2027 BMW X5 features the future
The all-new fifth-generation BMW X5, takes to our forecourts in Spring 2027, its first variant making its debut in 1999, this latest iteration continuing that legacy as the first BMW model engineered to support five different drive systems, including hydrogen. All model variants will be produced at BMW Group Plant Spartanburg in the United States, which has been producing the BMW X5 since its launch in 1999. The BMW iX5 will be the first all-electric BMW to be produced at the site. Its high-voltage batteries will be manufactured locally at a new production plant, where no fossil fuels are required during normal operations.
Propulsion choice
BMW X5 customers in Ireland will have the choice of battery electric, plug-in hybrid and diesel engine drivetrains at launch. The all-electric BMW iX5 60 xDrive offers a range of up to 845-km (WLTP) and a system output of 578 hp, enabled by two electric motors. Gen6 technology introduces new, taller cylindrical cells with a height of 120 mm – offering a higher energy content – a large 141 kWh (net) high-voltage battery in a cell-to-pack design, an increased charging rate of up to 460 kW and bidirectional charging capabilities. A fully electric M Performance model will later join the lineup.
In addition to a diesel model – with 48V mild hybrid technology – and plug-in hybrid derivatives, the new BMW X5 is available with an all-electric powertrain for the first time as the BMW iX5. It features sixth generation BMW eDrive technology with new, taller cylindrical cells, enabling a single-charge range of up to 845 km (WLTP) in the 60 xDrive and up to 460 kW DC charging.
The BMW iX5 Hydrogen will complete the lineup as the brand’s first hydrogen-powered production vehicle. It combines BMW’s third-generation fuel cell system, BMW Hydrogen Flat Storage technology and an innovative high-voltage battery to deliver a range of up to 750 km.
Customers can select from two plug-in hybrid derivatives: the BMW X5 50e xDrive and the BMW X5 M60e xDrive. Both models team the latest 3.0-litre six-cylinder petrol engines – featuring a new turbo charger – with a synchronous electric motor with a nominal output of 197 hp. The motor draws its energy from a high-voltage lithium-ion battery, storing 26.5 kWh of usable energy to enable up to 101 km (WLTP) of all-electric range. The flagship BMW X5 M60e xDrive has a combined system output of 612 hp and 800 Nm of torque, resulting in 0-100 kph in just 4.5 seconds.
The BMW X5 40d xDrive is powered by a 3.0-litre diesel engine with BMW EfficientDynamics technology and two-stage turbocharging. It delivers a peak torque of 670 Nm with the assistance of a 48V mild hybrid system and a combined fuel consumption of up to 7 l/100km 2 (WLTP figure measured under EU6e emissions regulations. This model will be retested to EU7 standard before Ireland market launch). The latest BMW diesel engines are compatible with renewable fuels bringing reduced CO₂ emissions. For example, the HVO100 fuel used for the initial fill following production offers a reduction of up to about 90 per cent compared to
conventional diesel fuel.
How it Looks
This new BMW X5 introduces an all-new design blending classic BMW SAV proportions with contemporary Neue Klasse design language. The robust exterior is characterised by an upright front end with the BMW Glow vertical kidney grille and debuts new switchable ‘double-X’ icons for the daytime running lights. The side profile features a contoured silhouette, sloping roofline, muscular wheel arches and expansive soft-close doors where new BMW Winglet door handles can be used to operate new electrically powered doors, if specified. Wide shoulders and a recessed glasshouse – delivering improved aerodynamics and efficiency – feature at the rear, alongside intricately-designed taillights which extend across almost the entire width of the vehicle.
Inside Story
Inside, the 2027 BMW X5’s spacious cabin receives a completely new design with clear structures and uncluttered surfaces – optimised entirely around the driver. Available options 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. A new wrap-around cockpit introduces a 3D backlit ambient light strip and sets the stage for BMW Panoramic iDrive, bringing together the free-cut 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 BMW X5 – available optionally.
Some of the standard interior features include;
- Large panoramic sunroof
- Sports seats with enhanced quilting
- Optional multifunction seats offer ventilation and massage functionality – available in BMW Individual Merino Leather.
- A new range of steering wheels, crafted from premium materials, offers haptic feedback through shy tech controls, helping drivers keep their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.
- A Smoke White BMW Individual steering wheel can also be specified in conjunction with the Smoke White Merino Leather interior design.
- Four-zone climate control, rear seat heating and front-seat ventilation
- 18-speaker Bowers & Wilkins surround sound system with Dolby Atmos Support is also optionally available
- Rear passengers benefit from an updated Travel & Comfort system, including optional magnetic holders for attaching smartphones and other devices to the back of
the front seats.
Wheels & Paint
BMW X5 customers can personalise their choice with eleven exterior paint choices and an alloy wheel portfolio in sizes up to 23 inches. Customers choosing M Sport, M Sport Pro and M Performance models benefit from a variety of model-specific design features. M Sport includes M roof rails in high-gloss Shadowline, the M Aerodynamics Package, sculpted front and rear bumpers and side skirts in body colour. It also brings M Adaptive suspension, 21-inch alloy wheels, M Sport brakes with dark blue callipers and the BMW M interior design with Black/Atlas Grey sports seats in Veganza/Alcantara upholstery.
M Sport Pro models add additional features, including 22-inch Trigon light-alloy wheels in Jet Black and M Sport brakes with red callipers. Other visual highlights are the darker BMW Iconic Glow kidney grille in M Shadowline, exterior mirrors in high-gloss black and M-specific bumpers with a higher proportion painted in black. Inside, M Sport Pro models receive a model-specific steering wheel design and seat belts with M tricolour stitching.
For those who want to stand out
The flagship BMW X5 M60e xDrive stands out 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 unique horizontal light signature inspired by the BMW M “Seehaus” stripes. Also unique is the front bumper with additional lateral air intakes and signature BMW M quad exhaust pipes at the rear. Further visual flourishes include M-specific high-gloss exterior mirrors with Seahaus stripes, and 22-inch alloy wheels wrapped in Sport tyres.
Further customisation is possible via the M Performance Parts catalogue. Highlights include a carbon fibre M Performance front splitter, M Performance roof spoiler, M Performance rear diffuser and M Performance exterior mirror caps. M Performance wheel designs are also available.
Super-Brain
The fifth-generation BMW X5 fuses an engaging drive and outstanding levels of comfort. The all-electric BMW iX5 harnesses the Heart of Joy super brain and BMW Dynamic Performance Control software stack to provide unrivalled driving dynamics and, thanks to BMW Symbiotic Drive, an exceptionally smooth stopping process. Combustion and plug-in hybrid models utilise BMW’s tenth-generation transverse dynamics management system to cluster and centralise all agility-enhancing driving functions – including all-wheel drive – as the Heart of Joy does in the BMW iX5.
Steering & Suspension
All models are equipped with adaptive suspension as standard and benefit from a near-50:50 weight distribution for assured and comfortable handling. 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 – enabling the rear wheels to turn up to 3.2 degrees and reducing vehicle’s turning circle by approximately 0.8 metres. Ride height can be adjusted manually or automatically to enhance comfort or increase range, depending on the chosen settings.
Assistance Systems
The fifth-generation X5 is equipped with a selection of advanced driver assistance systems. BMW Symbiotic Drive enables seamless interaction between driver assistance systems and driver input. The driver can 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 130 kph.
Automated lane changes are also possible, once confirmed by a deliberate look in the relevant side mirror. 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.