BMW’s best-selling SUV is making ready for its most transformative technology but. Caught testing on the German Autobahn almost a 12 months forward of its deliberate debut, the next-generation X5—recognized internally because the G65—is already producing buzz. And for good motive. The fifth-generation BMW X5 won’t solely tackle the design styling of Neue Klasse automobiles, but in addition its electrified know-how.
An Evolutionary Design In contrast To The Present Era
Even via the camouflage, just a few 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 standard 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 12 months’s Imaginative and prescient Neue Klasse X idea. Although the upcoming BMW iX3 appears to have retractable door handles, the X5 will seemingly 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 laborious right here. The standard instrument cluster will disappear fully, changed by a sweeping digital projection system known as Panoramic Imaginative and prescient. As an alternative of a standalone display screen behind the wheel, drivers will get three mounted tiles projected instantly onto the windshield’s base, with six customizable tiles stretching to the fitting. The purpose is to declutter the cabin whereas protecting important info in your line of sight.
On the middle of all of it will probably be a large 17.9-inch touchscreen chargeable for every thing 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 an alternative, the next-gen system will rely totally on contact and voice inputs, with an elective 3D head-up show accessible 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 method with the brand new X5. Gasoline and diesel engines will nonetheless be on supply, 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 would 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 parts.
For now, it seems like the electrical X5 will occupy the M Lite efficiency area, much like the iX M70, quite than changing into a full-blown M automotive. That would change down the road, however BMW is clearly taking a measured method to electrifying its core fashions. In the meantime, diesel will proceed to play a task in Europe, providing a high-efficiency possibility for long-distance drivers who aren’t fairly able to make the leap to plug-in hybrids.
BMW X5 Lengthy-Wheelbase For China
China may even get a devoted model of the brand new X5. A protracted-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 phase.
As for the manufacturing timeline, BMW is aiming to start out constructing the fifth-generation X5 in August 2026. The primary V8-powered M60 variant is anticipated to comply with in March 2027. A full reveal ought to happen someday in mid to late 2026, however don’t anticipate all variants to launch without delay. BMW will seemingly stagger the rollout over a number of months, progressively introducing extra trim ranges and powertrains to maintain the lineup contemporary and lengthen its lifecycle.
