The new BMW X5
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The fifth-generation BMW X5 has arrived, and it’s a significant one — it marks the first time BMW is offering five distinct drivetrain options on a single model line, while also bringing Neue Klasse design language and technology to its best-selling SAV.
Since debuting in 1999, the X5 effectively created the Sports Activity Vehicle segment, and BMW has kept it at the top ever since. This new generation pushes that further by spreading across petrol and diesel variants with 48V mild hybrid support, plug-in hybrids, the fully electric BMW iX5, and eventually the BMW iX5 Hydrogen, which will follow as BMW’s first hydrogen-powered production model.
The iX5 Hydrogen pairs a third-generation fuel cell system with a new Hydrogen Flat Storage setup and a supporting high-voltage battery, delivering a range of up to 750 km in a notably compact package. Meanwhile, the battery-electric iX5 introduces BMW’s sixth-generation eDrive technology, with the iX5 60 xDrive capable of up to 845 km on a charge. It also gains 800V architecture, fast charging, and bidirectional charging capability, enabled by new 120mm cylindrical battery cells making their debut in this model.
BMW’s development board member Dr. Joachim Post said the new X5 builds on the model’s reputation for combining comfort and driving pleasure, now reinforced with Neue Klasse technology and the broadest drivetrain choice BMW has ever offered on one model.
Design-wise, the new X5 leans into a more upright front end, a vertical kidney grille with Iconic Glow, and new “double-X” lighting graphics — a first for the brand. The side profile is defined by the Winglets, BMW’s new flush door handles that open with a light touch thanks to electric door operation. Buyers get eleven exterior colors and wheels up to 23 inches, while the M60e xDrive gets its own visual treatment as the range-topping performance variant.
BMW is also rolling out M Performance Parts for the X5, including a carbon fibre front splitter, a gloss black roof spoiler, an aramid rear diffuser, aramid mirror caps, and both summer and winter M Performance wheel sets in 21- and 23-inch sizes, plus M Performance floor mats for the cabin.
Inside, the cabin carries over Neue Klasse elements including the BMW Panoramic iDrive display, the free-standing Central Display, a 3D Head-Up Display, an available Passenger Screen — a first for the X5 — and Panoramic Vision projected across the full width of the windscreen. BMW is also introducing slate as a decorative surface option, a first for any carmaker, alongside glass trim finishes. An ambient light strip wraps door to door for a warmer cabin feel.
On the mechanical side, adaptive suspension comes standard, with axle load distribution close to 50:50. Adaptive Chassis Control Professional with roll stabilization will be offered on electric and plug-in hybrid variants first. BMW Symbiotic Drive adds Level 2 driver assistance tuned to individual driving style, and electric and hydrogen models get BMW Soft-Stop for smoother braking.
Production begins at BMW Group Plant Spartanburg in the US in August 2026, with the first variants reaching market in late November 2026. Electric and plug-in hybrid versions follow in early 2027. Notably, the iX5 will be the first fully electric vehicle built at Spartanburg, supported by a new adjacent battery plant that runs without fossil fuels.
