While the BMW X5 and BMW X6 certainly have many similarities, they also have many differences. We’re highlighting the distinctions at BMW of Sherman Oaks.

Distinct Designs

At first glance, the BMW X5 and BMW X6 seem similar because of their size, but the BMW X6 is a Sports Activity Coupe. It has a sloping coupe-like style, giving it a little less rear headroom and legroom. The BMW X5, on the other hand, is a sports activity vehicle styled like an SUV.

Spacious Cabins

As we mentioned, these midsize vehicles appear comparably sized and have almost identical lengths. However, in the BMW X5, you can add a third row, giving you seating for up to seven. The BMW X6 is exclusively a five-passenger SUV.

The SUVs also provide different amounts of cargo space. The BMW X5 begins with 33.9 cubic feet, which expands to a maximum of 72.3 cubic feet with both rear rows folded flat. For the BMW X6, those numbers are 27.4 and 59.6 cubic feet, respectively.

Spirited Performance

Performance-wise, the two vehicles are identical. They are both equipped with a 3.0-liter BMW TwinPower® Turbo six-cylinder engine, which generates an impressive 335 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque. They also both ramp up to 60 mph in just 5.3 seconds.

Luxury Features

Both of the vehicles feature refined cabins brimming with thoughtful details and a high degree of customization. However, the features are deployed a bit differently, such as the Vernasca leather upholstery found in the BMW X6, versus the SensaTec™upholstery in the BMW X5.

Other features are shared between both SUVs, like multicolor ambient interior lighting and varying forms of air filtration. However, because of the differences in design, even the shared features end up feeling a bit different.

While you can’t go wrong either way, these SUVs are ultimately two very different expressions of the BMW brand ethos. To pick your favorite, we encourage you to visit us to test drive them both today!