BMW X5 G05 vs Renault Koleos KOL

BMW X5
G05 · 2018 – 2023
The fourth-generation X5 (G05), on the CLAR platform.

Renault Koleos
KOL · 2016 – 2026
The Koleos (KOL), a mid-size SUV on the CMF-CD platform.
BMW X5
Pick the X5 for a luxurious cabin, strong engines and generous space in a large premium SUV.
Renault Koleos
Pick the Koleos for a roomy, comfortable diesel SUV with optional all-wheel drive.
Performance
B58 40i · Petrol vs 1.7 Blue dCi 150 · Diesel
| BMW X5 | Renault Koleos | |
|---|---|---|
| Power |
340 hp
Winner
|
150 hp
|
| Torque |
450 Nm
Winner
|
340 Nm
|
| 0–100 km/h |
5,5 s
Winner
|
11,8 s
|
| Top speed |
243 km/h
Winner
|
194 km/h
|
| Power-to-weight |
159,3 hp/t
Winner
|
92,6 hp/t
|
| CO₂ emissions (WLTP) |
198 g/km
|
128 g/km
Winner
|
| Consumption (WLTP) |
8,6 L/100km
|
5,0 L/100km
Winner
|
Dimensions & space
| BMW X5 | Renault Koleos | |
|---|---|---|
| Boot |
650 L
Winner
|
458 L
|
| Boot (seats folded) |
1.870 L
Winner
|
1.690 L
|
| Wheelbase |
2,98 m
Winner
|
2,71 m
|
| Length |
4,92 m
|
4,67 m
|
| Ground clearance |
21,4 cm
|
—
|
| Turning circle |
12,6 m
|
11,4 m
Winner
|
| Towing capacity (braked) |
3.500 kg
Winner
|
2.000 kg
|
Powertrain & tech
| BMW X5 | Renault Koleos | |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | CLAR (longitudinal) | CMF-CD |
| Drive | All-wheel drive | Front-wheel drive · All-wheel drive |
| Engine family | B58 3.0 petrol · B57 3.0 diesel · 45e PHEV | 1.6 dCi · 1.7 Blue dCi · 2.0 dCi |
| Transmission | 8-speed Steptronic | 6-speed manual |
| Fuel | Petrol | Diesel |
| Euro standard | Euro 6d-TEMP | Euro 6d |
| LEZ access | Unrestricted access (compliant under current legislation) | ⚠️ Banned from Antwerp & Ghent from January 1, 2029 |
Reliability & watch-outs
Known issues
- Transfer case (xDrive) needs maintenance
- Air suspension (if fitted)
- Cooling system/EGR on diesels
- EDC automatic: juddery at low speed
- AdBlue/DPF on short-trip use
- Electronics and infotainment: glitches
Pros
- Luxurious, premium interior
- Strong B57/B58 engines
- Light, stiff CLAR body
- Roomy boot and rear seat
- Comfortable, composed ride
- 2.0 dCi with all-wheel drive available
Cons
- High running costs
- Air suspension & xDrive upkeep
- Diesel-only
- Heavier than compact SUVs
Driving experience
BMW X5
Luxurious, composed and surprisingly agile for its size. Steering is accurate and well-weighted, body control excellent, and the X5 hides its bulk through bends with real composure. xDrive delivers tenacious all-weather grip and a reassuringly planted feel. Air suspension, where fitted, spans cushioned to firmly controlled and irons out rough roads. The B58 petrols are smooth and muscular, the B57 diesels pull strongly and stay hushed, and the xDrive45e plug-in glides on electric power. The ZF 8-speed is quick, seamless and always in the right gear. Overall a polished, capable luxury SUV that feels smaller and sharper than it is.
Renault Koleos
A relaxed family cruiser rather than a dynamic driver's car, with good visibility. Comfortable and composed for a mid-size SUV, with a soft ride that prioritises long-distance refinement. Steering is light and accurate enough for the size but lacks strong feedback. Body control is adequate, though some examples feel soft over larger bumps. Diesels provide strong low-end torque for motorway use and overtaking. X-Tronic CVT automatics are smooth once under way but can feel sluggish or noisy under hard acceleration. AWD versions add traction in poor conditions but increase weight.
Belgian taxes & LEZ