BMW X5 xDrive35i Towing Capacity
The BMW X5 xDrive35i can tow up to 7,209 pounds with a factory hitch meaning it can haul many fishing boats. Learn more here.
Written by Rob Shapiro
Reviewed by Jessica Barrett
The BMW X5 xDrive35i can tow between 6,603 pounds with trailer brakes and 7,209 pounds with a factory hitch. You can opt for the towing package, which is a class III trailer that will increase the towing capacity of your X5 to 7,200 pounds. With the X5 and the right features, you should be able to tow a small horse trailer or a ski boat.
Every SUV offers some towing capabilities, so it’s important to decide how much you need to get the most out of your vehicle.
While SUV shopping, consider a vehicle’s engine, transmission, and size as these will determine towing capacity. Of course, there are a few things you can do to increase towing capacity or to enhance the experience of towing.
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How much can a BMW X5 tow?
Base towing capacity: 6,000 pounds
Maximum towing capacity: 7,209 pounds
Engines: 3.0 L I-6
The
BMW X5
is an SUV that offers drivers safety, performance, and power. If you opt for trailer brakes, your X5 will be able to tow up to 6,603 pounds. If your X5 has a factory hitch or the class III trailer hitch, the towing capacity goes up to about 7,209 pounds. Here are a few ways you can improve the towing experience of any SUV:
- Install blindspot sensors
- Get Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow
- Invest in a Surround View camera system
- Buy an SUV that’s equipped with Lane Keeping Assist System
- Check if the X5 comes with Collision Mitigation Braking System™
Many of these features will also make your vehicle safer to drive.
Trailer hitches for the BMW X5
BMW installs a factory hitch in each X5. But you can also invest in an aftermarket hitch as long as it’s compatible. There are several options, so it comes down to how much you want to tow and the other features that are important to you.
If you want a hidden hitch, check out
Stealth Hitches
. These hitches are completely invisible unless they are in use. It uses a specialized vertical latch block that attaches to the frame of the SUV and remains hidden behind the bumper.MORE:
How to install a tow bar
How to calculate the towing capacity you need
With towing capacity, all you need is access to more towing capacity than the heaviest thing you want to tow. So if you need to tow a 3,500-pound boat, you need an SUV that offers more than 3,500-pound towing capacity. It’s that simple.
If any of the below items are what you commonly tow, then you should be okay with the BMW X5 as long as you have a factory hitch:
- Pop-up camper (2,800 to 4,300 lbs.)
- Some utility trailers (up to 5,000 lbs.)
- Canoe or kayak trailer (600 to 800 pounds)
- Motorcycle trailer (800 to 3,000 lbs.)
As you can see, the BMW X5’s 7,200 towing capacity should be more than enough for most people. If your needs are greater than hauling a pop-up camper or utility trailer, you may want to consider getting an SUV or truck that offers more towing power.
You should calculate the weight of a load only once it’s fully loaded. You’ll also need to factor in a vehicle’s weight and the weight of passengers and cargo.
How to increase towing capacity
A towing capacity of around 7,000 might not be enough for everyone. If you need extra, here are some things you can do to increase the X5’s towing capacity.
- Get better brake pads and rotors
- Reinforce the chassis.
- Upgrade to RV axles or any higher-grade axles
- Buy a weight-distribution hitch to minimize sway and protect your vehicle’s suspension
There comes a point where you might just need a full-size SUV with a higher maximum towing capacity. Some of your options include the
Lincoln Navigator
with a towing capacity of 8,700 pounds or the Dodge Durango SRT R/T
with a towing capacity of 8,700 pounds. 
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Is the BMW X5 good for towing?
Yes, the BMW X5 offers a strong maximum towing capacity of 7,209 pounds. This means you should be able to tow a variety of trailers, campers, and boats.
Can you put a trailer hitch on a BMW X5?
You can attach a trailer hitch on a BMW X5. Most models come with a factory hitch or you can look for an aftermarket one.
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