BMW’s best-selling SUV is getting ready for its most transformative era but. Caught testing on the German Autobahn almost a yr forward of its deliberate debut, the next-generation X5—identified internally because the G65—is already producing buzz. And for good purpose. The fifth-generation BMW X5 is not going to solely tackle the design styling of Neue Klasse vehicles, but additionally its electrified expertise.
An Evolutionary Design In contrast To The Present Technology
Even by the camouflage, a couple of issues have gotten clear. The general form stays unmistakably X5, however the particulars are the place issues get attention-grabbing. Most notably, the prototype seems to lack typical door handles. However look nearer and also you’ll spot discreet winglets hidden alongside the beltline of all 4 doorways. These small aerodynamic tabs are straight out of final yr’s Imaginative and prescient Neue Klasse X idea. Though the upcoming BMW iX3 appears to have retractable door handles, the X5 will probably take a special route.
Contained in the cabin, issues are about to vary dramatically. Whereas we haven’t but seen full inside spy photographs, sources counsel BMW is pushing the Neue Klasse philosophy onerous right here. The normal instrument cluster will disappear solely, changed by a sweeping digital projection system referred to as Panoramic Imaginative and prescient. As a substitute of a standalone display screen behind the wheel, drivers will get three fastened tiles projected straight onto the windshield’s base, with six customizable tiles stretching to the proper. The aim is to declutter the cabin whereas holding important data in your line of sight.
On the heart of all of it will probably be an enormous 17.9-inch touchscreen chargeable for all the pieces from navigation to local weather. And sure, BMW is lastly saying goodbye to the iDrive rotary controller, a staple of the model’s interiors for greater than 20 years. As a substitute, the next-gen system will rely totally on contact and voice inputs, with an optionally available 3D head-up show out there for individuals who need much more futuristic aptitude.
ICE, Hybrid, EV and Hydrogen
Whereas the tech is cutting-edge, the powertrain technique is certainly one of inclusivity. BMW gained’t be taking a one-size-fits-all strategy with the brand new X5. Gasoline and diesel engines will nonetheless be on provide, together with the most recent iteration of the 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 for choose markets. Plug-in hybrid variations will return, led by a high-performance M60e xDrive variant that blends an electrified inline-six with quad exhaust ideas and severe efficiency intent. And for the primary time, the X5 will go totally electrical with the brand new iX5. Though it’s going to trip on the identical CLAR platform as its combustion siblings, the iX5 will incorporate Neue Klasse battery and motor applied sciences (Gen6)—most notably BMW’s next-generation cylindrical battery cells and upgraded eDrive elements.
For now, it appears to be like like the electrical X5 will occupy the M Lite efficiency house, just like the iX M70, relatively than turning into a full-blown M automobile. That would change down the road, however BMW is clearly taking a measured strategy to electrifying its core fashions. In the meantime, diesel will proceed to play a job in Europe, providing a high-efficiency choice for long-distance drivers who aren’t fairly able to make the leap to plug-in hybrids.
BMW X5 Lengthy-Wheelbase For China
China will even get a devoted model of the brand new X5. An extended-wheelbase mannequin, often known as the G78, is already within the pipeline with manufacturing slated to start in early 2027 and run all the best way till the tip of 2035. BMW is aware of that markets like China have distinctive calls for, and stretching the X5’s footprint to accommodate chauffeured passengers stays a sensible transfer in that section.
As for the manufacturing timeline, BMW is aiming to begin constructing the fifth-generation X5 in August 2026. The primary V8-powered M60 variant is predicted to observe in March 2027. A full reveal ought to happen someday in mid to late 2026, however don’t anticipate all variants to launch directly. BMW will probably stagger the rollout over a number of months, step by step introducing further trim ranges and powertrains to maintain the lineup contemporary and lengthen its lifecycle.
