BMW Unveils Fifth-Generation X5 with Diverse Powertrain Options
The redesigned luxury SUV will offer choices from diesel to hydrogen, alongside a long-range all-electric variant.
BMW has officially unveiled the fifth generation of its X5 Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV), a model that has sold approximately 3.1 million units globally since its introduction in 1999. This latest iteration aims to maintain the X5's reputation for versatility, combining performance, practicality, and off-road capability.
Powertrain Variety
The new X5 will feature five distinct powertrain options in Europe, including traditional petrol and diesel engines, plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), a fully electric version, and a hydrogen fuel-cell variant. While the pure petrol model will not be available in Britain, the entry-level version will be a diesel engine. This move supports continued demand for diesel engines in the UK, where a third of X5s sold last year were diesel-powered.
The entry-level 40d xDrive model utilizes a 3.0-liter diesel engine with mild-hybrid assistance, producing 313 horsepower and 670 Nm of torque. This engine is also compatible with hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO), a renewable fuel that can reduce carbon emissions by approximately 90% compared to conventional diesel.
Two plug-in hybrid variants will be offered, each incorporating a 3.0-liter six-cylinder petrol engine, electric motors, and a 26.5 kWh lithium-ion battery, capable of an estimated 63 miles of electric-only range. The hydrogen fuel-cell variant, developed in partnership with Toyota, is slated for release in 2028 and is projected to offer up to 466 miles of range.
All-Electric iX5
The fifth-generation X5 will be sold alongside an all-electric iX5 model. This EV is equipped with a large 140 kWh battery pack, reportedly the largest fitted to a production car sold in Europe. BMW claims a range of up to 525 miles on a single charge, positioning it as a leader in its class, surpassing rivals like the Porsche Cayenne Electric and the Mercedes-Benz EQE in range. Charging capabilities are also expected to be rapid, with a potential to reach 460 kW on compatible ultra-rapid chargers.
Design and Interior
The exterior design of the new X5 incorporates BMW's 'Neue Klasse' design language, featuring an illuminated kidney grille and distinctive double-X shaped LED headlights for daytime running lights, low beams, and indicators. The range-topping plug-in hybrid model will feature yellow headlights, a nod to BMW M division's GT endurance-racing heritage. Electrically operated, soft-closing doors with 'winglet'-style handles that integrate into the door pillars are also new features.
Inside, the X5 features a wraparound cockpit with the BMW Panoramic iDrive system, which includes a driver display for speed, battery range, and navigation. A 17.8-inch central touchscreen replaces most conventional physical buttons on the upper dashboard, controlling functions such as climate settings and audio. An optional BMW Passenger Screen will also be available, offering access to streaming apps.
Pricing and Availability
UK pricing for the new X5 and iX5 is scheduled to be announced in October, with first deliveries expected in early 2027. The entry-level diesel model is anticipated to start around £80,000. BMW indicated that the electric EV variant is not expected to carry a significant price premium over its combustion engine counterparts.
