2027 BMW X5 Launches with Gas and Electric Variants, Featuring 460 kW Charging
BMW has introduced the fifth-generation X5 for 2027, offering both combustion and electric powertrains on a shared platform. The electric iX5 features a 144 kWh battery, 450 miles of estimated range, and 460 kW fast charging. The gas X5 retains a 3.0-liter inline-six engine. Both models share a new digital interface and handleless door design.
Key points
- The 2027 X5 lineup includes the gas X5 40 xDrive, plug-in hybrid X5 50e, and electric iX5 60 xDrive, with a hydrogen variant planned for later.
- The iX5 offers 570 horsepower, 593 lb-ft of torque, and a 144 kWh battery pack using 120 mm cylindrical cells.
- Fast charging reaches 460 kW via a NACS port, enabling a 10-80% charge in approximately 22 minutes.
- The gas X5 40 xDrive starts at $72,100, while the iX5 60 xDrive starts at $79,800, with US deliveries beginning in Q1 2027.
- Both models feature the Panoramic Vision display, handleless doors, and BMW's new 'Heart of Joy' domain controller for vehicle dynamics.
Background
This launch follows BMW's introduction of the Neue Klasse design language in the 2027 3 Series and i3, which also shared powertrain-agnostic platforms. The X5 is BMW's best-selling model in the US, making its transition to multiple powertrains significant for the brand's market strategy.
How outlets are covering it
Ars Technica and InsideEVs emphasize the iX5's superior driving dynamics, range, and charging speed, arguing it is the preferred choice for most buyers. Car and Driver praises the gas X5's ride quality and engine smoothness but criticizes the new digital interface and handleless doors for lacking physical controls. BMWblog highlights the iX5's handling and regenerative braking but notes the sound system is inferior to the previous iX. All outlets agree the new design is polarizing, with some praising the Panoramic Vision display and others criticizing the loss of physical buttons.
Why it matters
The 2027 X5 demonstrates BMW's strategy to offer multiple powertrain options on a single platform to address consumer hesitation regarding electric vehicles. The iX5's 450-mile range and 460 kW charging capability position it as a competitive luxury EV, while the shared design and platform reduce costs and maintain brand consistency across the lineup.
What to watch
The gas X5 is available now, while the iX5 arrives in US dealerships in Q1 2027. A plug-in hybrid X5 50e and a hydrogen-powered variant are expected to follow. BMW will likely receive over-the-air updates to improve the infotainment system and driver assistance features.
- Electric or gas? BMW goes both ways with new 2027 X5 and iX5. Ars Technica
- 2027 BMW X5 Drives Great but May Be Too Weird for Some Car and Driver
- I Drove The Electric And Gas-Powered BMW X5. I Know Which One I'd Pick. InsideEVs
- 2027 BMW iX5 60 Review: I’d Replace My iX With It. Here’s What It Does Better, And What It Gives Up bmwblog
- 2027 BMW iX5 First Drive: You'll Love The Range, But Maybe Not The Look Engadget
Want the full story? Read the original reporting
Read on Ars Technica