2027 BMW X5: Everything we know about this Neue Klasse-style SUV

The BMW X5 has long been the benchmark for mid-size luxury SUVs, setting the standard for power, style, and technology in an increasingly crowded market. Since its debut in 1999 as BMW’s first SUV, the X5 has remained at the forefront, evolving with each generation. Now, with the next generation of the model on the horizon, BMW looks ready to raise the bar once again with a sharper, more refined version of the X5.

Recently spotted testing in Germany and Spain alongside a new version of the 7 Series, BMW’s next-generation X5 SUV is preparing to reclaim its crown as one of the best luxury crossovers money can buy — assuming you have enough money.

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The X5, codenamed G65, has been successfully digitally decoded in disguise, and we’re here to reveal everything we can before its official unveiling. So, let’s peel back the layers and dig deeper.

Powerful proportions

Inspired by BMW’s Vision Neue Klasse X concept car, the X5 embodies the Bavarian automaker’s bold new design direction, characterized by sharper surfaces and a subtle nod to the understated modernity of its iconic 1970s and 1980s models.

Up front, a redesigned twin-kidney grille is flanked by strikingly elongated headlight clusters and horizontal daytime running lights. A contoured hood with a central recess gives it a purposeful stance, while the muscular fenders on the sides (borrowed from the new X3) house the charging ports for the plug-in hybrid and electric variants, hinting at what’s under the hood.

The flush door handles, reminiscent of those used on the Ford Mustang Mach-E, are seamlessly integrated into the window moldings, giving it a sleek, minimalist look. Don’t worry, the signature Hofmeister angles are still intact. The updated design also features a more rear-biased wheelbase-to-dash ratio, giving the X5 a cab-rearward stance. At the rear, the vehicle takes on a more holistic and squared-off look, a significant departure from its predecessor.

A smarter interior

The cabin will mimic the upscale ambience of the latest 5 Series, with curved panels housing a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch infotainment touchscreen running BMW’s latest iDrive 8.5 interface. It’s all very futuristic — just don’t forget to actually drive it.

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Of course, no modern luxury SUV is complete without Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, wireless charging, and an onboard Wi-Fi hotspot. A Harman/Kardon stereo system makes your journey sound like a concert, while over-the-air updates keep your technology as fresh as the day you bought it. Want more? Premium features like glass interior controls, 7-seat configuration, and BMW’s hands-free Highway Assistant are all there to up your game.

Electrification ambitions

The upcoming X5 is expected to ride on BMW’s existing CLAR platform rather than the Neue Klasse architecture, but CLAR’s flexibility allows it to handle both internal combustion and electric powertrains.

So under the hood (or, rather, under various hoods), the X5 will offer hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and possibly even all-electric options, the latter of which will take the iX5 name. Details remain under wraps, but if it follows the lead of the latest 5 Series, expect a range of turbocharged four-cylinder and inline-six engines. Sorry, there’s no roaring V8 in the standard X5 range this time around, but those craving it can still look forward to the M model – but more on that later.

Among the choices, you might find a 375-horsepower turbocharged inline-six with a 48-volt hybrid system, a 483-horsepower plug-in hybrid, and an all-electric version that tops out at 593 horsepower. Yes, that’s a lot of horsepower, but this is a BMW, so it’s not surprising. The plug-in hybrid will likely use a 19.4-kWh battery, giving you more than 40 miles of electric-only range.

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If you use the all-electric system, the i5’s 84.3 kWh battery pack should be able to travel 295 miles (475 km) per charge, provided you don’t drive too crazy. DC fast charging? Yes, it takes only 30 minutes to charge from 10% to 80%, so there’s no reason to park for long.

Expect rear-wheel drive to be standard on lower-powered X5 models, with xDrive all-wheel drive reserved for more powerful models, but specifics may vary by market.

Will the X5M be the heavyweight champion?

In the future, we’ll see the introduction of a range-topping X5 M model, which will likely be the only V8 model in the range. It should be powered by the same 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 as the new M5, assisted by an electric motor integrated into the eight-speed automatic transmission, producing 717 horsepower and 738 pound-feet of torque.

Yes, we almost dare to ask how much the new X5 M will weigh, considering the current X5 M already weighs 5,455 pounds (2,474 kg), the new M5 weighs 5,390 pounds (2,445 kg), and the hybrid system adds another 882 pounds (400 kg).

Competitors and revelations

The X5 won’t have an easy fight, though. It’ll be up against some serious rivals: the Audi Q7, Volvo XC90, Mercedes-Benz GLE, Range Rover Sport, Porsche Cayenne, and the Lincoln Aviator, Genesis GV80, and Lexus RX, among many others. There’s no shortage of players in this game, each wanting a piece of the luxury (and near-luxury) SUV market.

BMW hasn’t revealed a specific release date, but expect the new X5 and iX5 to debut in the fall of 2026, most likely as 2027 models.

What do you think of the X5’s new look? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below – don’t hesitate!