Fifth-Generation 2027 BMW X5 Tested in 394-HP xDrive40 Trim

The original BMW X5 revolutionized the SUV segment by combining scaled-up 5 Series styling, unibody construction, rear-biased all-wheel drive, and on-road performance. While previous generations evolved along that same trajectory, the fifth-generation 2027 BMW X5 introduces a dramatic redesign inspired by the Neue Klasse 3 Series and iX3. Its lineup spans gasoline, plug-in hybrid, and, for the first time, all-electric powertrains, alongside advanced software-driven technologies. Testing of the gas-powered X5 xDrive40 and electric iX5 xDrive50 in Orange County, California, reveals that BMW has retained the core driving appeal of the original model.

Visually, the 2027 X5 adopts a retro-futuristic look with narrow twin kidney grilles and angular headlights referencing 1960s BMWs, paired with smooth surfaces and flush doorless handles. Inside, a panoramic window-to-window display replaces the traditional instrument cluster at the bottom of the windshield. The cabin features a squared two-spoke steering wheel with yoke-like grips at 12 and 6 o'clock and a central touchscreen without the traditional iDrive rotary controller. Physical controls are limited to steering wheel buttons and about six center console switches for defrosters, hazards, and volume.

Under the skin, the SUV uses an updated, stretched CLAR platform with revised suspension geometry. The base X5 xDrive40 features an updated 3.0-liter turbocharged DOHC 24-valve inline-six producing 394 hp and 398 lb-ft of torque, assisted by a 17-hp, 147-lb-ft electric motor for a combined output of 394 hp and 428 lb-ft. Power goes to all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. The lineup also includes an updated X5 xDrive50e plug-in hybrid and a range-topping electric iX5 xDrive60. All variants use BMW's new Heart of Joy zonal architecture, which coordinates mechanical systems and supports the optional $2,500 Highway & Commuting Assistant (including four years of service), enabling hands-free driving up to 85 mph in the city and on highways.

On the road, the X5 xDrive40 delivers smooth, torque-rich acceleration and nearly imperceptible gear shifts, compensating for the current absence of a V-8 option. While light steering offers limited organic feedback, the chassis handles winding roads competently, aided by optional four-wheel steering and a well-damped air suspension that keeps the body level.

The Highway & Commuting Assistant handles stoplights and lane changes, automatically resuming control after minor driver inputs, with point-to-point navigation planned via a future over-the-air update. The panoramic display holds fixed driver readouts plus six customizable widgets, paired with an intuitive central interface supporting an AI assistant, Amazon Music, Prime Video, Disney+, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The 2027 BMW X5 xDrive40 is on sale now with a base price of $74,200. It has an estimated curb weight of 5,050 lb, a 119.5-inch wheelbase, and dimensions of 196.8 inches in length, 78.7 inches in width, and 68.6–68.9 inches in height. BMW estimates a 0–60 mph time of 5.4 seconds, while EPA fuel economy is rated at 24 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 26 mpg combined, providing a 569-mile total range.