Coming Soon: The Next-Gen BMW X5
As it is, the current X5 is already approaching its seventh year in production. For those familiar with BMW‘s life cycles, that means the next-generation model is just around the corner. The crossover had been spied before, and an alleged leaked photo of it is currently floating around the web.
The 2027 range was also leaked a few months ago, and the redesigned X5 appears to be part of it. Further hinting that its world premiere is drawing closer is the fact that the car has been undergoing numerous shakedown runs on the Nürburgring. One can say that BMW has been very busy lately and will be for the next couple of years.
SH Proshots/Autoblog
See How it Runs
Last time out, we saw the M3 EV/iM3 and the gas-fed 3 Series (likely an M350) do hot laps around the demanding track. This time around, it’s the turn of the midsize crossover. Seen testing in both electric and ICE guises, we can now make out more of its shape as its world debut comes closer and closer.
Obviously, the quiet one is the electric version, while the gas-powered tester sounds like it’s packing a six-cylinder engine. Of course, we can say that the six-cylinder is a sure model, as the leaked file from earlier stated that it is an sDrive40 model. As for the way these heavyweights move, it’s not bad at all considering these are expected to blow well past the two-ton mark. We also have to admit that the ICE version is a little on the hushed side, and it’s still unknown if a V8 will live for this generation.
Subtle Differences
Based on what we saw in the video, both gas and electric X5s appear to have the same body. Both employ the Neue Klasse design language, and we see elements from the iX3 present. This likely means BMW SUV models will feature a taller grille, while the sedans and wagons will have a shorter grille, like the i3.
It seems that the iX5 sits slightly lower to the ground. It’s not as low as, say, a 5 Series Touring would be, but the difference is noticeable once you see the ICE version. We also noticed that the iX5 has a different set of front and rear bumpers, likely to aid aero efficiency. As for the gas X5, it appears to have more clearance and leans a little more in the corners. The bumpers also have more cooling elements.
Little by little, we’re starting to see the final shape of the 2027 X5. That said, it’s interesting to see that the gas and electric models don’t ride on different architectures like the 3 Series and i3, and the X3 and iX3. Perhaps BMW is still developing it for larger models that will come after these.
SH Proshots/Autoblog
