BMW Unveils 2027 X5 and iX5: Offering Both Gasoline and Advanced Electric Powertrains

Image: Ars Technica · Source

BMW introduces the 2027 X5 alongside its all-electric iX5, providing customers a choice between traditional gas, hybrid, and fully electric SUVs, with the iX5 boasting up to 450 miles range and ultrafast 460 kW charging.

BMW has expanded its X5 lineup for the 2027 model year by offering both traditional gasoline and cutting-edge electric variants, meeting diverse consumer preferences as the auto industry transitions toward electrification. Building on technology introduced in its Neue Klasse iX3, the new all-electric iX5 incorporates advanced motors, a significantly larger battery, and a revamped digital cockpit, while the gasoline-powered X5 continues with a familiar yet efficient mild hybrid setup.

The conventional X5 40 xDrive uses a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine paired with a 48-volt mild hybrid system. This powertrain delivers 394 horsepower and an estimated range of 569 miles on a full tank, boasting improved efficiency from features like the Miller combustion cycle and variable valve timing. Additionally, BMW plans to introduce a plug-in hybrid X5 50e xDrive variant with a 26.5 kWh battery and approximately 44 miles of electric-only range, as well as future hydrogen fuel cell options.

The iX5 electric SUV touts a dual-motor configuration combining an asynchronous front motor with an electrically excited synchronous rear motor to minimize energy loss. Together they produce 570 horsepower and 593 pound-feet of torque. Central to the iX5 is a sizable 144 kWh usable battery composed of new 120 mm cylindrical cells, enhancing energy density by 30 percent compared to the iX3. BMW estimates this setup enables up to 450 miles of range per EPA tests.

Charging technology is a notable highlight of the iX5, featuring an 800-volt system capable of extraordinarily fast DC charging at up to 460 kW via a new North American Charging Standard (NACS) port. Demonstrations show the battery can be replenished from 10 to 50 percent state of charge in just over nine minutes and 10 to 80 percent in as little as 22 minutes with access to the appropriate charger. The vehicle also supports bidirectional charging with V2H and V2L adapters.

Inside, BMW has replaced its traditional instrument cluster with the Panoramic Vision digital display that blends into the windshield, complemented by a full-color heads-up display to minimize driver distraction. The infotainment system includes a trapezoidal touchscreen and an enhanced onboard voice assistant allowing intuitive control over functions such as seat massage.

The iX5 incorporates BMW’s new "Heart of Joy" domain controller managing vehicle dynamics and safety features, including an advanced driver assistance system called BMW Symbiotic Drive. Notably, the system can autonomously detect red lights and stop signs, applying brakes if the driver fails to respond, a standard safety net that operates independently of cruise control modes.

On the road, the iX5’s substantial battery weight contributes to a smoother ride by damping short-term road shocks more effectively than the gasoline X5. Both vehicles employ adaptive air suspension, but the electric model’s regenerative braking offers selectable settings, including one-pedal driving that can bring the car to a complete stop.

Pricing starts at $72,100 for the gasoline X5 40 xDrive, with the electric iX5 60 xDrive starting at $79,800 plus delivery. The iX5 is slated for arrival in the first quarter of 2027, reflecting BMW’s commitment to provide flexible powertrain options as customers gradually transition toward electrified transportation.