BMW | New Models | Motoring News
BMW is preparing to launch its fifth-generation X5 in 2027, bringing a striking new design, advanced technology and a choice of five different powertrain systems. In a market increasingly dominated by the electric vehicle debate, the German manufacturer is taking a notably flexible approach to the future of premium motoring.
The new X5 will become the first BMW model engineered to accommodate five different propulsion technologies across its global line-up, including hydrogen fuel-cell power.
For British motorists, the initial range will include diesel, plug-in hybrid and fully electric versions, with the first examples expected to arrive in spring 2027.
Perhaps the biggest headline is the arrival of the first all-electric BMW iX5, offering a claimed driving range of up to 525 miles and ultra-rapid charging capability.
But there is rather more to this new BMW than its electric credentials.
A familiar BMW with a very different future
When the original BMW X5 appeared in 1999, it helped establish a new direction for the premium SUV market.
BMW described its newcomer as a Sports Activity Vehicle rather than a conventional off-roader, placing greater emphasis on road performance, driving enjoyment and the qualities traditionally associated with the marque.
More than a quarter of a century later, the X5 remains one of BMW’s most recognisable models.
The fifth generation represents another significant turning point, introducing the manufacturer’s Neue Klasse design philosophy while accommodating an unusually broad selection of powertrain technologies.
The exterior adopts a more contemporary appearance, with distinctive double-X daytime running lights, new BMW Winglet door handles and optional automatic soft-close doors.
Buyers will be offered eleven exterior paint finishes, while alloy wheel sizes will extend to 23 inches.
M Sport, M Sport Pro and M Performance derivatives will provide additional visual differentiation for those seeking a more sporting appearance.
Although the styling marks a departure from earlier generations, BMW is clearly aiming to retain the X5’s established premium character.
Five powertrains – one BMW X5
Arguably the most interesting aspect of the new X5 is BMW’s decision not to concentrate exclusively on battery-electric propulsion.
Instead, the vehicle has been engineered to accommodate five different drive technologies across its global range.
That is a significant statement from one of Europe’s most influential premium car manufacturers.
For UK customers, diesel, plug-in hybrid and fully electric models will be available from launch.
Hydrogen fuel-cell technology also forms part of the X5’s longer-term global programme, although BMW has not provided a UK launch date or pricing for a hydrogen version in the information released.
The fifth powertrain category has likewise not been detailed in the supplied UK announcement.
This multi-technology strategy could prove particularly attractive to customers who want the latest vehicle technology without necessarily committing to a fully electric car.
For drivers covering substantial motorway distances, diesel power may remain appealing. Those with access to home charging could favour the plug-in hybrid, while the fully electric iX5 promises considerable range and performance potential.
Rather than forcing every customer towards the same solution, BMW is leaving several doors open.
BMW iX5 brings electric motoring into long-distance territory
The new BMW iX5 60 xDrive is likely to attract considerable attention, not least because of its claimed WLTP range of up to 525 miles.
That figure would place it among the longest-range electric SUVs on the market, although real-world performance will inevitably depend on driving conditions, speed, temperature and equipment.
BMW has also introduced an 800-volt electrical architecture, supporting DC charging at up to 460 kW when connected to a suitably capable charger.
The combination of substantial range and high charging capability should make the iX5 particularly interesting to drivers who regularly undertake longer journeys.
However, maximum charging speeds are only part of the picture. The availability of compatible public charging infrastructure, charging curves and real-world energy consumption will ultimately determine how convenient the vehicle proves to be.
The electric model also benefits from BMW’s new Heart of Joy electronic control system, designed to coordinate important driving functions and deliver the responsive characteristics associated with the marque.
Whether the electric X5 can reproduce the familiar driving qualities of its combustion-engined predecessors will be an important question when independent road tests begin.
A completely new approach to the interior
Inside, the fifth-generation X5 introduces BMW Panoramic iDrive, bringing a substantially revised approach to driver information and vehicle controls.
The cabin also features new material choices, including slate, alongside an optional BMW Passenger Screen.
Together, these developments suggest an interior designed around digital technology, personalisation and a more contemporary interpretation of luxury.
There is, however, an important balance to be struck.
BMW has traditionally appealed to drivers who appreciate a well-designed cockpit, clear instrumentation and controls that are intuitive to operate.
As manufacturers increasingly replace conventional switches with digital interfaces, the real test will be whether the new system improves everyday usability rather than simply adding another layer of technology.
Driving dynamics remain central to the X5
Despite the technological changes, BMW is emphasising that driving dynamics remain a central part of the new model’s character.
Adaptive suspension will be fitted as standard, accompanied by advanced driver assistance systems.
The all-electric iX5 also introduces the Heart of Joy control architecture, part of BMW’s latest generation of integrated vehicle electronics.
The X5 has traditionally occupied an interesting position within the premium SUV market, combining family practicality and long-distance comfort with handling intended to feel more car-like than that of a conventional large off-roader.
Maintaining that balance will be particularly important as the model expands to accommodate increasingly different propulsion systems.
Built in America, destined for Britain
Production of the new X5 will take place at BMW Group Plant Spartanburg in South Carolina, United States.
Known within BMW as the Home of X, Spartanburg has become an important centre for the company’s Sports Activity Vehicle production.
UK deliveries of the all-electric, diesel and plug-in hybrid models are scheduled to begin in spring 2027.
BMW has confirmed the following starting prices.
| Model | UK OTR price |
|---|---|
| BMW iX5 60 xDrive – Electric | £85,375 |
| BMW X5 40d xDrive – Diesel | £85,885 |
| BMW X5 50e xDrive – Plug-in Hybrid | £86,870 |
One particularly interesting detail is the relatively small difference between the three entry prices.
At £85,375, the fully electric iX5 actually starts £510 below the diesel X5 40d xDrive, while the plug-in hybrid costs £1,495 more than the electric model.
That could make the decision between powertrain technologies more dependent on driving requirements, charging access and running costs than the initial purchase price alone.
The Motoring Echo Verdict
BMW’s fifth-generation X5 is interesting for reasons that extend well beyond its new styling and impressive electric range.
At a time when some manufacturers have concentrated heavily on an all-electric future, BMW appears determined to maintain a broader range of choices for its customers.
That approach makes considerable sense.
Not every motorist has access to convenient charging, and not every driving requirement can be satisfied equally well by the same powertrain.
The new iX5’s claimed 525-mile range and 460 kW charging capability are impressive on paper, while the continued availability of diesel and plug-in hybrid models should reassure existing X5 customers.
Hydrogen technology adds another intriguing dimension, although its longer-term commercial viability remains to be demonstrated.
From a traditional motoring perspective, the biggest question is whether the new X5 will retain the driving character, comfort and understated quality that helped establish the model’s reputation.
The technology may be changing, but the expectations of a BMW driver remain remarkably familiar.
If BMW can combine its traditional engineering strengths with genuine powertrain choice, the new X5 could become one of the most significant premium SUV launches of 2027.
