2025 Jeep Wrangler vs 2024 BMW X5

The 2024 BMW X5, last redesigned in 2019, maintained a timeless appeal, although the M Sport treatment was not universally appreciated, giving it a station wagon-like appearance. The test vehicle featured optional 21-inch “741M” wheels with staggered-width summer tires, which were considered a worthwhile upgrade despite the potential cost of tire replacement. The X5 offered a range of powertrains, including a turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, a turbo-six PHEV powertrain, and a turbocharged V8 engine, with the high-performance X5 M Competition variant. The xDrive50e M Sport specification test vehicle came with Brooklyn Grey paint, optional wheels, and all available equipment packages, priced at $88,075, including destination charges. The 2024 model received a light styling refresh and introduced the BMW Curved Display, enhancing the interior with modern technology while retaining high-quality materials.

In contrast, the 2025 Jeep Wrangler Sport S, encountered as a rental in Honolulu, presented a less favorable first impression due to its black-on-black color scheme in a tropical climate. However, the color became irrelevant when driving with the windows down and roof panels removed. The Wrangler was available in various trims, including the powerful Rubicon 392 with a 470-horsepower 6.4-liter Hemi V8 engine. The Sport S model tested had a few options, including black paint, a hardtop, a Convenience Group, and a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, bringing the MSRP to $49,175. Despite its price, the Wrangler's interior focused on functionality, with limited luxury features. Its design evoked American freedom, rooted in a World War II military vehicle, and offered impressive off-road capabilities, making it popular despite its lack of sophistication compared to modern cars.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e PHEV featured significant enhancements, including new mild-hybrid engines and an upgraded electric motor integrated into the eight-speed automatic transmission. The lithium-ion battery pack's capacity increased to 19.2 kilowatt-hours, doubling the maximum AC charging rate to 7.4 kilowatts. The xDrive50e offered 38 miles of electric-only driving, with a combined fuel economy of 22 mpg after the gasoline engine engaged. It produced 483 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, accelerating to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds. The PHEV model was favored for its balance of electric driving and performance, although a Level 2 home charging station was recommended for maximizing electric range. The adaptive damping air suspension effectively managed the vehicle's weight, providing a comfortable ride despite the large wheels. The X5 excelled in handling, with quick steering and excellent visibility, making it enjoyable to drive in various conditions.

The 2025 Jeep Wrangler offered a choice between a 3.6-liter V6 engine with a six-speed manual transmission and a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The four-cylinder engine delivered 270 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, slightly less horsepower but more torque than the V6. The turbocharged engine was more fuel-efficient, with an EPA rating of 21 mpg in combined driving. During testing in Hawaii, the Wrangler achieved an average fuel economy of 19.2 mpg. The Wrangler's design favored off-road capabilities, with standard four-wheel drive, high ground clearance, and generous approach and departure angles. However, its ride was rough, and the steering felt disconnected, especially at higher speeds. The Wrangler's rollover resistance rating was a concern, emphasizing the need for caution when driving on slopes.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e offered a spacious interior with seating for five and a cargo area that expanded from 33.1 to 71.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The split liftgate design provided a convenient seating area but required stretching to access deep cargo. The test vehicle featured Sensafin artificial leather upholstery, which was indistinguishable from genuine leather. The Climate Comfort Package added 20-way power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation, four-zone automatic climate control, and other comfort features. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed ample comfort, with a panoramic sunroof providing a great view. The X5 no longer offered an optional third-row seat, requiring a step up to the BMW X7 for that feature.

The 2025 Jeep Wrangler's high ground clearance and narrow door openings made entry and exit challenging, with step rails potentially complicating the process. The front seats were comfortable, with cloth upholstery and heated options available. The Wrangler accommodated five passengers, but four were more comfortable, as rear-seat legroom was limited. Storage space was minimal, with small items often ending up in cupholders. The cargo area, accessed through a tailgate and rear window, offered 31.7 cubic feet of space, expandable to 72.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. However, accessing the cargo area could be difficult if parked close to another vehicle or wall.

The 2024 BMW X5 featured the BMW Curved Display, combining a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel with a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The system ran BMW Operating System 8.5, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM 360L satellite radio, and over-the-air software updates. The Intelligent Personal Assistant, however, struggled with voice recognition, occasionally providing incorrect directions. The head-up display effectively conveyed data, and the navigation system included an augmented video function. Despite the voice recognition issues, the technology suite was comprehensive and user-friendly.

The 2025 Jeep Wrangler's Uconnect 5 infotainment system included a 12.3-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio preparation. The system was easy to use, even with the roof panels removed, and provided access to Jeep Connect services, including a Wi-Fi hotspot and off-road navigation capabilities. The Convenience Group added a 7-inch digital display between analog gauges, passive entry, and remote engine starting. Rear parking sensors were available in the Active Safety Group package, enhancing safety when reversing.

The 2024 BMW X5 introduced the Highway Assistant hands-free driving assistance system, which required deliberate activation. It performed well in dense traffic and at higher speeds but occasionally engaged brakes unexpectedly. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance worked effectively, although the system sometimes misinterpreted obstacles. The X5 received high ratings from the IIHS, but lower headlight ratings prevented it from earning a safety award. The NHTSA gave it a four-star overall crash-test rating.

The 2025 Jeep Wrangler added side curtain airbags as standard equipment, enhancing safety. Advanced driver assistance systems were optional, with blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert available on most trims. Forward collision warning with automatic braking was limited to the Sahara trim. The Wrangler received a four-star frontal-impact rating and a three-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA. The IIHS rated it Good for side-impact protection and moderate overlap frontal-impact tests but Marginal for the small overlap frontal-impact test.