German luxury car brand BMW globally launched the new-generation X5 on 30/6/2026. This marks the fifth generation of the X5, representing the most significant transformation since its initial debut. The 2027 X5 adopts the Neue Klasse design language and offers a wide range of powertrain choices, including internal combustion engines, plug-in hybrids, and a pure electric iX5 variant.

Exterior: Neue Klasse concept

The new-generation X5 features a distinct exterior compared to previous generations. Its new design inherits many elements from the earlier iX3 model, characterized by flat body surfaces and a grille resembling a sun visor. However, the 2027 X5 adds unique identifying details such as dual X-shaped light clusters, integrating headlights, turn signals, and daytime running lights into a single element.

The 2027 BMW iX5, the electric version of the new-generation X5. Photo: BMW

The new-generation X5 highlights its front light cluster with X-shaped daytime running lights.

Slim, wide horizontal LED taillights. Aggressive rear bumper.

The 2027 X5 comes standard with 21-inch wheels, with 23-inch wheels optional.

The new-generation X5 offers various powertrain options, including pure gasoline, pure electric, and plug-in hybrid.

The new-generation X5 is equipped with adaptive suspension as standard.

Door handles are integrated into the vehicle's pillar.

The standard 2027 BMW X5 40.

The X5 40 is fitted with a 3,0-liter I6 gasoline engine combined with a 48V mild-hybrid system.

Along the side, new door handles are integrated into the pillar, window seals are hidden, and the wheel arches are muscular. The vehicle uses 21-inch wheels as standard, with 23-inch wheels available as an option. An adaptive suspension system is standard equipment, while air suspension is optional. At the rear, the slim, wide horizontal LED taillights echo the dual X-shaped theme from the front. Overall, the 2027 X5 boasts a sportier and more modern aesthetic.

Interior: Focus on digitalization and premium materials

The interior of the new-generation X5 emphasizes both materials and technology. The vehicle is equipped with a large BMW Panoramic iDrive screen extending across the dashboard, combined with a 17,9-inch central display, a head-up display (HUD), and an optional 14,6-inch passenger screen for the front passenger.

Real slate details adorn the center console as part of the optional Clear and Bold package, complemented by glass elements on the gear selector and volume controls. An ambient lighting strip runs horizontally, and a panoramic glass roof, covering approximately 2,6 square meters, is standard on all versions.

Powertrain: Diverse options

Despite adopting the new design language, the X5 and iX5 are developed on an upgraded CLAR platform, rather than the electric vehicle-specific Neue Klasse architecture. BMW offers a variety of powertrain options for the new-generation X5, though specific configurations vary by market.

The redesigned BMW X5 interior, focusing on technology and materials. Photo: BMW

Sport steering wheel.

The 17,9-inch infotainment touchscreen.

The optional 14,6-inch passenger screen for the front passenger.

BMW uses real slate on the center console, with glass details on the gear selector and function buttons.

Rear-seat climate control panel.

The second-row seat design of the 2027 X5.

Seatbacks equipped with phone attachment accessories.

Sport leather seats, using premium leather.

Glass roof on all versions.

Specifically, in the US market, the standard X5 40 variant is equipped with a 3,0-liter inline six-cylinder gasoline engine combined with a 48V mild-hybrid system, producing 394 horsepower and 580 Nm of torque. This is an increase of 19 horsepower and 61 Nm compared to the previous generation, enabling acceleration from 0-97 km/h in 5,1 seconds.

The sole plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) variant, the X5 50e xDrive, features a 3,0-liter I6 gasoline engine paired with an electric motor for a total output of 483 horsepower and 700 Nm of torque, consistent with the prior model. However, battery capacity has increased from 19,2 kWh to 26,5 kWh, allowing for an electric-only range of 71 km.

Notably, the first pure electric iX5 in the X5 lineup, designated iX5 60 xDrive, utilizes two electric motors, delivering a combined output of 570 horsepower and 804 Nm of torque. It accelerates from 0-97 km/h in 4,4 seconds. The vehicle is powered by a 144 kWh battery, offering a driving range of 700 km on a full charge. The battery supports DC fast charging up to 460 kW, enabling a 10-80% charge in 22 minutes.

Competitive position and pricing

In the US market, the new-generation X5 sees a 1,500 USD price increase over the current generation. The X5 40 xDrive variant is expected to go on sale in october this year, with other versions launching early 2027. BMW plans to introduce a high-performance M Performance variant powered by a V8 engine and an iX5 Hydrogen version in the future.

With these comprehensive upgrades, particularly the addition of the pure electric iX5, the new-generation BMW X5 is poised to exert significant pressure on its domestic rival, the Mercedes GLE. Although the new GLE recently received an update, the X5's diverse powertrain options and innovative design promise to maintain its leading position in the luxury SUV segment.

Luong Dung