BMW has pulled the wraps off the fifth-generation X5, giving one of its best-selling luxury SUVs its biggest overhaul yet. The new model brings a fresh Neue Klasse-inspired design, a completely redesigned interior, and the broadest choice of powertrains the X5 has ever offered. Alongside petrol, diesel, and plug-in hybrid versions, BMW has introduced the first fully electric iX5, while confirming that a hydrogen-powered X5 will join the lineup at a later stage.
More powertrain choices, more technology, and a fresh design
The new X5 retains its familiar SUV silhouette but adopts BMW’s latest design language. Up front, it features a taller and more upright illuminated kidney grille, flanked by new “double-X” LED light signatures that integrate the daytime running lights, indicators, and low-beam headlights into a single unit. Adaptive LED headlights with matrix high beams, cornering lights, and Selective Beam technology come as standard.
The profile is cleaner than before, thanks to flush-fitting windows and new electrically operated “BMW Winglet” door handles integrated into the B- and C-pillars. Pronounced wheel arches, a stronger shoulder line, and alloy wheels ranging from 21 to 23 inches give the SUV a more muscular stance. At the rear, slimmer LED tail lamps and a redesigned bumper complete the refreshed look. Buyers can also choose from 11 exterior paint finishes, while M Sport, M Sport Pro, and the performance-focused M60e xDrive variant remain available.
The biggest story, however, lies beneath the sheet metal. BMW is offering five different propulsion options across the new X5 range, making it the most versatile X5 ever built. Customers can choose between petrol, diesel, plug-in hybrid, the all-new battery-electric iX5, and an upcoming hydrogen-powered version. The electric iX5 debuts BMW’s sixth-generation EV technology with an 800V architecture, up to 435 miles (700km) of estimated range, and charging speeds of up to 460kW.
Inside, BMW has completely redesigned the cabin with its latest Panoramic iDrive interface. A full-width Panoramic Vision display sits at the base of the windshield, paired with a large 17.9-inch central touchscreen and an optional 14.6-inch passenger display. BMW Operating System X powers the infotainment system, while the cabin also receives upgraded materials, ambient lighting, and new AI-powered digital assistant features.
Production and availability
The fifth-generation X5 is significant because it reflects BMW’s strategy of letting buyers choose their preferred powertrain instead of forcing a transition to electric vehicles. Whether customers want a traditional combustion engine, a plug-in hybrid, a fully electric SUV, or eventually hydrogen power, BMW plans to offer them all under the same X5 badge.
Production of the new X5 will begin later this year, with global deliveries starting in phases from late 2026 into early 2027. The electric iX5 will lead BMW’s next generation of premium EVs, while the hydrogen-powered X5 is expected to arrive after the initial launch, further expanding the company’s multi-powertrain strategy.
