BMW has confirmed that the fifth-generation X5, codenamed G65, has entered its final test phase, with the iX5 60 xDrive marking the first fully electric version of the SAV.
The iX5 introduces BMW’s sixth-generation eDrive technology, using an 800V electrical architecture and cylindrical battery cells. Its 141kWh net battery for Europe is the largest high-voltage battery BMW has fitted to an all-electric model to date.
Power comes from two motors, one on each axle, with xDrive all-wheel drive delivering up to 425kW, or 578hp, in the iX5 60 xDrive.
The electric version is only part of the wider X5 story. BMW said the new model will be offered with five drive-system technologies under one model line: petrol, diesel, plug-in hybrid, full electric and hydrogen fuel cell.
The petrol and diesel versions get 48V mild-hybrid assistance, while plug-in hybrid models will continue alongside the all-electric iX5. The hydrogen-powered iX5 Hydrogen is due in 2028 and will be BMW’s first hydrogen fuel-cell model to reach series production.
It uses a third-generation fuel cell system and BMW’s Hydrogen Flat Storage layout, with seven carbon-fibre reinforced tanks integrated into a metal frame. BMW said the packaging avoids a loss of cabin space and allows hydrogen variants to be built on the same production line as petrol, diesel, plug-in hybrid and electric versions.
Production will take place at BMW Plant Spartanburg in the United States, long the X5’s production base.
BMW has also given journalists an early prototype drive in three versions: the X5 40 xDrive with 400hp, the X5 50e xDrive plug-in hybrid with 490hp, and the iX5 60 xDrive. The exercise gives the first broad look at how the combustion, plug-in hybrid and electric variants differ before the full debut.
Beyond the powertrain spread, the new X5 also brings fresh chassis and control hardware. That includes BMW’s “Heart of Joy” control unit, which the company said is 10 times faster than the previous system at managing power, braking and steering inputs.
Adaptive suspension and wheels up to 23 inches will be available across the line-up, while the iX5 and plug-in hybrid versions can be specified with air suspension.
