The Bavarian colossus is preparing for a large-scale shake-up in one of its most key segments, and the first visual details about the fifth generation of the legendary BMW X5 are already available. Although in the form of independent renders based on fresh spy shots from the test tracks, the silhouette of the future G65 is starting to emerge from the fog of assumptions. The official debut is expected to shake up fans in August 2026, marking the beginning of a new, much different era for the model, which will enter showrooms in full force in early 2027.
The design direction that the specialists in Munich have taken is on the way to consign the shapes we have known so far to history. Forget about the aggressively bloated “kidneys“ that have dominated recently. The new BMW X5 G65 relies on a more subtle and clean aesthetic, strongly inspired by the electric pioneer BMW iX3. The front part has housed surprisingly narrow, almost piercing headlights, and the grille is noticeably more compact and elegant. The body has lost some of its sharp edges at the expense of smooth, aerodynamic curves that seem to be sculpted by the wind, giving the crossover a more modern and even slightly futuristic look.
However, the interesting thing lies under the sheet metal. Despite the visual resemblance to the brand's “battery“ additions, the new BMW X5 will not switch to the Neue Klasse platform. The engineers have decided to rely on the proven and extremely flexible CLAR architecture. This decision is a strategic move that allows the Bavarians to maintain the huge variety of drives for which the model is known. Naturally, traditionalists can rest easy – gasoline and diesel units remain in the game, of course, assisted by the latest generation of mild hybrid systems for better efficiency.
The big news, however, is related to full electrification. For the first time in the history of the model, we will see a fully electric modification that will have to face the toughest competition in the luxury segment. And if that is not enough to raise your eyebrows, then we will say that the plans for 2028 definitely will. BMW is preparing a serial version with hydrogen fuel cells, and in this technological adventure, experts from Toyota stand shoulder to shoulder with them. Using the invaluable experience from the Toyota Mirai, the Germans are ambitious to turn the BMW X5 G65 into one of the most versatile and environmentally friendly luxury SUVs on the planet.