2026 CarExpert Choice winner: Best Luxury Large SUV

The BMW X5 has been named Australia’s best large luxury SUV in the 2026 CarExpert Choice Awards.

It beat out two finalists: the Lexus RX and the Porsche Cayenne.

Even with a new generation just around the corner, the X5 is a thoroughly impressive luxury SUV.

An update for 2025 brought a more modern design for the spacious and functional interior, which still boasts excellent material quality. We also appreciate the fact the X5 still has a split tailgate.

There's a wide range of powertrains, including a trio of turbocharged inline-sixes: one diesel, one petrol, and one plug-in hybrid. At the top of the range is the twin-turbocharged petrol V8-powered X5 M60i.

Regardless of which X5 you choose, you get sparkling performance, excellent refinement, comfortable ride quality, and balanced handling for a large and heavy luxury SUV.

All this makes the X5 a terrific all-rounder, particularly for premium car buyers who need a practical large family car that's still enjoyable to drive.

2026 CarExpert Choice – Best Large Luxury SUV

• Winner – BMW X5
• Finalist – Lexus RX
• Finalist – Porsche Cayenne

To see all the CarExpert Choice winners, click here.

MORE: Explore the BMW X5 showroom