Overview
The X5 is the vehicle that put BMW on the SUV map, although the brand insists that its performance and athleticism make it a “sports activity vehicle” rather than a utility vehicle. Okay, if you insist, BMW. The X5 is as new as the morning dew for 2027, and it wears updated styling that aligns with other new BMWs. Its cabin has been sharpened up with more cutting-edge tech, including a massive projection screen that runs along the base of the windshield.
Under the hood is a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six—the only engine option—which is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and either rear- or all-wheel drive. We’ve been behind the wheel of a pre-production prototype and can report that the X5’s satisfying driving experience has not been diluted in the transition to the new generation.
Expert Tip: For the ultimate BMW performance SUV, consider the BMW X5 M. The M has not yet migrated to the new platform, but we expect to see a new version of the hard-edged SUV soon.
What’s New for 2027?
The X5 has been redesigned for 2027 and enters its fifth generation. The new model rides on BMW’s Neue Klasse platform, which launched with the electric iX3 SUV and electric i3 sedan.
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Pricing and Which One to BuyEngine, Transmission, and Performance Engine: 394-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six Transmission: 8-speed automatic Drivetrains: rear-wheel drive, all-wheel drive
All models come with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six that makes a stout 394 horsepower. An eight-speed automatic and rear-wheel drive are both standard, and BMW’s xDrive all-wheel drive system is available as an option.
Adaptive dampers are standard, and an adjustable air-spring suspension system is optional and provides automatic self-leveling as well as the ability to raise or lower the X5 based on terrain conditions. A rear-wheel steering system is also available. We had the chance to test drive a prototype X5 and found the inline-six to be silky smooth and plenty powerful. We also noted that the X5’s ride was luxurious, and its handling precise and confidence-inspiring.
0–60-MPH Times C/D Estimated 60-mph Time: 4.5 seconds
In Comparison: We anticipate a 4.5-second run to 60 mph in our testing, which would put the X5 neck-and-neck with other top mid-size performance SUVs such as the Porsche Cayenne and the Mercedes-AMG GLE53.
Towing and Payload Capacity
Max Towing: 7710 pounds
In Comparison: At 7710 pounds, the X5’s towing maximum exceeds that of rivals such as the Genesis GV80 and falls just six pounds short of the Land Rover Range Rover Sport’s 7716-pound maximum.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
First Row: An interior design that integrates several digital displays is not uncommon in new luxury vehicles today, and the X5 joins that club. The styling is modern, and features textured upholstery and a backlit trim piece that wraps around from the doors and across the dash. A large center console features a storage bin, cupholders, and a wireless smartphone charging pad. Passenger space up front is generous; most people should have no trouble finding an ideal driving position. Heated seats are standard, but upgrade to the Luxury Seating or Climate packages, and you’ll get ventilated seats with four-way adjustable lumbar support.
Second Row: A three-across bench seat can accommodate two adults with room to spare, or three in a pinch. A flip-down center armrest not only includes cupholders but also has a storage pocket sized to fit a smartphone. The X5 is offered exclusively as a two-row SUV. For three-row accommodations, look to the larger X7.
Cargo Capacity: Behind the power liftgate is a large cargo bay. BMW has not revealed the volume measurement yet, but it appears to be at least as roomy as the outgoing model. When we get a new X5 into our office, we’ll stuff the trunk with carry-on suitcases and update this story with test results.
Infotainment and Connectivity Infotainment: 17.9-inch touchscreen (standard), 14.6-inch passenger touchscreen (optional) Connectivity: Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Audio System: 12-speaker stereo (standard), 18-speaker Bowers & Wilkins stereo (optional)
A trapezoidal-shaped 17.9-inch touchscreen at the center of the dash is the primary source for infotainment in the X5. The system runs BMW’s latest software and works in unison with a slim projection display that runs across the base of the SUV’s windshield. This system allows the driver to personalize the layout of the interface by repositioning certain widgets from the center screen to the windshield.
A 14.6-inch passenger touchscreen is also available and provides access to entertainment and gaming features, but is blacked out to the driver when the X5 is in motion so as not to cause distraction. Base models ship with a 12-speaker stereo, and an 18-speaker Bowers & Wilkins setup is available as an option.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
A host of driver-assistance features is offered on the new X5, many of them standard. If you want BMW’s Highway Assistant hands-free driving system, though, you’ll have to add that as an option.
Standard Safety Features: automated emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control Optional Safety Features: adaptive cruise control with a hands-free driving mode, self-parking feature, 360-degree exterior camera system
For information about the X5’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
BMW matches rivals Mercedes-Benz and Audi with similar warranty coverage but offers three years or 36,000 miles of complimentary scheduled maintenance to sweeten the deal. Volvo buyers also get such a benefit, while the Genesis GV80 offers longer powertrain coverage.
Limited Warranty: four years or 50,000 miles Powertrain Warranty: four years or 50,000 miles Complimentary Maintenance: three years or 36,000 milesAs more information becomes available, we’ll update this story with more details about: Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG C/D Test Results and Specs