What are the exterior changes from the first to the fourth generation of BMW X5?

[CarlosRose]

Regarding the exterior changes from the first to the fourth generation of BMW X5, the details are as follows: 1. Exterior Design: Starting with the exterior design. The changes between the third-generation X5 and the second-generation are very limited, but the fourth-generation X5 has undergone significant exterior changes, with the most notable feature being the substantial increase in the size of the front kidney grille (even larger than the X5). However, this design has also become the most controversial aspect of the X5. On-site observation shows that the BMW X5 still looks beautiful, except that it takes some time to get used to the oversized front kidney grille. 2. Interior Design: The interior is packed with technological configurations and designs, such as the cool crystal gear lever (personally tested to have a better feel than the previous generation). You can see that BMW is trying to maintain the X5's former king status with a younger and more exaggerated language. The fact behind this approach is that the competitors are all formidable. Overall, the interior is more widely accepted than the exterior, but it still doesn't match the beauty of the all-new Mercedes-Benz GLE.

[LaValeria]

I've been following the evolution of the BMW X5. The first generation, launched in 1999, had a very boxy design with a high waistline, small grille, and simple, plain headlights, giving it a very utilitarian look. By 2006, the second generation became much rounder, with a larger grille and LED elements added to the taillights, giving it a more modern feel. In 2013, the third generation became even sharper, with 'eyelid' styling that made the iconic angel-eye headlights stand out, and a more streamlined body with dynamic side lines. Now, the fourth generation, starting from 2018, features an ultra-large grille that exudes dominance, laser headlights packed with tech, a lower and more sporty body, and a reduced drag coefficient, along with improved safety. The overall transformation has shifted from conservative to fashionable, appealing to younger demographics who love this bold style. I think this exterior evolution reflects BMW's strategic adjustments in the luxury SUV market, making drivers feel more confident and stylish, while also improving safety details like enhanced body rigidity. As a BMW enthusiast, I often discuss these changes with friends and am always amazed by the design team's innovation.

[Paula]

As an X5 owner who often performs maintenance myself, I've noticed practical changes in its exterior. The first generation had a smaller grille that was prone to clogging but easy to clean, though the dim lighting limited nighttime visibility. The second generation featured a slightly larger grille for better cooling, though repairs were a bit more laborious, but the LED taillights illuminated farther. The third generation's wider grille made parts harder to repair, yet the angel-eye headlights improved visibility in rain and fog, enhancing safety. The fourth generation boasts the largest grille, which accumulates dust easily and requires regular cleaning, while its laser headlights offer stunning brightness for effortless nighttime driving. The sporty body design looks stylish but comes with expensive aftermarket parts. I advise new owners to protect the grille from stone damage. Overall, these changes have made the SUV more aesthetically pleasing while enhancing driving comfort and practicality.

[BriellaRose]

The fourth-gen X5 I drive looks super cool, a huge change compared to my dad's first-gen model. The first-gen in the late '90s was boxy and conservative; the second-gen got rounder and younger-looking; the third-gen was sharper with iconic angel-eye headlights. The fourth-gen has a massive grille, a sleek front end, and streamlined bodywork that turns heads—us young folks love this modern, tech-savvy, sporty shift while keeping the brand's premium vibe.