BMW has officially revealed the all-new fifth-generation X5 ahead of its South African launch in 2027.

The SUV was unveiled at BMW’s Spartanburg plant in South Carolina after being teased in camouflaged images earlier in June.

The new X5 adopts BMW’s Neue Klasse design language, following models such as the iX3 and i3.

However, it still uses an updated version of the CLAR platform.

That means the X5 will continue to offer combustion engines, plug-in hybrid power and, for the first time, a fully electric iX5 variant.

Bold design changes

The new X5 gets slimmer kidney grilles with BMW’s Iconic Glow illuminated surround.

It also features a redesigned rear section and alloy wheels ranging from 21 inches to 23 inches.

One of the biggest exterior changes is the removal of traditional door handles.

BMW has replaced them with touch-sensitive “winglets” recessed into the B- and C-pillars.

With the optional Pioneer Package, automatic door opening and soft-closing functionality will be standard.

BMW has also dropped the X5’s signature split-opening tailgate, reportedly because of customer feedback.

Big cabin upgrade

Inside, the X5 takes a major step forward.

The cabin gets BMW’s Panoramic iDrive display under the windscreen and a 17.7-inch infotainment screen.

A 14.6-inch passenger display will also be available as an option.

The SUV also gets a new steering wheel, a V-shaped centre console and BMW’s latest Operation X operating system.

BMW says many of the interior textiles are made from recycled materials.

Boot space ranges from 655 litres to 1 850 litres in combustion and iX5 models.

Plug-in hybrid versions offer between 525 litres and 1 650 litres.

SA line-up confirmed

The new X5 will enter production at Spartanburg in late November.

BMW has approved the SUV for South Africa, where it will launch next year.

The local line-up will include the 40d xDrive diesel, the 50e xDrive plug-in hybrid and the fully electric iX5.

The 40d xDrive uses a 3.0-litre straight-six turbodiesel with mild-hybrid assistance.

The 50e xDrive combines a 3.0-litre petrol engine with a 26.5kWh battery pack, producing 360kW and 700Nm.

At the top of the range, the iX5 uses a 144kWh battery and dual electric motors.

BMW claims the iX5 can deliver up to 845km of range and charge from 10% to 80% in 22 minutes.

South African pricing is expected to be announced in 2027.