BMW has unveiled the fifth-generation X5, featuring bold Neue Klasse styling and the first-ever all-electric iX5 variant.

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The new edition of the large family SUV is the brand’s third model to get the Neue Klasse treatment following the iX3 and i3 saloon, with the official UK market launch scheduled to start in spring 2027. British buyers will initially be able to choose between the all-electric iX5, high-performance plug-in hybrids and a traditional diesel variant equipped with 48V mild hybrid technology.

Underpinning this diverse model line-up is a highly flexible multi-powertrain platform engineered to support five different drive systems globally, including a future hydrogen variant.

For the all-electric iX5, this architecture introduces 800V technology that enables ultra-fast charging alongside sixth-generation eDrive technology. This advanced hardware works in tandem with BMW’s new ‘Heart of Joy’ superbrain, a centralised computing system designed to optimise power delivery and driving dynamics.

Available from launch, the iX5 60 xDrive features two electric motors for 578hp and all-wheel drive, giving 0-62mph in 4.7 seconds and a top speed of 130mph. The 141kWh battery offers a class-leading range of up to 525 miles (WLTP) alongside a 460kW DC charging rate and bidirectional charging capabilities. A fully electric M Performance model will later join the line-up, while an entry-level EV model is also likely.

UK customers can also select from two plug-in hybrid derivatives: the X5 50e xDrive and the X5 M60e xDrive. Both models combine the latest 3.0-litre six-cylinder petrol engines – featuring a new turbocharger – with a 197hp electric motor and a 26.5kWh battery for up to 63 miles (WLTP) of all-electric range. The flagship X5 M60e xDrive has a combined system output of 612hp and 800Nm of torque, resulting in a 0-62mph time of 4.5 seconds.

The line-up also includes the X5 40d xDrive, which is powered by a 3.0-litre diesel engine with BMW EfficientDynamics technology and two-stage turbocharging. It delivers a peak torque of 670Nm with the assistance of a 48V mild hybrid system and a combined fuel consumption of up to 40.4mpg WLTP. This model will be retested to Euro 7 standards before the UK market launch. The latest BMW diesel engines are compatible with renewable fuels, bringing reduced CO2 emissions. As an example, the HVO100 fuel used for the initial fill following production offers a reduction of up to about 90% compared to conventional diesel fuel.

Some global markets will also introduce a petrol variant of the new X5 while the iX5 Hydrogen will arrive later, completing the line-up as the brand’s first hydrogen-powered production vehicle. It combines BMW’s third-generation fuel cell system, BMW Hydrogen Flat Storage technology and a high-voltage battery to deliver a range of up to 466 miles.

All-new exterior styling delivers a “powerful, monolithic appearance” that blends classic BMW Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) proportions with contemporary Neue Klasse design language. Highlights include the upright front-end with the BMW Iconic Glow vertical kidney grille and the premiere of new switchable ‘double-X’ icons for the daytime running lights. The X5 also gets expansive soft-close doors where new BMW Winglet door handles can be used to operate fully electrically powered doors if specified. At the rear, new taillights extend across almost the entire width of the vehicle.

The cabin has been completely overhauled with clear structures and uncluttered surfaces that are optimised entirely around the driver. Natural materials available include slate, used as a decorative surface by an automotive manufacturer for the first time, alongside glass and model-specific details such as X stitching in the doors and dashboard.

The new wrap-around cockpit introduces a 3D backlit ambient light strip and sets the stage for BMW Panoramic iDrive in-car interface, bringing together the Central Display, BMW Panoramic Vision, BMW 3D Head-Up Display and the multifunction steering wheel. The system is complemented by the BMW Passenger Screen, which makes its debut on the X5 and is available optionally.

Standard interior features include a large panoramic sunroof and Sports seats with enhanced quilting. Optional multifunction seats offer ventilation and massage functionality and there’s a choice of a new range of steering wheels. Four-zone climate control, rear-seat heating and front-seat ventilation, and an 18-speaker Bowers & Wilkins surround sound system with Dolby Atmos support are also optionally available. Rear passengers get an updated Travel & Comfort system, including optional magnetic holders for attaching smartphones and other devices to the back of the front seats.

There’s also scope for wide personalisation, with 11 exterior paint choices and alloy wheels up to 23 inches. The top-rung M Sport, M Sport Pro and M Performance models also bring distinctive styling cues.

At the apex of the range, the X5 M60e xDrive comes with M Yellow double-X headlights and a striking rear spoiler. This model additionally receives a darker illumination for the BMW Iconic Glow kidney grille, which is flanked by a bespoke horizontal light signature, a front bumper with additional lateral air intakes and signature BMW M quad exhaust pipes at the rear. Further upgrades include M-specific high-gloss exterior mirrors with Seahaus stripes, and 22-inch alloy wheels wrapped in Sport tyres.

All models are equipped with adaptive suspension as standard. Adaptive M Chassis Control is standard-fit for the M Performance model, where Adaptive Chassis Control Professional can be specified, adding adaptive two-axle air suspension and Integral Active Steering. Ride height can be adjusted manually or automatically to enhance comfort or increase range, depending on the chosen settings.

Advanced driver assistance systems include BMW Symbiotic Drive that allows the driver to accelerate, steer or brake in their own style without deactivating the active assistance system. Available optionally, Motorway Assistant supports hands-free Level 2 driving assistance up to the permitted speed limit, with a maximum speed of 81mph. Standard for all models is Driving Assistant Plus – bringing adaptive cruise, distance and lane control – and Parking Assistant with AI-supported parking space detection and manoeuvre planning. Optional Parking Assistant Professional adds remote-control parking functionality via a compatible smartphone using the My BMW app.

All model variants will be produced at BMW Group’s Spartanburg plant in the US, which has been producing the X5 since its launch in 1999.

The UK market launch for all-electric, diesel and plug-in hybrid X5 models commences in spring 2027.