The original BMW Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) enters a new era with the all-new fifth-generation BMW X5, fusing a bold new design with the future-focused technologies of the Neue Klasse. The BMW X5 has consistently set industry benchmarks since its launch in 1999 and this latest iteration continues that legacy as the first BMW model engineered to support five different drive systems, including hydrogen, as part of its global line-up.

In addition to a diesel model – with 48V mild hybrid technology – and plug-in hybrid derivatives, the new BMW X5 is available with an all-electric powertrain for the first time as the BMW iX5. It features sixth generation BMW eDrive technology with new, taller cylindrical cells, enabling a single-charge range of up to 525 miles (WLTP) in the 60 xDrive and up to 460 kW DC charging. Some global markets will also introduce a petrol variant of the new BMW X5.

The BMW iX5 Hydrogen will complete the lineup as the brand’s first hydrogen-powered production vehicle. It combines BMW’s third-generation fuel cell system, BMW Hydrogen Flat Storage technology and an innovative high-voltage battery to deliver a range of up to 466 miles1.

“With its imposing presence and flawless symbiosis of comfort and driving pleasure, the BMW X5 became a global bestseller,” says Dr. Joachim Post, Member of the Board of Management of BW AG responsible for Development. “And now the latest generation also benefits from the technologies in the Neue Klasse and the widest possible range of drive systems. As a result, I’m sure the new BMW X5 will set the benchmark in its class once again and write the next chapter in its success story.”

The new BMW X5 introduces an all-new design with a powerful, monolithic appearance that blends classic BMW SAV proportions with contemporary Neue Klasse design language. Elegant, reduced and robust, the exterior is characterised by an upright front end with the BMW Iconic Glow vertical kidney grille and debuts new switchable ‘double-X’ icons for the daytime running lights. The side profile features a contoured silhouette with a sloping roofline, muscular wheel arches and expansive soft-close doors where new BMW Winglet door handles can be used to operate new electrically powered doors, if specified. Wide shoulders and a recessed glasshouse – delivering improved aerodynamics and efficiency – feature at the rear, alongside intricately-designed taillights which extend across almost the entire width of the vehicle.

Moving inside, the BMW X5’s spacious cabin receives a completely new design with clear structures and uncluttered surfaces – optimised entirely around the driver. Innovative and natural materials help create a contemporary interior feel. Available options include slate, used as a decorative surface by an automotive manufacturer for the first time, alongside glass and model-specific details such as X stitching in the doors and dashboard. A new wrap-around cockpit introduces a 3D backlit ambient light strip and sets the stage for BMW Panoramic iDrive, bringing together the free-cut Central Display, BMW Panoramic Vision, BMW 3D Head-Up Display and the multifunction steering wheel. The system is complemented by the BMW Passenger Screen, which makes its debut on the BMW X5 – available optionally.

Standard interior features include a large panoramic sunroof and Sports seats with enhanced quilting, while optional multifunction seats offer ventilation and massage functionality – available in BMW Individual Merino Leather. A new range of steering wheels, crafted from premium materials, offer haptic feedback through shy tech controls, helping drivers keep their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. A Smoke White BMW Individual steering wheel can also be specified in conjunction with the Smoke White Merino Leather interior design. Four-zone climate control, rear seat heating and front-seat ventilation, and an 18-speaker Bowers & Wilkins surround sound system with Dolby Atmos support are also optionally available. Rear passengers benefit from an updated Travel & Comfort system, including optional magnetic holders for attaching smartphones and other devices to the back of the front seats.

M Sport includes M roof rails in high-gloss Shadowline, the M Aerodynamics Package, sculpted front and rear bumpers and side skirts in body colour. It also brings M Adaptive suspension, 21-inch alloy wheels, M Sport brakes with dark blue calipers and the BMW M interior design with Black/Atlas Grey sports seats in Veganza/Alcantara upholstery.

M Sport Pro models add additional features including 22-inch Trigon light-alloy wheels in Jet Black and M Sport brakes with red calipers. Other visual highlights are the darker BMW Iconic Glow kidney grille in M Shadowline, exterior mirrors in high-gloss black and M-specific bumpers with a higher proportion painted in black. Inside, M Sport Pro models receive a model-specific steering wheel design and seat belts with M tricolour stitching.

The flagship BMW X5 M60e xDrive stands out with M Yellow double-X headlights and a striking rear spoiler. This model additionally receives a darker illumination for the BMW Iconic Glow kidney grille, which is flanked by a unique horizontal light signature inspired by the BMW M “Seehaus” stripes. Also unique is the front bumper with additional lateral air intakes and signature BMW M quad exhaust pipes at the rear. Further visual flourishes include M-specific high-gloss exterior mirrors with Seahaus stripes, and 22-inch alloy wheels wrapped in Sport tyres.

