2025 BMW X5 vs 2025 Jeep Wrangler

The 2025 BMW X5 had gracefully evolved, maintaining its distinctive proportions while incorporating intriguing details. The cab-rearward profile and rounded fender arches were complemented by arrow-shaped lighting elements in the headlights and taillights, which boasted a three-dimensional shape. The front fascia was somewhat busy, but the signature twin-kidney grille remained reasonably sized. The optional M Sport Package added sportier bumpers and a leather steering wheel, with further upgrades available through the M Sport Pro package. The interior continued the BMW aesthetic evolution, offering a sense of quality with a plainer appearance compared to some competitors. The Silver Anniversary Edition, exclusive to the U.S., celebrated the X5's 25th production anniversary.

The 2025 Jeep Wrangler Sport S, in a black-on-black-on-black colour scheme, was not the ideal choice for a tropical climate. However, with the windows down and roof panels removed, the colour became less significant. The Wrangler was available in various trims, including Sport, Sport S, Willys, Sahara, Rubicon, and Rubicon X, with the Rubicon 392 discontinued in Canada. The Sport S model featured a few options, including a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a black hardtop. Despite its price, the Wrangler's interior focused on function over form, with a grey fabric dashboard trim, metallic accents, and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The Wrangler's design, rooted in a World War II military vehicle, and its capability to traverse diverse terrains made it appealing despite its lack of sophistication.

The 2025 BMW X5 offered a range of powertrain options, starting with the xDrive40i, featuring a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six engine producing 375 horsepower and 398 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0 to 100 km/h in 5.4 seconds. The M60i xDrive variant boasted a 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 with 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque, reducing the 0 to 100 km/h time to 4.3 seconds. Both models shared an eight-speed automatic transmission and a 48-volt mild hybrid system. The plug-in hybrid X5 xDrive50e combined the inline-six with a larger electric motor, delivering a total output of 483 hp and 516 lb-ft, with an estimated 0 to 100 km/h time of 4.7 seconds and up to 63 km of all-electric range. The X5's chassis provided precision and agility, making it a pleasant driving experience.

The 2025 Jeep Wrangler's standard powertrain was a 3.6-litre V6 engine with a six-speed manual transmission, while a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission was also available, producing 270 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The turbocharged engine offered marginally better fuel efficiency, with a rating of 11.0 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving. During testing, the four-cylinder Wrangler achieved an average fuel economy of 12.3 L/100 km. The Wrangler's standard four-wheel drive, high ground clearance, and generous approach and departure angles contributed to its off-road capabilities. However, its three-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA was a concern. The ride was rough, and the steering felt disconnected, but the Wrangler's off-road prowess remained impressive.

The 2025 BMW X5 was a two-row, five-seater SUV with generous passenger space, though not class-leading. It offered slightly less first-row legroom than some competitors but provided more headroom. The X5's sport seats offered extra bolstering for cornering, and the cargo space was substantial, with 960 litres behind the rear seats and 2,047 litres with the second row folded. The split tailgate was a unique feature, providing convenience for loading and unloading. The X5's towing capacity was 3,265 kilograms, competitive for its class.

The 2025 Jeep Wrangler's high ground clearance and narrow door openings made entry and exit challenging. The front seats were comfortable, with cloth upholstery and optional heated features. Rear-seat legroom was adequate, but taller passengers needed to be cautious of plastic hooks on the front seatbacks. Storage space was limited, with small bins and cupholders. The cargo area was accessible through a tailgate and rear window, with 897 litres of space, expandable to 2,050 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2025 BMW X5 featured a curved dashboard display with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch infotainment touchscreen, running BMW Operating System 8. The iDrive infotainment system offered multiple control options, including a rotary controller, touchscreen, voice recognition, and gesture control. Augmented reality navigation and digital key connectivity were notable features, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2025 Jeep Wrangler's Uconnect 5 infotainment system included a 12.3-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio preparation. The Convenience Group pack added a 7-inch digital display, passive entry, and a remote engine starting system. The Wrangler's infotainment system remained bright and easy to use, even with the roof panels removed.

The 2025 BMW X5 came with standard driver aids, including lane-keep assist, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and forward collision warning. The Advanced Driver Assistance Package offered Highway Assistant for hands-free driving. The X5 earned a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS and a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.

The 2025 Jeep Wrangler featured standard side curtain airbags and optional advanced driver assistance systems. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available on most trims, while forward collision warning required the Sahara trim. The Wrangler received a four-star frontal-impact rating and a three-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA. The IIHS rated the Wrangler's side-impact protection as Good, but the small overlap frontal-impact test resulted in a Marginal rating.