key competitors. However, significant criticism is directed at the plug-in hybrid variant (50e), with one detailed owner report citing a "terrible" experience involving multiple, repeated drivetrain failures and extensive dealership visits.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a single "best" version. Strong, recurrent praise is directed at models equipped with the B58 inline-six engine (e.g., xDrive40i), which is lauded for its reliability and performance.
Known issues
- ⚠. For long-term ownership (5-10 years), setting aside a significant fund for maintenance and repairs is considered mandatory. A pre-purchase inspection by a specialist is critical, especially for older or high-mileage examples.
Durango
Overall
Sentiment is mixed but leans positive, with a clear generational divide. Long-term owner reports for the third generation (post-2011) generally describe it as a reliable, powerful, and practical family hauler when properly maintained. The V8 Hemi engines and the ZF 8-speed automatic transmission (available from 2014 onward) receive consistent praise for strong performance, smooth operation, and durability.
Best version to buy
For the refreshed generation (2021+), the R/T trim with the 5.7L Hemi V8 and the ZF 8-speed transmission is frequently recommended as the best balance of performance, reliability, and value. The Tow 'N Go (TNG) package is highlighted as a desirable addition for those needing maximum towing capability.
Known issues
- ⚠Water pump failure: A known issue on Hemi V8 engines. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠LED headlight/DRL failure: Complete assembly replacement required at high cost ($1,600-$2,300 USD); very common, with some owners noting water ingress in tail lights as a related issue. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Exhaust manifold bolt failure: Broken bolts on Hemi V8 engines causing exhaust leaks. Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The BMW X5 is the better choice for most buyers.
It has better fuel economy on its best-equipped version than the Dodge Durango, based on the data above. If power matters more to you than running costs, the Dodge Durango is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the BMW X5 or the Dodge Durango?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the BMW X5 and the Dodge Durango. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the BMW X5 or the Dodge Durango?
The Dodge Durango seats more passengers than the BMW X5 on its catalogued best-equipped version. Body type also differs: the BMW X5 is classed as a SAV, the Dodge Durango as a SUV.
Which has better fuel economy, the BMW X5 or the Dodge Durango?
The BMW X5 is more fuel-efficient on paper: 11.5-12.5 L/100km combined versus 18.1 L/100km for the Dodge Durango, based on the best-equipped catalogued version of each.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the BMW X5 or the Dodge Durango?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but reliability signals above are the closest proxy: fewer reported issues generally means lower repair costs over time.