2026 BMW X5: Price, Performance, Features and 2027 Redesign

The 2026 BMW X5 remains one of BMW’s key luxury SUVs, combining strong road performance, a premium interior and a broad powertrain lineup. But there is an important distinction for shoppers researching the “new design” of the X5: the 2026 model is not the all-new fifth-generation X5. BMW’s major redesign arrives for the 2027 model year, bringing a new exterior, updated cabin technology and an expanded powertrain strategy that includes the first fully electric iX5.

For 2026, the X5 largely carries forward the fourth-generation formula. Buyers can choose between rear- and all-wheel-drive six-cylinder models, the xDrive50e plug-in hybrid and V-8-powered versions, including the X5 M60i and X5 M Competition. The result is a luxury SUV that still offers a wide range of performance and efficiency choices without requiring buyers to move to the redesigned 2027 model.

2026 BMW X5: Quick Answer

The 2026 BMW X5 is a carryover model rather than a full redesign. Its biggest updates for the model year are relatively limited, while the substantial exterior and interior transformation belongs to the upcoming 2027 X5.

For 2026, the lineup includes:

X5 sDrive40i: 375-hp turbocharged inline-six with rear-wheel drive
X5 xDrive40i: 375-hp turbocharged inline-six with all-wheel drive
X5 xDrive50e: 483-hp plug-in hybrid with all-wheel drive
X5 M60i: 523-hp twin-turbo V-8
X5 M Competition: 617-hp twin-turbo V-8

All versions use an eight-speed automatic transmission. BMW lists 0–60 mph times of 5.3 seconds for the sDrive40i, 5.2 seconds for the xDrive40i, and 4.6 seconds for the xDrive50e.

Is the 2026 BMW X5 All-New?

No. The 2026 BMW X5 is not the redesigned fifth-generation model.

The current X5 received its major facelift for the 2024 model year, bringing revised styling, updated engines and additional technology. For 2026, BMW continues that generation rather than introducing another major exterior redesign.

That distinction matters because much of the recent X5 coverage involving a dramatically different design refers to the 2027 BMW X5.

The fifth-generation X5 introduces BMW’s newer design language and is being offered with gasoline, plug-in hybrid, electric and other powertrain options. The new generation is based on an updated architecture designed to accommodate both conventional and electrified drivetrains.

So if you’re shopping for a 2026 X5, you’re looking at the established fourth-generation SUV. If you’re specifically interested in BMW’s major new X5 design, that is the 2027 model.

2026 BMW X5 Design

The 2026 X5 continues the styling introduced with the 2024 update.

Its exterior combines BMW’s familiar kidney grille with slim lighting elements, sculpted bodywork and a relatively upright SUV profile. Compared with some newer BMW products, the current X5 takes a more restrained approach to exterior styling.

That can be an advantage for buyers who prefer a conventional luxury-SUV appearance rather than the more radical styling BMW has introduced on some newer models.

The major visual change is coming with the fifth-generation X5. BMW’s 2027 model adopts a significantly different front-end treatment and new lighting signatures as part of the company’s broader Neue Klasse design direction.

2026 vs. 2027 X5 Design

Feature	2026 BMW X5	2027 BMW X5
Generation	Fourth generation	Fifth generation
Major redesign	No	Yes
Exterior styling	Current-generation design	New BMW design language
Powertrain choices	Gas, PHEV and V-8	Gas, PHEV, EV and additional electrified options
Cabin technology	Current X5 technology	New-generation digital technology

The 2027 X5 therefore represents the meaningful design reset, while the 2026 model is the more established version.

2026 BMW X5 Interior and Technology

Inside, the 2026 X5 continues to emphasize premium materials, comfortable seating and a technology-heavy dashboard.

BMW equips the SUV with a modern digital interface and connected features, while the cabin provides enough space for five passengers. One important limitation remains: the X5 does not offer a third-row seat. Buyers who need three rows have to move up to the larger BMW X7.

The X5’s cargo area is one of its practical strengths. BMW lists cargo capacity of 27.3 to 67.7 cubic feet, depending on seating configuration.

The cabin also benefits from BMW’s broader focus on connectivity, digital displays and driver-assistance technology.

Available and standard equipment varies by trim and configuration, so shoppers should check the equipment list for the specific X5 they are considering rather than assuming every technology feature comes on every version.

2026 BMW X5 Engine and Powertrain Options

One of the X5’s biggest strengths is its range of powertrains.

X5 sDrive40i and xDrive40i

The mainstream X5 uses a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six with mild-hybrid assistance.

BMW rates the engine at:

375 horsepower
398 lb-ft of torque
Eight-speed automatic transmission

The sDrive40i uses rear-wheel drive, while the xDrive40i adds BMW’s all-wheel-drive system.

