BMW is preparing radical updates for its flagship X5 crossover, which in the next generation will receive not only traditional internal combustion engines, but also an all-electric version iX5, as well as a hydrogen modification, the launch of which is planned for 2028.
The X5 and iX5 prototypes have already been spotted under heavy camouflage, demonstrating a new design inspired by the Neue Klasse concept. But unlike the more compact iX3, which will receive the Neue Klasse platform, the new generation X5 will be built on the modernized BMW CLAR architecture.
This solution allows for flexibility in choosing powertrains, including gasoline, diesel, hybrid, electric and hydrogen options. The iX5 will be equipped with BMW's latest sixth-generation electric motors, an 800-volt architecture and new round battery cells with increased energy density.
For customers who do not want to choose between an internal combustion engine and an electric car, BMW will present a hydrogen fuel cell version. It will be equipped with a drive system developed in collaboration with Toyota and an improved fuel cell system that will provide significantly better performance than the iX5 Hydrogen prototype with an output of 396 hp.
In addition to the electric and hydrogen modifications, the X5 range will continue to include 48-volt mild hybrids based on 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder turbocharged gasoline and diesel engines. The top-of-the-line version with an internal combustion engine will be the X5 M60.
In Europe, this version will receive a powerful 3.0-liter plug-in hybrid unit, while in the US there will also be a 4.4-liter V8 with twin turbines. A high-performance iX5 M Performance is also being developed, which will receive power in excess of 600 hp.
BMW plans to launch an updated X5 family in the coming years, with electric and hydrogen versions becoming a key part of the brand's strategy for the transition to environmentally friendly technologies.