Mid-size crossovers are still the best-selling class in the SUV segment. In the luxury department, the BMW X5 has a legendary reputation. It is one of the vehicles that changed the minds of buyers. Since its appearance more and more people opted for buying an SUV. But, shortly after the popularity reached its highs, other companies started to challenge. One of them is Volvo. The Swedish didn’t need too much to produce as luxurious crossover as X5. It is the XC90.
For the upcoming season, both vehicles are suffering big changes. Luckily for fans and enthusiasts, these companies are developing SUVs in opposite direction. Well, the highlights are different, but both 2019 BMW X5 and 2019 Volvo XC90 will remain in the same class. While the German company paid more attention to the drivetrain, the Swedish carmaker is evolving its autonomous drive to level four.
But, let’s compare specs, safety, comfort, and other segments of both vehicles before we decide which one is better.
2019 BMW X5 vs 2019 Volvo XC90 Dimensions
Volvo is delivering slightly higher and wider vehicle. In both ways, the difference is under 1 inch. Overall and wheelbase lengths of XC90 gain 2 inches. This is enough for the Swedish company to install the third row of seats. We won’t find it in 2019 BMW X5, although some rumors claim there is still a possibility to see it. Well, it would cause the complete overhaul of the interior.
The X5 offers slightly more space in the first two rows. On the other hand, two extra seating places are available with 2019 Volvo XC90. Of course, it harms cargo volume. But, with folded third-row seats, XC90 adds 6 cubic feet. When we fold everything behind the front seats, Volvo’s SUV can offer almost 10 cubic-feet space more than the 2019 BMW X5. That leaves enough room for towing.
2019 Volvo XC90 vs 2019 BMW X5 Specs
When choosing between 2019 Volvo XC90 and 2019 BMW X5 could be easier thanks to their engines. If buyers are looking for smaller displacement, then XC90 is a good choice. It comes with an inline-four unit. Turbocharger allows the engine to produce higher outputs. The XC90 is capable to deliver 250 hp and 260 lb-ft.
On the other hand, buyers have an inline-six motor with 300 horses and 300 pound-feet of twisting power. A 3.0-liter displacement also uses turbochargers. The bigger engine takes more fuel for a drive. Combined, the 2019 BMW X5 can return 21 mpg. The 2019 Volvo XC90 consumes 22 mpg in city drive. Its combined mileage is 25 mpg, with a highway rating of 30 mpg. The best BMW X5 can do is 25 mpg outside urban areas.
Also, buyers will choose between front-wheel drive offered by Volvo XC90, and rear-wheel drive of 2019 BMW X5. Of course, both crossovers are having an AWD as an optional upgrade. Turning radius are similar. Because of its size, XC90 needs slightly more room for a complete circle.
2019 Volvo XC90 vs 2019 BMW X5 Comfort, Infotainment Systems
It is a matter of personal impression when we compare the interior of these SUVs. Both are premium vehicles. That means a lot of comfort and only details can make one or another better. For example, the third row is optional for 2019 BMW X5. Sometimes, it is better not to mess around with something if you can’t do it right. We can call this the major downside of the crossover since it spoils overall impression. The X5 is comfortable and offers plenty of features to entertain passengers.
The highlights of the 2019 Volvo XC90 are similar. New infotainment system that supports latest smartphone integration platforms is there. Premium materials boost the overall comfort level. At higher trims, everything is at new levels.
Safety
Both 2019 BMW X5 and 2019 Volvo XC90 are one of the safest crossovers we can get. Plenty of features provide a maximum rating for both vehicles.
Other Pros and Cons
A hybrid system with autonomous drive makes difference in favor of 2019 Volvo XC90. The vehicle will offer a level four of this system. The further development promises that model for 2021 will have fully-automated drive. The SUV will be able to run, change lanes, and park itself.
On the other hand, special M package for BMW X5 makes all other mid-size premium crossovers silly. Beefed up engine, revisited exterior, and interior with more features will make it cost more expensive. But, true fans of this car will know what they are paying for. It is not easy to find a cold driver that tested BMW X5 M before. In 2019 everything will be on another level.
2019 BMW X5 vs 2019 Volvo XC90 Prices
Starting price of the 2019 BMW X5 will be over $60,000. With xDrive50i package, the cost jumps to $75,000. Top of the level, the BMW X5 M comes with a six-digit price. In the last term, these upgrades made it cost $103,000.
The base model of the 2019 Volvo XC90 will save you $15,000. But, if you want a power output similar to BMW X5, then the T6 engine must have a twin-turbo system. Such XC90 costs $56,000 in 2019. Top of the class trim level is using the special drive system with T8 powertrain and an eight-speed transmission. This hybrid SUV delivers 400 hp, but it also costs $71,000 without optional features. With upgrades, this crossover can cost up to $100k.
Conclusion
The choice between 2019 BMW X5 and 2019 Volvo XC90 could be very easy. If you are after a powerful SUV, then the German company has a vehicle for you. If buyers are looking for cheaper and more economical crossover, XC90 is the one. Again, if the amount of energy is not good, both vehicles have significant upgrade packages. Again, 2019 BMW X5 beats its opponent with M version that will have 450 hp.
On the other hand, if buyers are thinking forward and look for a something new, autonomous drive of the 2019 Volvo XC90 could make them pick this SUV. If the vehicle gets a fully autonomous system in future, then owners of XC90 is going to be in a huge advantage over the competition. The battle between 2019 BMW X5 and Volvo XC90 adds some versatility to the mid-size class.
You can read a full review about 2019 Volvo XC90 HERE. Also, details about the upcoming 2019 BMW X5 are HERE.
