BMW reveals fifth-gen X5 with several powertrain types

The midsize SUV will be offered with mild hybrid, plug-in hybrid, battery-electric and fuel-cell electric versions and as a V8-powered M model.

2027 BMW iX5 50 xDrive driving — *The 2027 BMW X5 family of midsize SUVs will include electric (pictured) and gasoline-burning versions. – BMW Group Canada photo*

BMW’s original SUV, the X5, is entering its fifth generation and the latest model promises to have a powertrain type option for everyone.

The automaker revealed the 2027 X5, which is fully redesigned, taking on the signature appearance, alongside with technological innovations of BMW’s Neue Klasse of vehicles.

The fifth-gen X5 will be offered with various powertrain types, including models powered by an internal combustion engine, with mild hybrid support, as well as plug-in hybrid, battery-electric and fuel-cell electric versions.

That doesn’t mean all powertrain versions will be available in Canada, but different types will be offered in different markets. Hydrogen-powered fuel cell electric vehicles, for example, aren’t particularly strong sellers in North America, but they are popular in parts of Asia and a few localized areas elsewhere.

2027 BMW iX5 60 side — *The BMW X5 40 xDrive and iX5 60 xDrive (pictured) will be among the first choices of the fifth-generation X5. – BMW Group Canada photo*

Five powertrain choices

In Canada, the 2027 BMW X5 will launch as the mild hybrid X5 40 xDrive, with a starting manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $95,500. The X5 40 xDrive will launch in October of this year.

The initial model will be followed by the X5 50e xDrive featuring a plug-in hybrid powertrain (PHEV), and the iX5 60 xDrive, a battery-electric vehicle (BEV).

Then sometime in 2027, a V8-powered M Performance version will launch.

Lastly, BMW is planning to launch the iX5 Hydrogen later on.

2027 BMW iX5 front — *The 2027 BMW iX5 uses the Neue Klasse design language. – BMW Group Canada photo*

New design

The X5 takes on the Neue Klasse design language, which debuted on the iX3 compact SUV. The design language is maintained regardless of powertrain type.

The front end is taller and the kidney grille is smaller compared to the outgoing X5.

The front apron varies depending on powertrain type. Models with a combustion engine get horizontal air intakes, while the electric models use a continuous apron.

2027 BMW X5 front — *The lower portion of the BMW X5’s front end is slightly different from the iX5. – BMW Group Canada photo*

The headlights and daytime running lights get double-X light designs, which means the Xs stay lit whether you’re driving in the day or at night. These lights also form part of the Welcome Light animation.

The double-X lights combine low-beam headlights, daytime running lights, side lights and turn signal indicators into a single element.

Adaptive LED lights are standard. Drivers can also switch off the double-X light for a simpler diagonal light appearance.

More details of each powertrain

2027 BMW iX5 rear — *The 2027 BMW iX5 uses the company’s latest eDrive technology. – BMW Group Canada photo*

iX5 60 xDrive

The iX5 60 xDrive utilizes the automaker’s sixth-generation eDrive technology, which uses 800V technology.

The cylindrical cells in the battery packs use the same cell chemistry as the 95-millimetre units in the iX3, but they measure 120 millimetres, giving the iX5 30 per cent more usable cell energy.

The result is a battery with a capacity of 144 kWh of net usable energy. BMW’s initial estimates point to a driving range of up to 700 kilometres, based on North American EPA standards.

With one motor at each axle, the iX5 60 xDrive gets 570 hp and 593 lb.-ft. of torque, with 325 hp and 369 lb.-ft. of that coming from the primary motor at the rear axle.

The asynchronous motor up front can be switched off. Because it creates no drag loss when it is de-energized, it improves the SUV’s driving range, BMW said.

BMW said the iX5 can handle charging rates of up to 460 kW, where available, allowing it to recharge from 10 to 80 per cent in as little as 22 minutes.

The on-board AC charger can handle speeds up to 15.4 kW.

2027 BMW X5 front and side — *The 2027 BMW X5 gets an updated version of the automaker’s B58 engine. – BMW Group Canada photo*

X5 40 xDrive

The X5 40 gets BMW’s B58 3-litre inline six-cylinder engine, which gets a new turbocharger that gives the motor a 19-hp increase, now rated at 394 hp. Torque is also up to 428 lb.-ft., from the previous 383 lb.-ft.

The motor receives 48V mild-hybrid support. The mild hybrid system is integrated into the compact housing of the eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission. The mild hybrid system provides up to 148 lb.-ft. of torque and 17 hp. It also helps reduce fuel consumption and lower emissions.

Zero to 100 km/h in the X5 40 xDrive is said to arrive in 5.3 seconds, or 5 seconds with a one-foot rollout. The top speed is electronically limited at 250 km/h.

2027 BMW X5 rear and side — *All versions of the fifth-generation X5 get a monolithic design. – BMW Group Canada photo*

X5 50e xDrive

The plug-in hybrid version pairs an updated six-cylinder engine with a synchronous electric motor with 194 hp. The engine produces 308 hp.

The electric motor is integrated inside the eight-speed Steptronic transmission and receives its energy from a battery with 26.5 kWh of usable energy.

Combined, the powertrain produces 483 hp and 516 lb.-ft. of torque, and electric driving range is estimated at 70 kilometres.

2027 BMW iX5 front seats — *The midsize SUV picks up new tricks to make it more comfortable and dynamic. – BMW Group Canada photo*

Improved dynamics and comfort

BMW said the fifth-generation X5 is further refined to balance dynamic driving capability and long-distance comfort.

The SUV gets an increased track width and a stiffer body, while the steering and steering gear are acoustically decoupled for improved comfort.

Models with a combustion engine (including the PHEV model) use BMW’s 10th generation Lateral Dynamics Management and near-actuator wheel slip limitation for precise control.

2027 BMW iX5 rear seats — *An adaptive suspension should keep everyone comfortable inside the new BMW X5. – BMW Group Canada photo*

The electric models will go beyond that with new Neue Klasse technology, that utilizes the SUV’s Superbrain and BMW Dynamic Performance Control to adjust the drive system, brakes, steering functions, charging and recuperation in milliseconds for optimum driving capability and efficiency.

BMW said the fifth-gen X5 has a weight distribution of nearly 50:50 and has an adaptive suspension as standard.

2027 BMW iX5 cabin front — *The BMW Operating System X runs the X5’s electronics. – BMW Group Canada photo*

Technology

BMW is throwing its latest technology systems into the redesigned X5, providing driver assistance systems and entertainment options.

The BMW Operating System X offers app, video and gaming options. BMW offers a digital premium package, or owners can use their smartphone as a mobile hot spot to power their vehicle’s data.

Among the video apps available on the X5 is TiVo, which gives people access to live and on-demand content.

Videos can be streamed on the centre display when the vehicle is stationary and also on the available passenger display when the vehicle is moving.

An AI-powered personal assistant uses Amazon’s Alexa+ technology, which will be introduced in Canada in 2027.

2027 BMW iX5 cargo area — *The BMW X5 is a roomy five-seat SUV. – BMW Group Canada photo*

“With its imposing presence and flawless symbiosis of comfort and driving pleasure, the BMW X5 became a global bestseller,” said Joachim Post, member of the board of management of BMW AG responsible for development, in a news release. “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.”

For full model details, visit the BMW Canada website.