By James Stinson
BMW has unveiled an all-new fifth-generation X5, bringing one of the world’s best-known premium SUVs into a new era with its broadest range of powertrains yet – including a fully electric version for the first time.
The new X5 is also the first BMW engineered to support five different drive systems globally, ranging from diesel and plug-in hybrid models through to battery-electric and, eventually, hydrogen-powered variants.
Since its launch in 1999, the X5 has been one of BMW’s most important models. This latest version aims to build on that success with fresh styling, new technology and a stronger focus on electrification, while retaining the blend of comfort, practicality and driver appeal that has made it a favourite with family buyers.
A bolder look
The new X5 adopts BMW’s latest Neue Klasse design language, giving the large SUV a cleaner and more upright appearance.
At the front, there’s a reworked kidney grille and new ‘double-X’ daytime running lights, while the side profile features muscular wheel arches, a sweeping roofline and distinctive new BMW Winglet door handles. Buyers can even specify electrically powered doors with soft-close functionality.
The rear receives full-width lighting elements and aerodynamic improvements designed to boost efficiency, particularly important on the electric models.
BMW says customers will be able to personalise their X5 with eleven exterior paint finishes and alloy wheels ranging up to 23 inches in size.
Electric headline act
Perhaps the biggest news is the arrival of the first-ever all-electric BMW iX5.
The range-topping iX5 60 xDrive uses BMW’s latest sixth-generation battery technology and produces 578hp from a twin-motor setup. BMW claims a remarkable WLTP driving range of up to 525 miles, placing it among the longest-range electric SUVs currently announced.
The 141kWh battery supports ultra-fast DC charging at up to 460kW thanks to an 800-volt electrical architecture. Under ideal conditions, that should make long-distance travel significantly easier than in many current electric rivals.
Performance is suitably brisk too, with 0-62mph dispatched in just 4.6 seconds.
Diesel and plug-in hybrids remain
For buyers not yet ready to go fully electric, BMW will continue to offer diesel and plug-in hybrid alternatives.
The X5 40d xDrive uses a 3.0-litre six-cylinder diesel engine assisted by 48V mild-hybrid technology. It develops 313bhp and a hefty 670Nm of torque, helping it combine strong towing and long-distance credentials with improved efficiency.
Two plug-in hybrid models will also be available. The X5 50e xDrive produces 489hp, while the flagship X5 M60e xDrive delivers a substantial 612bhp and 800Nm of torque. The latter can sprint from 0-62mph in just 4.5 seconds, making it one of the quickest X5s ever offered.
Both plug-in hybrids can travel for more than 60 miles on electric power alone according to official figures.
Luxury and technology
Inside, the cabin has been completely redesigned around BMW’s latest Panoramic iDrive system. A panoramic display, head-up display and central touchscreen form the backbone of the new setup, while an optional passenger screen makes its debut in the X5.
Standard equipment includes a panoramic glass roof and sports seats, while higher-specification M Sport, M Sport Pro and M Performance models add increasingly aggressive styling and equipment upgrades.
BMW claims the new X5 also sets a benchmark for driving dynamics, with adaptive suspension fitted as standard and a new generation of driver assistance systems available.
Prices and availability
BMW has confirmed that UK sales of the electric, diesel and plug-in hybrid X5 range will begin in spring 2027.
Prices have not yet been announced, although the new model is expected to sit above today’s X5 range.