New BMW X5 SUV reveal midway through next year

BMW is not too far away from releasing its new X5 SUV, taking on Neue Klasse styling cues. Up against arch-rivals like Q7, Cayenne and Range Rover Sport, it is expected to come in a number of guises. There will be ICE engines, a plug-in hybrid, an electric version and maybe even hydrogen powertrains eventually. 

BMW’s xDrive all-wheel drive system will likely be included across the entire range.

A launch is clearly not too far away too because disguised models have been testing at the Nurburgring race track in Germany, and in cold weather at the Arctic. 

Before it launches, iX3 and 3 Series saloon will debut so a reveal is about a year away, while first customer deliveries will happen in early 2027.

Platform

The X5 will not use the Neue Klasse architecture but will retain the multi-fuel CLAR platform. Given the 5 Series is available with petrol, PHEV and electric powertrains, the X5 is expected to mimic this. And for some markets diesel power will continue to be available for X5 (30d and 40d). 

Motivation

As to petrol power, the base model is likely the 40i using a six-cylinder layout with mild-hybrid assistance. An M60i should also follow, with an X5 M due eventually. It will likely use the twin-turbo V8 plug-in hybrid powertrain borrowed from the M5.

But a lesser PHEV powertrain is also likely in the form of the X5 xDrive50e. It will share the 550e’s 335kW petrol-electric unit. And it should run from 0-100km/h in around 4.5sec.

As to the electric X5? Likely to be badged iX5, there should be a base eDrive40 model, and a quicker iX5 M60. The latter with 447kW is expected to complete the sprint in 4sec flat. 

As to a hydrogen fuel-cell car? Other car makers have been pulling back on hydrogen on account of a lack of infrastructure, so this X5 model is not yet confirmed.

Size

The CLAR platform is flexible so by stretching the wheelbase beyond three metres there will be more interior space and improved ride comfort over rough roads. Trick technology and next-generation damping will play a big part in maintaining its dynamic abilities.

The X5 is set to be bigger than the existing model, but the extra bulk will be nullified by mild-hybrid tech for all engines. PHEV models should do around 80km emissions free, perhaps more (100km) if a bigger battery like that in the 550e (22kWh) fits under the boot floor. 

As to the EVs, the i5 eDrive40 features an 81kWh battery with a maximum 570km of range, so the larger, heavier iX5 should manage 480km to a charge. Expect less distance from the M60 but in all likelihood at least 400km.

Styling

The Neue Klasse-inspired front end is expected, with the dual DRLs giving the model a distinctive nocturnal look. 

Slim upright kidney grilles will debut on the iX3 and will also be seen on the new X5. A black panel up front will house cameras and sensors for the car’s ADAS gear.

A wider track will help lower the roofline, while a sloping back end should aid aerodynamics. Expect large wheels and muscular haunches but conventional door handles will make way for tabs like on the Ford Mustang Mach-E.

At the rear will be a lightbar split by a central badge. A low boot lip will facilitate access to the large boot.

Tech

New X5 will be BMW’s most technologically advanced model until the X7 arrives in 2027. So it will have semi-autonomous driving functions and the latest crash-avoidance technology. 

All upmarket BMWs are now coming with the Panoramic iDrive infotainment system as standard. A main screen is complemented by a thin dash-wide panel that runs along the base of the windscreen.

Seats will probably be covered by Veganza leather alternatives. Expect upgraded stereos and a widescreen head-up display as well. Heated seats, steering wheels and cupholder warmers round out the luxury appointments.

The Panoramic iDrive will display speed, trip and range information ahead of the driver. 

A large lower touchscreen will deal with reversing duties and media/phone connectivity. 

The iDrive controller will likely not feature because of the large number of touch functions that BMW systems now employ.

Dates

BMW has said that it is gearing up to reveal the car towards the middle of 2026. Deliveries will begin six months later in Europe and it should be here before mid-2027. 

The X5 is one of 40 new or revised models BMW is set to reveal before 2028.