Since the launch of the X5 in 1999 (as the first SUV created by BMW), it has always fit into a few categories. As a larger SUV, it has been a success with BMW owners who wanted more space than a 5 Series allowed. It also demonstrated that you could have a high-performance SUV rivaling Range Rover.
The X5 still sits near the top of the BMW range as a luxury vehicle and features some of the most advanced technology available on a modern family car. Finally, it’s fully capable as an off-road vehicle.
These factors make the X5 difficult to define correctly, but it’s a working formula, with over 2 million sold since its launch. As a result of that popularity, BMW has created a variety of accessories for the X5. There is a lot to choose from, but let’s run through some of the best here…
X5 Accessories
BMW’s official accessories for the X5 fall into a few categories. Official accessories include changes and upgrades to
- Exterior styling
- Interior styling
- Technology upgrades
- Practicality upgrades
- Wheel changes and accessories
I will leave out any safety accessories, such as first aid kits and emergency battery chargers, as these items shouldn’t be treated as optional benefits. With that out the way, we’ll look at each accessory’s benefits and their value for money. Let’s get started!
All-Weather Floor Mats
Starting with a simple one here. If you’re going to use your X5 for offroading or you do a lot of driving with passengers, these are a must. Mats aren’t the most glamorous accessory to start with, but you’ll need them if you’re used to people bringing the outdoors into your car.
BMW offers a few different choices of mats for the X5. The best, in my opinion, are the All-Weather Floor Mats priced at $115 from BMW USA. They are easy to clean and will put up with whatever you can throw at them.
Snow Chains
A more specific accessory here. Most owners won’t need to worry about snow, but if you need to use your X5 in extreme conditions, these will make a difference.
You won’t suffer in the snow too much compared to other BMW models, but if you’re an X5 owner with larger alloys and low-profile tires, you might want to think about these. BMW X5 official snow chains are $591 and will fit most 19 or 20-inch alloys.
M Performance Stainless Steel Pedals
Next up is an accessory for the X5 I think everyone should go for. These stainless steel pedals are easier to clean than the standard plastic option. In my opinion, they look better for a luxury performance vehicle too.
Considering the vehicle cost, I’m disappointed they aren’t standard on the X5. The pedals are expensive at $169, and I can see that price tag putting owners off. If you can get them added with a discount, though, it’s worth a purchase.
Battery Chargers
Battery chargers are an accessory every owner should have. The two BMW chargers available come in at $99 and $159, with minor differences in performance.
A battery charger is just one of those essential accessories you might never use, but you must have one. Even if your X5 is brand new, there is always that risk of leaving a light on in the car and running the battery low, and you don’t want the hassle of jump-starting from another vehicle. Get one of these, and you’ll be covered.
Roof Box / Roof Bars
You probably expected this to be high on the list, but if not, let me run through why a roof box (or just the bars) is perhaps the best X5 accessory.
First off, with the interior quality on X5 models, do you want to be transporting anything that could damage the interior, even if it comfortably fits in the car? I’ve seen a similar SUV with damaged headrests from transporting some furniture, which could have gone on roof bars instead.
A roof box will always be helpful for any long trips or family drives. The X5 isn’t short of trunk space, but it will always help; having that backup option to carry more oversized items like bikes will always come in handy.
Price-wise, BMW offers a few options, from roof bars only (at $380) to a 520L roof box at $1,200. You can also buy additional accessories, including a bike carrier for the roof bars. These options are expensive, but anyone using their X5 for family vacations or regular outdoor trips will get their money’s worth here.
Summary
If you’re an X5 owner or looking to buy, I hope the above has helped. These are optional accessories, and there are plenty of alternatives at lower prices from other brands. It’s good to know what BMW offers. Suppose you’re interested in any of these. In that case, visiting your local dealership is worth seeing their offers and checking online for BMW deals.
If you’d like to find out more about the accessories and options BMW offers, check out the below:
The BMW Luxury Seating Package Explained
Which BMW Models Have Remote Start?
