by The Next Generation BMW X5 Will Debut in Just a Few Months
Recently, blurry photos of the future BMW X5 model for 2027 or 2028 model year, taken during a presentation in Germany, appeared online. They were followed by much clearer detailed renders, which allow for a better look at the key design changes.
Like most future BMW models, the X5 is entering the Neue Klasse era, which will bring a new design and modern powertrains. The current model is already considered one of the most restrained in design in the BMW lineup, but the update will go even further. It will be a more dramatic, yet possibly more attractive look.
The Neue Klasse Style Direction
As seen in renders by Sugar Design, the car’s front end strongly resembles the design of the second-generation iX3, unveiled half a year ago. It features similar vertical kidney grilles and distinctive headlights, now combined with X-shaped daytime running lights. The lower part of the bumper is finished in gloss black; this panel will likely also house sensors and cameras for driver assistance systems.
On the sides, it’s noticeable that the complex lines of the current X5 have given way to smoother door panels and fenders with square recesses.
Illustrations by Sugar Design
The recently leaked version is likely the powerful X5 M60e model with a hybrid powertrain. It has a more aggressive rear-end design, including a sharply styled two-tone bumper, diffuser, and four exhaust pipes, also reflected in the renders. Narrow horizontal taillights add a modern touch.
Interior and Display Design
Details about the interior are still limited, but some key elements have already been confirmed. The 2028 model will receive the latest Panoramic iDrive system, which combines a central touchscreen with a thin display extending along the lower part of the windshield, similar to solutions in the new iX3 and i3.
The full-width screen will display primary information for the driver, navigation, and media content, positioned directly in the line of sight. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support is expected, but CarPlay Ultra is unlikely to appear.
An X5 for Everyone
This time, not only the design is important. For the first time, BMW’s most popular SUV will offer a wider choice of powertrains: gasoline, diesel, plug-in hybrid, fully electric, and even hydrogen versions.
Among the expected versions with internal combustion engines are the 40, 40 xDrive, 40d xDrive, 50e xDrive, M60 xDrive, and M60e xDrive. Available engines will include turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder and 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder units, as well as a new X5 M model, which is likely to retain the 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8. Diesel options will also be available for European and other markets.
Illustrations by Sugar Design
Regarding electric versions, at least six different modifications are expected, and the possibility of a range-extender version is also being considered. The fully electric version will be called the iX5. The base eDrive40 will have around 340 hp, allowing acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in less than 6 seconds. The more powerful iX5 M60 version will have around 600 hp and reduce the acceleration time to approximately 4 seconds.
When Will the New X5 Appear?
The debut of the new X5 is expected around mid-2026, with customer deliveries starting in early 2027. In the market, the car will compete with models like the Porsche Cayenne and Range Rover Sport, as well as new electric rivals, including the Volvo EX90 and Polestar 3. Additional competition is expected from the next-generation Audi Q7 and the updated Mercedes-Benz GLE, which are set to appear around the same time.
The X5’s transition to the Neue Klasse platform is a logical step for BMW in the context of the overall electrification and model range renewal strategy. The wide choice of powertrains, from traditional to hydrogen, indicates the brand’s attempt to meet the needs of different markets and customer groups during the global automotive transformation. The success of this model will largely depend on how successfully innovative technologies, such as Panoramic iDrive, can be combined with the qualities for which the X5 is valued by buyers: comfort, practicality, and status. Competition in the premium SUV segment remains extremely high, so BMW will have to make an effort to stand out not only technically but also through compelling design and execution quality.
