What Year is the BMW X5 with a Key Ignition?

[DelAriel]

A BMW X5 with a key ignition is likely from the year 1999. Overview of the BMW X5: The BMW X5 is the first four-wheel-drive SUV model under the BMW brand. This vehicle has a wheelbase of 2975mm, a weight of 2200 kg, a top speed of 243 km/h, and features front-engine, four-wheel-drive configuration with a displacement of 2.0 or 3.0L. Advantages of the BMW X5: The greatest advantage of the BMW X5 is its exterior design, which continues the family traits of BMW SUVs, showcasing BMW's design elements throughout. Features like the panoramic sunroof and angel-eye headlights are exceptionally designed. The interior is simple and elegant, with meticulous attention to detail. The top speed ranges from 225-243 km/h (electronically limited). It employs a front-engine, four-wheel-drive system.

[Elaina]

For BMW X5 models that require inserting a key to start, I believe they mainly belong to earlier model years. Personally, I enjoy studying classic cars. The first-generation X5, produced from 1999 to 2006, predominantly used traditional key ignition without many fancy features. The second-generation X5, spanning approximately 2006 to 2013, began introducing keyless start options, but the base versions still retained the keyhole design. By the third generation post-2013, keyless start became standard equipment. Therefore, most X5 models with keyhole ignition seen on the market today are early versions predating 2006. The exact production year should be verified by checking maintenance records or the VIN. I miss this old-school design—simple yet rugged and reliable, unlike modern cars prone to electronic glitches.

[StConnor]

Speaking of the key-start BMW X5, in our repair experience, the most common generation is from 1999 to 2006, and I've handled quite a few cases. Most models come with a traditional keyhole, without those fancy push-button start features. Although the second generation after 2006 offered an optional keyless system, the basic configuration still mainly relied on key insertion, especially for lower trim models around 2010. If you're looking for a specific year, I recommend checking the door label or manual to confirm the production date—don't judge just by appearance. The old-style starting system has a simple structure and is less prone to issues, but it's important to regularly inspect the ignition coil and key slot wear to avoid the embarrassment of stalling midway.

[GideonDella]

My friend owns a 2008 BMW X5, and it still requires inserting and turning a key to start, which feels quite retro. From what I know, this design was quite common in X5 models before 2013, especially in the first and second generations from the early 2000s. It was most prevalent in models produced roughly between 1999 and 2010. If you come across one, it's best to verify the license plate number or vehicle records. Modern versions mostly use push-button starts, but the key-start models have a certain old-school charm and are cheaper and less troublesome to maintain.