Further customisation is possible via the M Performance Parts catalogue. Highlights include a carbon fibre M Performance front splitter, M Performance roof spoiler, M Performance rear diffuser and M Performance exterior mirror caps. M Performance wheel designs are also available.

BMW X5 customers will have the choice of battery electric, plug-in hybrid and highly efficient diesel engine drivetrains at launch. The all-electric BMW iX5 60 xDrive offers a class-leading range of up to 525-miles (WLTP) and a system output of 578 hp, enabled by two electric motors. Gen6 technology introduces new, taller cylindrical cells with a height of 120 mm – offering a higher energy content – a large 141 kWh (net) high-voltage battery in a cell-to-pack design, an increased charging rate of up to 460 kW and bidirectional charging capabilities. A fully electric M Performance model will later join the lineup.

Customers can select from two plug-in hybrid derivatives: the BMW X5 50e xDrive and the BMW X5 M60e xDrive. Both models team the latest 3.0-litre six-cylinder petrol engines – featuring a new turbo charger – with a synchronous electric motor with a nominal output of 197 hp. The motor draws its energy from a high-voltage lithium-ion battery, storing 26.5 kWh of usable energy to enable up to 63 miles (WLTP) of all-electric range. The flagship BMW X5 M60e xDrive has a combined system output of 612 hp and 800 Nm of torque, resulting in 0-62 mph in just 4.5 seconds.

The BMW X5 40d xDrive is powered by a 3.0-litre diesel engine with BMW EfficientDynamics technology and two-stage turbocharging. It delivers a peak torque of 670 Nm with the assistance of a 48V mild hybrid system and a combined fuel consumption of up to 40.4 mpg2 (WLTP figure measured under EU6e emissions regulations. This model will be retested to EU7 standard before UK market launch). The latest BMW diesel engines are compatible with renewable fuels bringing reduced CO₂ emissions. For example, the HVO100 fuel used for the initial fill following production offers a reduction of up to about 90 per cent compared to conventional diesel fuel.

Model Max
Power*
(hp)
Peak
Torque*
(Nm)
Acceleration*
(0-62mph)
(secs)*
Top
Speed**

(mph)
Electric
Range of
up to

(miles)*
CO2
Emissions*
(WLTP)
(g/km)
Fuel
Consumption
Combined
(WLTP)
(mpg)*
Electric
Power
Consumption
Combined*
(WLTP)
kWh/62
miles
iX5 60 xDrive 578 805 4.6 130** 525 0 N/A 23.9 – 20.1
X5 40d xDrive 313 670 6.1 143** N/A To be
confirmed
To be
confirmed
N/A
X5 50e xDrive 489 700 5.0 155** 63 136 – 118 47.1 – 54.3 13.5 – 13.1
X5 M60e xDrive 612 800 4.5 155** 61 141 – 129 45.6 – 49.6 13.5 – 13.2

*All figures relating to output, charging capacity, performance, energy consumption and range are provisional. **Electronically limited.

All models are equipped with adaptive suspension as standard and benefit from a near-50:50 weight distribution for assured and comfortable handling. Adaptive M Chassis Control is standard-fit for the M Performance model, where Adaptive Chassis Control Professional can be specified, adding adaptive two-axle air suspension and Integral Active Steering – enabling the rear wheels to turn up to 3.2 degrees and reducing vehicle’s turning circle by approximately 0.8 metres. Ride height can be adjusted manually or automatically to enhance comfort or increase range, depending on the chosen settings.

The fifth-generation X5 is equipped with a selection of advanced driver assistance systems. BMW Symbiotic Drive enables seamless interaction between driver assistance systems and driver input. The driver can accelerate, steer or brake in their own style without deactivating the active assistance system. Available optionally, Motorway Assistant supports hands-free Level 2 driving assistance up to the permitted speed limit, with a maximum speed of 81 mph. Automated lane changes are also possible, once confirmed by a deliberate look in the relevant side mirror. Standard for all models is Driving Assistant Plus – bringing adaptive cruise, distance and lane control – and Parking Assistant with AI-supported parking space detection and manoeuvre planning. Optional Parking Assistant Professional adds remote-control parking functionality via a compatible smartphone using the My BMW app.

All model variants will be produced at BMW Group Plant Spartanburg in the United States, which has been producing the BMW X5 since its launch in 1999. The BMW iX5 will be the first all-electric BMW to be produced at the site. Its high-voltage batteries will be manufactured locally at a new production plant, where no fossil fuels are required during normal operations.
The new BMW X5 celebrated its world premiere at the Home of X, BMW Group Plant Spartanburg on 30 June, 2026. The UK market launch for all-electric, diesel and plug-in hybrid BMW X5 models commences in spring 2027.

SHARE

THIS ARTICLE IS WRITTEN BY

Pedro Aristes

Author Profile