BMW
X5
Volvo
XC90
BMW X5 vs Volvo XC90: 2024 Comparison
The short answer
The BMW X5 offers power, while the Volvo XC90 excels at fuel economy instead. Choose the BMW X5 if you prioritize power in daily driving, or the Volvo XC90 if fuel economy 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.
XC90
Overall
Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on generation and powertrain. For the first-generation P28 platform (2003-2014), long-term owners express strong affection, praising its sturdiness, high-quality feel, and relative mechanical simplicity, especially in later model years with most issues resolved. For the second-generation SPA platform (2015-present), feedback is divided.
Best version to buy
For the second generation, the T8 Recharge plug-in hybrid in higher trims (Inscription, Ultra) is most frequently discussed and recommended for its blend of performance and efficiency. The Bowers & Wilkins audio system is specifically highlighted as a standout feature.
Known issues
- ⚠Software/Infotainment glitches (AAOS): System crashes, laggy response, backup camera failures, frequent need for reboots. Primarily affects 2022+ models. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Hybrid system complexity and reliability concerns: High repair costs for HV components (e.g., on-board charger, high-voltage heater), concerns about long-term durability of the supercharged/turbocharged engine in pre-2022 T8 models, and sp…
- ⚠Poor winter/snow traction in T8 hybrid mode: Embarrassingly bad performance when the gasoline engine needs to engage for traction; requires switching to Constant AWD mode. Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The Volvo XC90 is the better choice for most buyers.
It has better fuel economy on its best-equipped version than the BMW X5, based on the data above. If power matters more to you than running costs, the BMW X5 is worth a closer look instead.
Explore further
Other comparisons
Not sure which one fits you?
Answer a few questions and get a personalized recommendation.
Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the BMW X5 or the Volvo XC90?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the BMW X5 and the Volvo XC90. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the BMW X5 or the Volvo XC90?
Both seat a similar number of passengers based on our data. The BMW X5 is classed as a SAV, the Volvo XC90 as a SUV, which affects cargo space and ride height for family use.
Which has better fuel economy, the BMW X5 or the Volvo XC90?
The Volvo XC90 is more fuel-efficient on paper: 1.2-1.5 L/100km combined versus 11.5-12.5 L/100km for the BMW X5, based on the best-equipped catalogued version of each.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the BMW X5 or the Volvo XC90?
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.