New BMW X5 edges closer to production

BMW has teased its all-new X5 in full camo – again – as the family SUV enters the final stages of development. When it arrives, the fifth-gen X5 will be the first BMW offered with five different powertrain technologies, including a battery-electric iX5 for the time.

The new X5 is on the home stretch, according to BMW, with the final stages of its calibration phase currently underway around the Spartanburg production facility in South Carolina.

Set to offer five distinct powertrain options – the broadest in the X5’s history – the new X5 will arrive in battery-electric iX5 form, as well as plug-in hybrid (PHEV), petrol and diesel 48V mild-hybrids and, in 2028, a hydrogen fuel-cell (FCEV) variant.

Headlining the lot is the iX5 60 xDrive, which debut the brand's sixth-generation eDrive technology. Underpinned by an 800V architecture, the dual-motor EV is good for 425kW and comes fitted with a huge 144kWh battery pack, housing cylindrical cells.

Meantime, the Bavarian marque shared extra detail on its upcoming iX5 Hydrogen. Due in 2028, it combines a fuel cell system with a high-voltage battery pack and the brand’s ‘Hydrogen Flat Storage’ system comprising seven carbon-fibre-reinforced high-pressure tanks mounted within a metal frame.

This, according to BMW, maximises packaging and efficiency. It’s also able to be built alongside other X5 variants on the same production line.

As per the next M3, the new X5 will also benefit from BMW’s Neue Klasse tech, including the 'Heart of Joy' control unit and BMW Dynamic Performance Control software.

Outside, wheels as large as 23 inches can be optioned, while every X5 will come standard with adaptive suspension and “almost 50:50 weight distribution”.

Meanwhile, Adaptive Chassis Control Professional – which adds two-axle air suspension with electronically controlled dampers, active roll stabilisation and Integral Active Steering – can be optioned on electric and plug-in hybrid variants.

Naturally, the new X5 will come equipped with BMW’s full suite of safety gear, along with SAE Level 2 driver assistance systems and active safety aids as part of its Neue Klasse tech suite.

BMW Australia is yet to confirm which of the powertrain options will be available Down Under and when they’re expected to arrive.

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