BMW has revealed the fifth-generation X5, and it’s the only large luxury SUV in the world currently offering five powertrain options on the same platform: petrol, diesel, plug-in hybrid, electric, and eventually hydrogen. Due in Australia in the fourth quarter of 2026, the new X5 marks a significant step forward in both technology and design.
Petrol and Diesel First
The new X5 arrives first in petrol 40 xDrive and diesel 40d xDrive forms. Both use a 3.0 litre inline six-cylinder turbocharged engine with 48-volt mild hybrid assistance. The petrol produces 294kW and 580Nm, while the diesel makes 230kW and 670Nm, both paired with an eight-speed automatic and all-wheel drive. The petrol hits 100km/h in 5.3 seconds, the diesel in 6.1 seconds.
Plug-In Hybrid Follows in 2027
Following in 2027 will be the X5 50e xDrive plug-in hybrid, combining a 3.0 litre turbo petrol with an electric motor for a combined 360kW and 700Nm. Claimed electric-only range sits between 86 and 102 kilometres, with fuel consumption of 5.2 to 6.0 litres per 100km.
iX5 Headlines the Range
Headlining the new range is the fully electric iX5 60 xDrive. Built on BMW’s sixth-generation electric platform with an 800-volt architecture, it pairs front and rear electric motors for a combined 425kW and 805Nm, reaching 100km/h in 4.6 seconds.
WLTP range: up to 845km (best case), 645km (worst case). Rival comparison: Porsche Cayenne Electric 642km, Polestar 3 635km. DC fast charging: up to 460kW (no Australian charger currently supports this speed).
The headline number is its driving range: up to 845 kilometres on WLTP testing, ahead of the Porsche Cayenne Electric’s 642km and the Polestar 3’s 635km. Even in its least efficient configuration, it still quotes 645km. DC fast charging is rated at up to 460kW, though no charger in Australia currently delivers that speed.
Neue Klasse Design Direction
Outside, the new X5 adopts BMW’s Neue Klasse design direction, with smaller kidney grilles framed by illuminated surrounds, X-shaped headlight signatures, and a first for the brand: winglet-style door handles integrated flush into the body panels, similar in concept to the Volvo EX60.
Split Tailgate Gone
One change that has already attracted attention is the removal of the X5’s famous split tailgate, replaced by a conventional single-piece lid. Boot space sits at 655 litres with seats up and 1850 litres with them folded in petrol, diesel and electric variants. The plug-in hybrid is slightly reduced at 525 and 1680 litres respectively due to its battery pack.
Interior Overhaul
The interior has been significantly updated, featuring BMW’s new Panoramic iDrive cockpit with a slim projection display replacing the traditional instrument cluster, a 3D head-up display, a 17.9 inch central touchscreen, and a front passenger screen. Natural materials including glass and slate appear inside for the first time on an X5.
Pricing and Australian Timeline
Pricing is yet to be confirmed for Australia, but increases above the current X5’s $139,900 starting figure are expected. The petrol and diesel models arrive late 2026, with the PHEV and iX5 to follow in 2027.
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