BMW's X5 gets electrifying upgrade and here's your first look inside

BMW's X5 is back with one of its most significant updates ever. Since its debut in 1999, the iconic SAV has become a global success story, and the latest generation arrives with a sharper design, a smarter cabin and more powertrain choices than ever before. Buyers will be able to choose from petrol, mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions, while BMW is also preparing for a greener future with the arrival of the all-electric iX5 next year, alongside a hydrogen-powered variant. The aim is clear: move the X5 beyond its gas-guzzling reputation and into a new era of electrification.

For drivers worried that switching to electric could mean sacrificing long-distance comfort, BMW claims the iX5 will deliver more than 500 miles of range. Fast charging will also add around 217 miles of range in just 10 minutes, making motorway journeys far less stressful.

Performance won’t be sacrificed either. BMW says the iX5 will sprint from 0-62mph in under five seconds, making it quicker than many of its combustion-powered siblings.

The speed and long range have been made possible by new Gen6 battery technology. This features cylindrical cells with a height of 120 millimetres for the first time. That's compared with 95-millimetre-tall cells in the past. The larger batteries mean higher energy content and longer range.

To help the car glide through the air, the X5 has undergone a design refresh that now includes improved aerodynamics - even the rear door handles now look like winglets seen on planes. There's also a dominating kidney grille that glows in the dark, while new headlights introduce a distinctive “X” light signature.

The car even welcomes you and says goodbye via a mini light show, plus all four doors can be opened automatically, making it easier to hop in and out.

Eleven exterior colours, four of which are from BMW Individual, and an extensive wheel selection, ranging from the standard 21-inch to the newly available 23-inch wheels will also be available.

Jump inside and the cabin has undergone a complete digital overhaul. Drivers and passengers are now treated to more screens, including BMW's Panoramic Vision technology.

First introduced on the iX3, this projected panel runs right across the bottom of the dashboard and shows data such as range, altitude, weather, speed and BMW's alien-like smart assistant, which is powered by Amazon's Alexa+.

To make sure passengers don't feel they are missing out, the German car firm is also following other manufacturers by introducing a third display.

This 14.6-inch full-HD mini TV gets multi-touch technology and gives the front passenger full access to the wide range of BMW entertainment options, including video streaming, TV programmes, gaming, music, video calls and more.

Having tested passenger screens in other cars, such as the latest CLA from Mercedes, this technology does feel a little pointless, so it will be interesting to see how BMW implements the concept.

Other extras inside include a 17.9-inch main central display, which features a free-cut design, plus there's a 3D Head-Up Display, which sits above the BMW Panoramic Vision and projects selected content exclusively for the driver.

The redesigned multifunction steering wheel also aims to simplify operation, with illuminated controls, haptic feedback and clearer separation between driving assistance, parking and infotainment functions.

There are also plenty of safety features like Brake Assistant with Evasion Assistant, lane change warning and Side Collision Warning plus there are smart extras, such as self-parking.

Get out on the road, and BMW is promising a high level of comfort and the best driving dynamics in its segment. Adaptive suspension comes as standard, along with almost 50:50 weight distribution.

So when can you buy it?

Production of the new BMW X5 will get underway in August 2026 at BMW Group Plant Spartanburg in the USA. The market launch for the combustion-engined models is slated for 28.11.2026. The battery electric and plug-in hybrid variants will go on sale in early 2027.

“With its imposing presence and flawless symbiosis of comfort and driving pleasure, the BMW X5 became a global bestseller,” says Dr. Joachim Post, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG responsible for Development.

“And now the latest generation also benefits from the technologies in the Neue Klasse and the widest possible range of drive systems. As a result, I’m sure the new BMW X5 will set the benchmark in its class once again and write the next chapter in its success story.”