BMW is lining up an all-electric version of the X5 for 2026 – as the first of six new models to launch in the next three years.
The move will see the German brand’s SUV line-up completely electrified – with even a hydrogen-powered model coming in 2028.
BMW are to reinvent the iconic X5 model with an all-eletric version coming in 2026, called the iX5[/caption]
The release of the much-loved SUV will be the first of six new models to launch over the next three years[/caption]
As well as a new fifth-gen X5, BMW will release an all-electric iX5 next year, according to Auto Car.
BMW’s first ever SUV, which has sold some 2.2 million units since its release in 1999, will be fitted with upgraded petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid drivetrains.
But neither the iX5 nor X5 will feature BMW’s newly unveiled Neue Klasse platform.
Instead, they will each be given an upgraded version of BMW’s Cluster Architecture platform.
The Neue Klasse platform, which is a new, electric-only type of vehicle architecture, showcases BMW’s new approach to car design and technology.
It focuses on electrification, sustainability, and digital innovation.
But switching the electric iX5, as well as the regular X5, to this platform would prove tricky – requiring the X5’s ICE powertrains to be heavily modified to fit into a platform built predominantly for EVs.
However, the iX5 will still have certain features that would be introduced with Neue Klasse.
That includes updated electric drive components, new-generation batteries with round cells, and a fully networked 800V electric architecture.
The X5 and iX5 will also have a similar look to the Neue Klasse concepts.
This includes a new front fascia with triangular-shaped headlights, while Autocar reveals this will include new X-shaped headlights.
Inside, the X5 and iX5 will likely have a smoother overall appearance, which BMW describes as being more monolithic.
At the rear, it will boast an angled tailgate with a heavily shrouded window for aerodynamic efficiency.
BMW’s first SUV
BMW’s X5, a luxury mid-size SUV, debuted in 1999 as the brand’s first venture into the SUV market.
Renowned for its blend of sporty performance, premium comfort, and cutting-edge interior tech, the X5 has continually evolved with fresh designs and a range of powerful engines, setting the benchmark for luxury SUVs.
Interestingly, BMW doesn’t classify the X5 as an SUV but rather as a ‘Sports Activity Vehicle’ or SAV, emphasising its on-road agility alongside off-road capability.
Over the years, the X5 has grown in size and sophistication, now offering hybrid powertrains and semi-autonomous driving features, further cementing its position as a leader in its class.
This reworking of the Cluster Architecture will also provide the basis for other, future models; the X6 and X7, which will be released in 2028 and 2027 respectively.
Naturally, they will also get electric counterparts; the iX6 and iX7, meaning BMW’s entire range of SUVs will have an electric option.
For petrolheads that love the M Performance range, the X5 M will continue with an updated version of the existing model’s twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 petrol engine.
An electric iX5 M Performance model is also in the works, set to be launched in 2027.
What’s more, a hydrogen-powered iX5 will join the line-up in 2028.
It seems to be all change at BMW at the moment, as they recently announced it is discontinuing its gesture control feature, launched in 2015, in favour of a more advanced infotainment system.
They’re also canning the incredibly cool M8 Coupe, according to reports.
The sporty motor, is to be pulled from showrooms in the early part of this year – at least in the US – woth dealers will no longer to accept orders for the two-door, fixed-roof version of the M8.
However, convertible and four-door Gran Coupe variants will remain unaffected.
As for the UK market, there has been no official announcement regarding the discontinuation of the M8 Coupe and therefore, it is currently still available.
The launch of the iX5, as well as the iX6 and iX7, will mean BMW’s entire range of SUVs will have an electric option[/caption]
Even a hydrogen-powered iX5 will join the line-up in 2028[/caption]
