The BMW X5 has long been a benchmark in the luxury midsize SUV segment, and the next chapter of its story looks more exciting than ever. With a completely redesigned fifth generation on the horizon, enthusiasts and potential buyers have plenty to look forward to. Whether you are drawn to its bold design evolution, cutting-edge technology, or expanded powertrain lineup, the BMW X5 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most significant model launches in the nameplate’s 27-year history.
Release Date: When Can You Expect It?
BMW CEO Oliver Zipse officially confirmed the next-generation X5 debut during the company’s Q3 2025 earnings conference call. According to reports from BMW X5 2026 Blog, production of the new X5 (internally codenamed G65) is set to begin at BMW’s Spartanburg, South Carolina plant in August 2026. This means most markets — including the United States — should see the new model hit dealership floors in late 2026, with some regions possibly waiting until early 2027.
Pricing is anticipated to start around $68,000, which is consistent with the current generation’s positioning in the luxury segment. For those in the market right now, the current fourth-generation (G05) 2026 BMW X5 is already available and starts at $66,300, offering a refined package while the all-new model builds anticipation.
Exterior: A Bolder, More Modern Identity
The design of the next-gen BMW X5 2026 represents a meaningful departure from what we have seen before, yet it stays true to BMW’s DNA. Spy shots and prototype sightings suggest the new model will adopt BMW’s Neue Klasse design language, the same forward-thinking aesthetic direction showcased in the recently unveiled iX3.
Here is what to expect visually:
- Sleeker, thinner kidney grille — The iconic twin-kidney grille remains, but it has been refined into a more horizontal, streamlined form that emphasizes the vehicle’s width rather than its height.
- Slim, angular headlights — Inspired by Neue Klasse concepts, the headlights are narrower and more sculpted, giving the front end a sharper, more futuristic expression.
- Smooth door surfaces — Early prototypes show completely flush door panels with no traditional handles, replaced by discreet wing-style openers along the window line.
- Bleeding taillights — The rear taillights are expected to extend into the rear fenders, a design cue already previewed on the BMW XM.
- Longer body — For the first time globally, the standard X5 will surpass five meters in length, providing more passenger and cargo space.
One notable change that has stirred debate among fans: the signature split tailgate may be replaced by a single-piece design, though this has not been officially confirmed by BMW.
Interior: Technology Takes Center Stage
Step inside the next-generation X5, and the transformation becomes even more apparent. The cabin is a tech-forward evolution that borrows heavily from BMW’s Neue Klasse interior philosophy.
Panoramic Display — Spy shots clearly show a wide, cinema-style display stretching across most of the dashboard’s width. This replaces the traditional instrument cluster and infotainment screen with a seamless digital canvas.
No More iDrive Controller — BMW has removed the iconic rotary iDrive dial, shifting all interaction to touch, voice commands, and haptic controls built into the steering wheel. The center console adopts a minimalist layout with a toggle-style gear selector.
Optional 3D Head-Up Display — Drivers who want the most immersive experience can opt for a 3D HUD that projects navigation, speed, and safety alerts directly into the line of sight.
Passenger Screen — Insider sources suggest an optional secondary display for the front passenger may also debut with the next-gen X5, a feature previously reserved for flagship models like the 7 Series.
Ceremonial Light Carpet — BMW is reportedly introducing a unique ambient lighting feature called the “Ceremonial Light Carpet,” expected to create a distinctive welcome experience for owners.
Overall, the cabin aims to move further upmarket, incorporating luxury features that previously belonged exclusively to the X7 and 7 Series.
New Changes: Powertrain and Technology Upgrades
Perhaps the most groundbreaking change is under the hood. The next-gen BMW X5 2026 will become the first X5 ever to offer five different powertrain options:
- Gasoline (inline-six, xDrive40i configuration)
- Diesel (xDrive40d)
- Plug-in Hybrid (M60e xDrive, sharing its powertrain with the current 750e)
- Battery Electric (iX5, with at least 300 miles of EPA-estimated range and 350 kW fast charging capability)
- Hydrogen Fuel Cell (iX5 Hydrogen 60H xDrive — launching in 2028)
The high-performance M variant, the X5 M60, will retain a twin-turbo V8 engine, while the top-of-the-line iX5 M70 xDrive electric variant is expected to deliver over 600 horsepower.
On the technology side, an advanced automated driving system built on the Snapdragon Ride Platform — the same one debuting in the iX3 — will enable hands-free highway driving, contextual lane changes, and AI-powered parking assistance.
For more detailed information, you can visit the official BMW Blog coverage on the next-gen X5.
Final Thoughts
From its redesigned exterior to its high-tech interior and game-changing powertrain lineup, the next-gen X5 is set to raise the bar in the luxury SUV segment. Whether you are drawn to the electric iX5, the powerful M60i, or the efficient plug-in hybrid, there will be an X5 for every type of driver. The wait until late 2026 might feel long, but everything points to it being well worth it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: When will the next-generation BMW X5 be available to buy? Production of the new G65 X5 begins in August 2026, with sales expected to start in most markets by late 2026 or early 2027, depending on the region.
Q2: How much will the 2026 BMW X5 cost? The next-generation X5 is expected to start around $68,000 for base configurations. Higher trims, M variants, and the all-electric iX5 will command a premium above that figure.
Q3: Will the BMW X5 2026 be available as an electric vehicle? Yes. The all-electric iX5 will debut alongside the gas and hybrid variants. It is expected to offer at least 300 miles of range and support ultra-fast 350 kW DC charging, enabling a 10–80% charge in approximately 20 minutes.
Q4: What design changes can we expect on the exterior? The new X5 adopts BMW’s Neue Klasse design language, featuring a sleeker kidney grille, slimmer headlights, flush door surfaces, and taillights that bleed into the rear fenders. The body length will also surpass five meters for the first time.
Q5: Is the V8 engine going away in the new X5? No. BMW has confirmed that a twin-turbo V8 will remain available in the X5 M60 performance variant, continuing the nameplate’s legacy of high-output gasoline engines.
Q6: Where will the new BMW X5 be manufactured? All future X5 models will continue to be produced at BMW Group’s Spartanburg plant in South Carolina, USA — the same facility that has built every X5 since the nameplate’s debut.
Q7: What is the Neue Klasse design language? Neue Klasse (German for “New Class”) is BMW’s next-generation design and technology direction, characterized by cleaner exterior styling, panoramic digital displays, reduced physical controls, and advanced EV platforms. It is being
rolled out across BMW’s model lineup through 2027 and beyond.
If you want to know more about luxury bmw cars click on this link :-
How the 2026 BMW M4 Redefines High-Performance Luxury Sports Cars
