Buying a used SUV can be a smart move, especially if you’re eyeing something from BMW. They’re known for making cars that mix luxury with fun driving, and their SUVs are no exception. Whether you want something small and zippy or big and loaded with features, BMW’s got options. The thing is, picking the right one matters—some hold up better than others, and prices can vary a ton. This list breaks down five used BMW SUVs worth checking out, from cheap steals to flashy rides. Let’s dive in and see what’s what!
In This Article:
Five Cool Used BMW SUVs You Might Want to Check Out
2017 BMW X3
The BMW X3 sits in the middle of BMW’s SUV family. It’s bigger than the tiny X1 but not as huge as the X5, which makes it just right for some folks. You can pick from a turbo four-cylinder engine, a zippy turbo six, or even a turbodiesel if you’re into that. Rear-wheel drive comes standard, but all-wheel drive is an option if you want it. Pretty normal stuff for a small fancy SUV, huh?
What’s dope about the X3, though, is how fun it feels when you’re driving. The steering’s super quick, almost like it knows what you want before you turn, and the suspension just eats up bumpy roads like it’s nothing. Watch out, though—the options list is wild, and you could end up spending way too much if you’re not careful.
J.D. Power gave it a sweet 86/100 for reliability, which positions it among the most reliable vehicles in the BMW lineup. Right now, trade-in prices float between $8,236 and $14,912, so it’s a steal if you ask me.
2022 BMW X1
Don’t let the boxy look of the 2022 BMW X1 fool you—it’s not just some boring ride. This little SUV’s got a playful side, and it’s easy to live with too. Every version’s packing a 228-horsepower turbo four-cylinder that’s got enough pep to zip around town, no problem.
Plus, it’s somewhat good on gas, getting around 29 miles per gallon on the highway. Handling’s sharp like a tack, and the ride’s smooth, which is totally what you’d expect from BMW. The cargo space is big enough for all your stuff, and the back seats fold flat super easily if you need more room.
Car and Driver loved it so much that they put it on their 2022 Editors’ Choice list. Sure, BMW’s got the flashier X2 that’s sportier to drive, but the X1 mixes fun and usefulness better in my opinion. Reliability’s solid too, with J.D. Power slapping an 86/100 on it. TrueCar says you can snag one used for $20,000 to $30,000 these days.
2018 BMW X5
The 2018 X5 is like the midsize star of BMW’s X lineup. It’s built to haul your family around in style while still feeling like a BMW when you hit the gas. Engines? You’ve got choices—a slick inline-six, a beefy V-8, a green plug-in hybrid four-cylinder, or a diesel inline-six that saves fuel. They all pair up with a smooth eight-speed automatic, and most get all-wheel drive standard, except the inline-six, which starts with rear-wheel drive unless you upgrade.
Inside, it’s all BMW class with nice materials and a simple layout that’s easy to figure out. The xDrive35i’s got shiny wood trim that looks fancy, but if that’s not your vibe, there’s aluminum or wood with cool textures too. Seats up front and in the second row are comfy with tons of cushion, and the front ones adjust every way. Long trips should be chill for everyone unless they’re stuck in the optional third row, which isn’t great. Climate control’s dual-zone standard, but you can get four-zone if you want, and heated seats up front come free—rear ones cost extra, though.
J.D. Power rates it 84/100 for reliability, and used prices sit between $15,000 and $27,000 right now. However, avoid these X5 model years.
2022 BMW X6
Picture the 2022 BMW X6 as the big boss of weird coupe-SUVs—like it started the whole trend back in the day. Other brands like Audi and Mercedes copied it, but the X6 still stands out with its sloped roof and bold attitude. You’ve got two killer engines to pick from—a 335-horsepower inline-six called the 40i or a wild 523-horsepower twin-turbo V-8 in the M50i. That V-8’s a beast, but it’ll cost you big time. Both hook up to an automatic transmission that shifts like butter. Want to go all out?
The X6 M’s got insane power, but it’s six figures, so yeah, good luck with that. Even the regular ones are a blast to drive, though. Compared to the boxier X5, the X6 is more about flash and luxury for people who want to be seen. J.D. Power gave it an 83/100 for reliability and used ones go for $44,000 to $66,000, which isn’t cheap, but it’s worth it if you’re into that vibe.
2021 BMW X7
The 2021 BMW X7 is BMW’s biggest SUV ever, and it’s got this fancy upscale feel that’s hard to miss. That giant kidney grille up front hides three awesome turbo engines behind it. Standard’s a straight-six with 335 horsepower, which is plenty, but then there’s a V-8 pumping out 523 or even 612 horses if you go for the crazy Alpina XB7. That top one’s almost double the base price, though, so it’s for folks with deep pockets.
Every X7’s got a quiet, cushy cabin loaded with luxury stuff and tech to help you drive safer. The inside’s not as big as the outside makes you think, and the power rear seats move kind of slowly, but it’s still a top dog among fancy SUVs.
Used prices start at $39,000 on TrueCar and climb to $73,000 for the Alpina XB7, which is nuts. Reliability’s decent but not amazing—J.D. Power gave it a 77/100, so it’s the weakest on this list for that.
Extra Thoughts
These five BMW SUVs all bring something different to the table. The X3 is a bargain and fun to drive, while the X1 keeps it practical but sporty. The X5 is your family hauler with a luxe edge, and the X6 screams look-at-me vibes with power to match. Then the X7 is just massive and loaded if you’ve got the cash. Prices vary a ton depending on what you want—cheap like the X3 or pricey like the X7’s Alpina. The reliability is mostly solid across the board, except the X7 lags a bit there.
Used BMWs can be a sweet deal if you pick the right one—just make sure you check the history so you don’t get stuck with a lemon.
Which one’s your favorite? I’d go X3 for the value, but that’s just me!
