2026 BMW X5 revealed: the fifth-generation luxury SUV arrives with five powertrain options, including electric, hydrogen, hybrid, and petrol variants. This marks the first time BMW offers such a broad choice in a single model. The new X5, built at BMW’s Spartanburg plant in South Carolina, retains its core position as the brand’s flagship Sports Activity Vehicle since 1999.
The all-electric BMW iX5 leads the lineup with sixth-generation eDrive technology, an 800V architecture, and cylindrical battery cells. It claims a driving range of up to 845 km for the iX5 60 xDrive, along with faster charging and bidirectional support. The 2026 BMW X5 also includes a production hydrogen variant, the iX5 Hydrogen, using third-generation fuel-cell technology and new Hydrogen Flat Storage tanks, with an estimated range of 750 km.
Design-wise, the 2026 BMW X5 adopts a cleaner, upright style inspired by the Neue Klasse design language. It features illuminated kidney grilles, double-X lighting, flush door handles, and 11 exterior colors with wheels up to 23 inches. Inside, the cabin focuses on digital innovation with BMW Panoramic iDrive, Operating System X, a windscreen projection display, and optional slate trim.
Mechanically, the X5 comes with adaptive suspension and near 50:50 weight distribution. Higher trims offer Adaptive Chassis Control Professional with roll stabilization. Level 2 driver assistance systems include BMW Symbiotic Drive and Soft-Stop braking for electric and hydrogen models. Production begins in August 2026, with petrol and diesel deliveries in late November 2026, and plug-in hybrid and electric versions arriving in early 2027. This versatile new X5 ensures BMW’s SAV remains competitive in the luxury SUV market.