When BMW launched the X5 in 1999, it helped redefine the luxury SUV market. More than 25 years later, over 3.1 million examples have been sold worldwide, making it one of BMW's most successful models.
Now, the fifth-generation X5 has been revealed, bringing a fresh design, more technology and the widest choice of powertrains the model has ever offered.
Designed to deliver the comfort of a luxury SUV with the driving dynamics BMW is known for, the new X5 will be available with diesel, plug-in hybrid, electric and hydrogen power. Here are the five biggest things you need to know.
1. More engine choice than ever
The new X5 offers more powertrain options than any previous generation. European buyers will be able to choose from diesel, plug-in hybrid, fully electric and hydrogen models, while a petrol version will be available in some markets. However, the petrol model won't be sold in the UK.
The entry-level UK model is expected to be the X5 40d xDrive. It uses BMW's 3.0-litre six-cylinder diesel engine with mild-hybrid technology, producing 313hp and 670Nm of torque. BMW says it should return more than 40mpg in official testing, making it an attractive option for drivers covering long distances.
The diesel engine can also run on hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO), a renewable fuel that can significantly reduce carbon emissions compared with conventional diesel.
BMW will also offer two plug-in hybrid versions, both pairing a six-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor and a 26.5kWh battery. These models are expected to deliver up to 63 miles of electric-only driving.
Looking further ahead, a hydrogen-powered X5 developed alongside Toyota is due to arrive in 2028 with a claimed driving range of up to 466 miles.
2. Electric iX5 promises impressive range
For the first time, the X5 will be offered as a fully electric model called the iX5.
BMW says it uses a huge 140kWh battery pack, making it one of the largest batteries fitted to a production car in Europe. The company claims the iX5 can travel up to 525 miles on a single charge, putting it among the longest-range electric SUVs on sale.
Charging performance has also been improved. The iX5 supports charging speeds of up to 460kW when connected to a compatible ultra-rapid charger, allowing drivers to spend less time waiting to top up the battery.
3. Fresh styling with BMW's latest design language
The new X5 adopts BMW's latest Neue Klasse design, giving the SUV a cleaner and more modern appearance while keeping the familiar shape that has made it so popular.
At the front, the illuminated kidney grille is joined by new X-shaped LED headlights that also perform welcome and goodbye lighting animations. The flagship plug-in hybrid model will feature BMW M's distinctive yellow headlights, inspired by the brand's endurance racing cars.
New winglet-style door handles sit neatly within the door pillars, while electrically powered soft-close doors are fitted as standard. Owners can even open all four doors remotely using the key.
Around the back, slimmer lights stretch further across the tailgate, helping the X5 appear wider and more muscular on the road.
4. A technology-packed interior
Inside, BMW has focused on creating a modern, high-tech cabin with premium materials throughout.
A new Panoramic iDrive display projects important driving information across the base of the windscreen, replacing the traditional instrument cluster behind the steering wheel.
The centrepiece is a large 17.8-inch touchscreen that controls almost every function, including the climate controls, heated seats and infotainment system. While this creates a minimalist dashboard, some drivers may miss having physical buttons for commonly used features.
Passengers can also choose an optional BMW Passenger Screen, allowing the front-seat passenger to access streaming apps and entertainment during longer journeys.
5. UK prices expected from around £80,000
BMW has yet to confirm UK pricing, but full details will be announced in October ahead of the first customer deliveries in early 2027.
The entry-level diesel model is expected to start at around £80,000, while the electric iX5 is likely to be priced competitively against other premium electric SUVs.
With more technology, a redesigned interior and the widest range of powertrains in its history, the latest BMW X5 is designed to appeal to a broader range of buyers than ever before. Whether drivers prefer diesel, plug-in hybrid, electric or eventually hydrogen power, BMW is ensuring there is an X5 to suit almost every need.