2021 BMW X5 sDrive40i
The 2021 BMW X5 sDrive40i is a SUV. It has a 3.0-litre turbocharged six-cylinder engine producing 335 hp (250 kW), with an 8-speed automatic and rear-wheel drive. 0–60 mph takes 5.3 seconds and top speed is 155 mph (249 km/h).
ABOUT THE 2021 BMW X5 SDRIVE40I
The 2021 BMW X5 sDrive40i is the rear-wheel-drive version of the fourth-generation X5 (G05) mid-size SUV. It is powered by a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six producing 335 hp and 330 lb-ft (450 Nm), with an eight-speed automatic. Unlike most X5s, it does without all-wheel drive, which suits buyers in warmer climates. It is built in Spartanburg, South Carolina.
Where this year fits
The G05 arrived for the 2019 model year with a fully digital instrument cluster, a larger central display and a much more upmarket cabin than the F15 it replaced. For 2021 the wider X5 range gained the xDrive45e plug-in hybrid, while the sDrive40i remained the entry point to the line-up, ahead of the facelift that followed for 2024.
Practicality
The X5 has room for five adults, with an optional third row available on some versions, and a split tailgate that makes loading easier. The six-cylinder is smooth and refined, and rear-wheel drive saves some weight and complexity compared with xDrive models. Optional two-axle air suspension improves the ride further.
Buying one today
Known weak points on the B58 engine include coolant leaks from the expansion tank and plastic pipes, plus oil filter housing gasket leaks. On cars with air suspension, check that the vehicle sits level after standing overnight. The X5’s extensive electronics can be costly to diagnose.
Rivals
Rivals included the Mercedes-Benz GLE 350, Audi Q7, Volvo XC90, Genesis GV80 and Lincoln Aviator.
Written by CarDetails.org. Last reviewed October 31, 2026.
SPECS
| Make | BMW | Model | X5 sDrive40i |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year | 2021 | Version / Trim | BMW 2021 X5 sDrive40i |
| Body Style | SUV | Doors | 4 |
| Seats | 5 | Ext. Colour | Alpine White, Jet Black, Black Sapphire Metallic, Mineral White Metallic, Dravit Gray Metallic, Phytonic Blue Metallic, Portimao Blue Metallic, San Francisco Red Metallic, Carbon Black Metallic, Brooklyn Gray Metallic, Individual Colours available |
| Steering | LHD / RHD | Manufactured In | United States |
| Drive | Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) | Transmission | Automatic (S8) |
| Engine | 3.0L 6-cyl Turbo | Engine Size | 3,000 cc |
| Power | 335 hp / 250 kW | Torque | 450 Nm / 330 lb-ft |
| 0–60 mph (0–97 km/h) | 5.3 sec | Top Speed | 155 mph (249 km/h) |
| Fuel Economy | 21 mpg city / 26 mpg hwy | ||
| Wheelbase | 2,975 mm | Kerb Weight | 2,095 kg (4,619 lb) |
HOW IT COMPARES WITH OTHER 2021 SUVS
Compared with other 2021 SUVs in our database, its 335 hp is 10% more than the average 2021 SUV (305 hp), and it reaches 60 mph 1.2 seconds quicker than average, and it is 9% heavier than the typical SUV.
| 2021 BMW X5 sDrive40i | Average 2021 SUVs | Difference | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Power | 335 hp | 305 hp (98 cars) | +10% |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 413 Nm (98 cars) | +9% |
| 0–60 mph | 5.3 s | 6.5 s (103 cars) | -19% |
| Top speed | 155 mph | 129 mph (103 cars) | +21% |
| Kerb weight | 2,095 kg | 1,919 kg (105 cars) | +9% |
| Engine size | 3,000 cc | 2,729 cc (87 cars) | +10% |
Averages are calculated from all cars of the same model year and body type in the CarDetails.org database that have the figure listed. For 0–60 mph, a negative difference means quicker.
CLOSEST RIVALS
Other 2021 SUVs with similar power to the 2021 BMW X5 sDrive40i.
| Car | Power | 0–60 mph | Kerb weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 BMW X5 sDrive40i | 335 hp | 5.3 s | 2,095 kg |
| 2021 Audi Q8 | 335 hp | 5.6 s | 2,085 kg |
| 2021 BYD Song Plus DM-i | 325 hp | 6.5 s | 1,755 kg |
| 2021 Tank 300 Hi4-T | 348 hp | 5.8 s | 2,250 kg |
| 2021 Toyota Highlander | 295 hp | 7.5 s | 1,995 kg |