BMW quotes 0–60 mph in 5.3 seconds for the sDrive40i and 5.2 seconds for the xDrive40i.

For many buyers, the xDrive40i offers a useful balance between performance, comfort and everyday usability.

X5 xDrive50e Plug-In Hybrid

The xDrive50e combines the turbocharged inline-six with an electric motor.

Combined output reaches:

483 horsepower
516 lb-ft of torque
All-wheel drive
Eight-speed automatic transmission

BMW lists an electric range of up to 38 miles for the 2026 X5 xDrive50e.

The plug-in hybrid is particularly interesting for drivers who can regularly charge at home and use electric power for shorter daily trips while retaining the flexibility of a gasoline engine for longer journeys.

The xDrive50e can also be quick. BMW quotes a 0–60 mph time of 4.6 seconds, while Car and Driver recorded 3.9 seconds in its testing of the hybrid X5.

For 2026, the xDrive50e also benefits from an increased maximum AC charging rate of 11 kW, up from the previous 7.4-kW capability on earlier versions.

2026 BMW X5 M60i Performance

The X5 M60i moves into V-8 territory.

It uses a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V-8 producing:

523 horsepower
553 lb-ft of torque
All-wheel drive
Eight-speed automatic transmission

BMW quotes a 4.2-second 0–60 mph time for the M60i.

This version is aimed at buyers who want significantly more performance without stepping all the way into the harder-edged X5 M Competition.

2026 BMW X5 M Competition

At the top of the performance range sits the X5 M Competition.

BMW rates its twin-turbo V-8 at:

617 horsepower
553 lb-ft of torque
All-wheel drive
Eight-speed automatic transmission

BMW lists a 0–60 mph time of 3.7 seconds for the 2026 X5 M Competition.

Independent testing has demonstrated even stronger acceleration. Car and Driver recorded 3.4 seconds to 60 mph for an X5 M Competition, illustrating why the model occupies a very different performance category from the regular X5.

The trade-off is that the X5 M Competition prioritizes performance more heavily than comfort. Its suspension and performance hardware make it substantially more focused than the standard X5 lineup.

2026 BMW X5 Performance and Driving Experience

The standard X5 is designed to combine performance with everyday comfort rather than behave like a dedicated sports SUV.

The turbocharged six-cylinder engine provides strong acceleration, while the eight-speed automatic transmission is well suited to both relaxed cruising and more enthusiastic driving.

Car and Driver tested the X5 xDrive40i at 4.4 seconds from 0–60 mph in a previous test, showing that the six-cylinder version has considerably more performance than its luxury-SUV positioning might suggest.

The M60i takes performance considerably further with its V-8, while the X5 M Competition is designed for drivers who place acceleration and handling higher on their priority list.

At the same time, the regular X5 remains focused on refinement. That balance is one of the reasons the model continues to occupy an important position in BMW’s SUV lineup.

2026 BMW X5 Fuel Economy

Fuel economy depends heavily on the powertrain.

For the six-cylinder X5, Car and Driver lists EPA ratings of up to 23 mpg city, 27 mpg highway and 25 mpg combined.

The V-8 models consume considerably more fuel, while the xDrive50e can operate on electric power for short trips when adequately charged.

Real-world results will vary according to driving style, weather, traffic, tire configuration and other conditions.

2026 BMW X5 Towing and Cargo Capacity

The X5 is not only a performance-oriented luxury SUV. It also offers useful utility.

Car and Driver lists a maximum towing capacity of 7,200 pounds, although capability depends on configuration and equipment.

Cargo capacity ranges from 27.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats to 67.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, according to BMW.

That makes the X5 considerably more practical for luggage, equipment and family use than its sporty image might suggest.

2026 BMW X5 Safety and Driver Assistance

The X5 includes a range of modern driver-assistance and safety technologies.

MotorTrend lists features including:

Adaptive cruise control
Automatic emergency braking
Blind-spot monitoring
Self-parking assistance
Rain-sensing wipers
Automatic headlights
Curve-adapting cornering lights

Safety equipment and available driver-assistance technology can vary by configuration and package, so buyers should verify the exact equipment on the vehicle they intend to purchase.

MotorTrend also reports that the X5 received a 2025 IIHS Top Safety Pick+, with the organization’s evaluations covering specific crashworthiness and lighting categories.

2026 BMW X5 Price

For the U.S. market, Car and Driver lists the 2026 BMW X5 range at approximately $69,750 to $95,050, depending on model and configuration.

The exact transaction price can be higher depending on options, packages, destination charges, taxes, dealer pricing and other factors.

BMW also emphasizes that the dealer sets the actual sale price and that MSRP does not include taxes, title, registration and other charges.

Because pricing can change during the model year, buyers should verify the current BMW USA configurator and dealer pricing before purchasing.

