5 Things We Love About The 2027 BMW X5 After Our First Drive

BMW’s foundational SUV undergoes its most radical transformation in nearly three decades for the 2027 model year.

Entering its fifth generation, the 2027 BMW X5 serves as the latest flagship for the brand's next-generation "Neue Klasse" (New Class) platform, introducing cutting-edge supercomputing architecture, retro-inspired styling, and an expansive mix of powertrains. Starting at $69,800, this overhauled luxury crossover elevates both performance and cabin technology.

Here are 5 things to love about the 2027 BMW X5:

1. Updated B58 Inline-6 Engine Delivers Power and Efficiency

The core volume model—the X5 40—retains BMW's acclaimed 3.0-liter B58 inline-six engine, heavily upgraded with larger turbochargers, a redesigned intercooler, a new cylinder head, and a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. Generating a potent 394 horsepower and 428 lb-ft of torque, it propels the midsize SUV with turbine-smooth acceleration while delivering an exceptional 26 MPG combined (24 city / 28 highway) rating in all-wheel-drive configuration.

2. Next-Gen "Neue Klasse" Tech with Panoramic Vision Display

The 2027 X5 bids farewell to the long-standing iDrive rotary controller in favor of an all-new cabin layout. Front and center is the Panoramic Vision Display, a pillar-to-pillar projection system along the base of the windshield that replaces traditional physical gauge clusters. Paired with a massive 16.9-inch central infotainment touchscreen and an available dedicated front-passenger screen, the interior offers an ultra-modern, highly customizable digital experience.

3. All-Electric iX5 Flagship Packs Massive Range and Ultra-Fast Charging

Joining the lineup is the all-electric iX5 60 xDrive, powered by dual electric motors producing 578 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. Fitted with BMW's largest battery pack to date—a 144-kWh unit utilizing Gen 6 cylindrical cells—the EV variant targets an estimated driving range of over 400 miles (700 km). Thanks to an advanced electrical architecture capable of charging at speeds up to 460 kW, drivers can add up to 170 miles of range in just 10 minutes at compatible high-speed stations.

4. Advanced "Heart of Joy" Supercomputer and XM-Derived Chassis Dynamics

Despite its shift toward luxury and tech, the X5 retains its signature driver-focused DNA. The vehicle incorporates BMW's new "Heart of Joy" driving dynamics supercomputer, which consolidates dozens of individual processing modules into a single control unit operating up to 20 times faster than previous systems. Electric models benefit from adaptive dampers, air suspension, rear-wheel steering, and active roll stabilization technology derived from the BMW XM, keeping body roll to a minimum around twisty mountain roads.

5. Striking Retro-Futuristic Styling with Pillar-Mounted Door Winglets

Drawing visual inspiration from 1960s BMW heritage models, the 2027 X5 abandons oversized vertical kidney grilles for a sleek, horizontal black panel set between "X"-shaped daytime running lights. Designers eliminated traditional exterior door handles entirely, replacing them with flush electronic winglets mounted directly on the window pillars. The cleaner side profile accentuates the vehicle's wider, muscular proportions and supports new optional power-automatic opening doors.

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