BMW has unveiled the fifth-generation ‘G65’ X5 for 2027, introducing a fresh design, an overhauled interior and a wider range of powertrains that will eventually include the first fully electric version of the large luxury SUV.
The latest X5 adopts BMW’s Neue Klasse design philosophy, like the latest iX3, moving to a more upright front end, flush door handles and a larger interpretation of the brand’s kidney grille. New adaptive LED headlights feature a double-X daytime running light signature (no more twin circular theme), while wheel sizes range from 21 to 23 inches. BMW will offer 11 exterior paint colours globally, including four BMW Individual finishes.
Inside, the cabin receives its biggest overhaul since the current-generation model arrived. A new BMW Panoramic Vision display projects information across the base of the windscreen, working alongside a 3D head-up display and a 17.9-inch central touch-screen running BMW Operating System X.
A passenger display also joins the dashboard for the first time in the X5, allowing the front-seat occupant to access entertainment and other functions independently of the main infotainment screen. BMW says the latest version of its Intelligent Personal Assistant has also been upgraded with expanded AI capability.
The company is continuing its multi-powertrain strategy with petrol, diesel, plug-in hybrid and fully electric options. Headlining the range is the new BMW iX5 60 xDrive, which becomes the first battery-electric X5. It uses BMW’s sixth-generation electric drive technology and an 800-volt electrical architecture and up to 144kWh battery, with twin motors producing 425kW and 805Nm. BMW claims a 0-100km/h time of 4.6 seconds, a WLTP driving range of up to 845km and DC charging capability of up to 460kW.
A plug-in hybrid X5 50e xDrive will also be offered, with combined outputs of 360kW and an electric-only driving range of up to 102km under the WLTP test cycle. Conventional combustion-engine fans are not being left behind, with the 3.0-litre inline-six petrol and diesel engines both featuring 48-volt mild-hybrid assistance continuing.
In overseas spec, the X5 40 xDrive produces 294kW and 540Nm, good for 0-100km/h in a claimed 5.3 seconds, while the X5 40 xDrive develops 210kW and 650Nm, plus 7kW from the mild-hybrid e-motor. BMW claims 0-100km/h is dispatched in 6.1 seconds, matching the current model.
There’s also an X5 M60e xDrive variant being launched in some markets, combining the 3.0-litre inline-six petrol with an electric motor adding 145kW and 280Nm. Combined, the system generates an impressive 450kW and 800Nm, which is enough to see 0-100km/h dusted in 4.5 seconds.
Although based on the same CLAR platform as now, BMW says it has applied revisions underneath, including updated suspension and chassis technology aimed at improving ride comfort and handling. The electric iX5 introduces new electronic control systems, branded Symbiotic Drive and Heart of Joy, designed to improve acceleration, braking and overall vehicle responses.
Boot space is rated at 655L, expanding to 1850L with the rear seats folded down, in the case of the X5 40. That’s only a minor change from the equivalent current model’s boot size of 650L/1870L.
Production will begin at BMW’s Spartanburg plant in the United States from August 2026. Combustion-powered models are due to reach global markets later this year, while plug-in hybrid and battery-electric versions are scheduled to arrive during early 2027.
Australian deliveries of the new X5 40 xDrive petrol and X5 40d xDrive diesel are scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of 2026, with local pricing and detailed specifications due to be announced during the third quarter. Plug-in hybrid and battery-electric variants, including the new iX5, are expected to follow in 2027.
