BMW CEO Oliver Zipzer recently revealed that the brand's new generation X5 model will be officially unveiled this summer.This luxury mid-size SUV, internally codenamed G65, is part of a matrix of more than 40 new and modified models that BMW plans to launch before the end of 2027. As the fifth-generation X5, it will make brand history: becoming the first mass-produced model to offer five power forms simultaneously.
In addition to traditional gasoline and diesel engine versions,The new X5 will also add a new plug-in hybrid version, as well as the iX5, the first pure electric model in the brand's history. It is worth noting that in addition to the three power sources of fuel, plug-in hybrid, and pure electric power, the car will also introduce a hydrogen energy version for the first time, further enriching the power selection matrix.
However, this hydrogen fuel cell model (rumored to be named iX5 60H xDrive) will not be launched simultaneously with other versions, and its launch time is expected to be postponed to 2028. Due to the imperfection and uneven distribution of global hydrogenation infrastructure, this hydrogen energy model will most likely not be released to the global market. It is reported that BMW is conducting in-depth cooperation with Toyota to jointly develop third-generation fuel cell systems to lay a technical foundation for the implementation of hydrogen energy models.
Returning to the new G65 generation X5 itself, its power lineup is very rich, including in-line six-cylinder gasoline engines, in-line six-cylinder diesel engines, and V8 engines exclusive to the M Performance series and M high-performance models. Among them, the high-performance version is also expected to be launched as a pure electric model, taking into account performance and environmental protection to meet the needs and preferences of different consumers. In addition, in response to the special needs of the Chinese market, BMW may also launch an exclusive version with a long wheelbase to improve rear riding comfort.
In the plug-in hybrid version, if the new model is equipped with a sixth-generation round cell battery, the pure electric range will be significantly improved compared to the current model. It is reported that the current X5 xDrive50e has a pure electric range of 68 miles (approximately 110 kilometers) under WLTP operating conditions and 38 miles (approximately 61 kilometers) under EPA operating conditions. The endurance performance of the new model is worth looking forward to.
Regarding the production and delivery plan, after the new G65 generation X5 completes its global premiere this summer, the first batch of models will officially start mass production in August. The first two versions to be put into production will be the 40 xDrive and 40d xDrive, followed by the rear-wheel drive 40i model. Before the end of this year, BMW's Spartanburg plant will gradually start production of the 50e xDrive, M60e xDrive and iX5 60 xDrive models.
By 2027, the car product line will be further expanded, with three new versions: M60 xDrive, iX5 50 xDrive and iX5 M70 xDrive. The high-performance version of the X5 M, equipped with a V8 engine and electric system, will not be officially launched until 2028, becoming the flagship model of the series.