2026 BMW X5 vs. 2027 BMW X5: Which One Is New?

This is one of the most important questions for anyone researching the X5 in 2026.

The 2026 X5 is the outgoing-generation model, while the 2027 X5 is the major redesign.

The new fifth-generation X5 brings a substantially different exterior, a redesigned technology strategy and an expanded powertrain portfolio. BMW has also confirmed an electric X5, the iX5, alongside combustion and hybrid versions.

The 2027 model also moves BMW’s X5 closer to the technology philosophy introduced with the company’s Neue Klasse vehicles, including newer digital interfaces and electronic architecture.

That creates an interesting choice for buyers: the 2026 X5 represents a well-developed version of the current generation, while the 2027 model introduces substantially newer design and technology.

What Is New for the 2026 BMW X5?

The short answer is: not much compared with the 2025 model.

The current X5 was already significantly updated for 2024, and the 2026 model largely carries that formula forward. One notable change for the plug-in hybrid is the increased AC charging capability to 11 kW.

The much bigger changes belong to the fifth-generation 2027 X5.

This distinction is especially important when reading online articles that describe a “new X5” during 2026. Many of those reports are actually discussing the upcoming 2027 model.

2026 BMW X5 Pros and Limitations

Pros

Strong six-cylinder performance
Powerful V-8 options
Plug-in hybrid flexibility
Premium interior
Generous cargo capacity
Available all-wheel drive
Strong towing capability
Broad range of configurations
Refined highway manners

Limitations

No third-row seating
V-8 models become expensive and fuel-hungry
Some newer rivals offer more dramatic interior designs
The 2026 model does not receive the major redesign arriving for 2027
Equipment and options can significantly affect the final price

Is the 2026 BMW X5 Still Worth Considering?

The 2026 BMW X5 remains a relevant choice for buyers looking for a midsize luxury SUV with strong performance, premium cabin quality and multiple powertrain options.

The xDrive40i is likely to appeal to buyers who want a balance of performance and everyday usability, while the xDrive50e offers an alternative for drivers who can take advantage of plug-in charging. The M60i and X5 M Competition target buyers who prioritize high-performance driving.

The bigger question is timing.

If the latest BMW design, newest technology and the first electric X5 are the main priorities, the 2027 fifth-generation model is the one to investigate. If a buyer prefers the established fourth-generation X5 and can find favorable 2026 pricing or inventory, the current model remains a capable luxury SUV.

Final Thoughts

The 2026 BMW X5 is best understood as a mature version of BMW’s fourth-generation midsize luxury SUV rather than an all-new design.

It offers a broad range of powertrains, from the 375-hp turbocharged inline-six to the 483-hp plug-in hybrid and 617-hp X5 M Competition. The cabin remains premium and technology-rich, while its cargo capacity and towing ability give it useful everyday versatility.

But shoppers should be careful when searching for the “new BMW X5.” The major redesign is the 2027 X5, not the 2026 model. That upcoming generation brings the most significant styling and technology changes in the X5’s recent history, including the first fully electric iX5.

For buyers choosing between model years, the decision therefore comes down largely to whether they want the established 2026 X5 or the substantially redesigned 2027 generation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2026 BMW X5 redesigned?

No. The 2026 BMW X5 is largely a carryover of the current fourth-generation model. The major redesign arrives with the fifth-generation 2027 BMW X5.

How much horsepower does the 2026 BMW X5 have?

Power depends on the version. The sDrive40i and xDrive40i produce 375 hp, the xDrive50e produces 483 hp, the M60i produces 523 hp and the X5 M Competition produces 617 hp.

Does the 2026 BMW X5 have a plug-in hybrid?

Yes. The X5 xDrive50e is a plug-in hybrid producing 483 hp and offering up to 38 miles of electric range according to BMW.

How fast is the 2026 BMW X5?

BMW quotes 5.2 seconds from 0–60 mph for the xDrive40i, 4.6 seconds for the xDrive50e, 4.2 seconds for the M60i and 3.7 seconds for the X5 M Competition. Independent testing can produce different results.

Does the 2026 BMW X5 have a third row?

No. The 2026 BMW X5 is a five-seat SUV. Buyers who need three rows can consider the larger BMW X7.

What is the electric BMW X5 called?

BMW calls the fully electric version the iX5. It is part of the fifth-generation X5 family arriving for the 2027 model year.

What is the starting price of the 2026 BMW X5?

For the U.S. market, Car and Driver lists the 2026 X5 range at approximately $69,750 to $95,050, depending on configuration. Actual pricing varies with options, fees and dealer pricing.

2026 BMW X5 Review: New Design, Performance, Technology and Features

2026 BMW X5: Quick Answer

Is the 2026 BMW X5 All-New?