BMW’s next-generation X5 is getting closer to production, and the German automaker is clearly entering the final stages of development. New prototypes of the redesigned luxury SUV have been spotted lapping the Nürburgring, giving us one of the clearest looks yet at both the gasoline and fully electric versions of the upcoming model.
The current-generation X5 first arrived back in 2018, which means it is rapidly approaching the end of BMW’s usual product cycle. With the company aggressively rolling out its Neue Klasse design language and next-generation EV technology, the X5 is shaping up to become one of BMW’s most important launches of the next few years.
Interestingly, BMW appears to be developing the next X5 in both internal-combustion and electric forms simultaneously. Spy footage from the Nürburgring shows nearly identical prototypes circulating the track, with subtle differences hinting at how BMW plans to separate the gas-powered X5 from the upcoming iX5.
The testing also suggests BMW is prioritizing driving dynamics despite the SUV’s growing size and weight. Even camouflaged prototypes looked surprisingly composed through the Nürburgring’s high-speed corners, signaling that BMW still wants the X5 to feel sharper than most luxury SUVs in its class.
Neue Klasse Styling Is Clearly Taking Shape
Although both prototypes remain heavily camouflaged, the next-generation X5’s overall design is becoming much easier to identify. BMW’s Neue Klasse styling language is unmistakable here, borrowing several themes already previewed on upcoming BMW EV concepts and the recently revealed iX3.
The front end appears taller and cleaner than the current X5, with slimmer lighting elements and a more upright grille treatment. Unlike the dramatic oversized kidney grilles seen on some recent BMW models, this new design looks noticeably more restrained.
The overall body shape also appears smoother and more aerodynamic. Flush surfaces, simplified detailing, and tighter proportions suggest BMW is chasing improved efficiency, especially for the electric version.
Despite the cleaner styling direction, the X5 still looks unmistakably like an X5. BMW has not radically reinvented the SUV’s proportions, likely recognizing how important the model remains to its global lineup.
Gas And Electric Models Share A Similar Look
One of the most interesting details from the Nürburgring testing is just how similar the ICE and EV versions appear. Unlike the current BMW lineup, where electric models often sit on entirely separate architectures, the next X5 and iX5 seem to share much of their body structure.
The electric model appears slightly lower to the ground, likely due to its battery packaging and aerodynamic priorities. Its front and rear bumpers also seem smoother, with fewer visible cooling openings compared to the gas-powered version.
Meanwhile, the combustion-powered X5 prototype rides slightly higher and appears to feature additional airflow management for engine cooling. Spy footage also captured the gasoline model producing a subdued inline-six soundtrack during testing.
That engine note lines up with previous reports suggesting the next X5 will continue offering six-cylinder powertrains. Whether BMW will retain a V8 option remains unclear at this stage.
BMW Is Still Serious About Driving Dynamics
Even though modern luxury SUVs continue growing heavier, BMW appears determined to keep the X5 engaging to drive. Nürburgring testing remains one of the clearest signs that the company is tuning the chassis aggressively before launch.
Both prototypes looked surprisingly stable at speed. The electric version appeared especially planted through corners, while the gas-powered model displayed slightly more body movement under hard direction changes.
That difference likely comes down to weight distribution and suspension tuning. The electric iX5’s floor-mounted battery pack naturally lowers its center of gravity, helping improve stability despite the additional weight.
BMW has historically marketed the X5 as one of the sportier SUVs in its class, and nothing about these early test sessions suggests the company is abandoning that philosophy for the next generation.
The Next X5 Could Arrive Very Soon
Rumors surrounding BMW’s future product roadmap have pointed toward the next X5 debuting as part of the company’s 2027 lineup. Given how heavily the prototypes are now testing in public, an official reveal could happen sooner rather than later.
BMW has been rapidly accelerating development of its Neue Klasse family, with upcoming models including the next-generation 3 Series, electric i3 sedan, iX3 crossover, and future M performance EVs already spotted testing extensively.
The X5 will likely become one of the most important members of that rollout. It remains one of BMW’s global best-sellers and serves as a core model in both North America and Europe.
If BMW can successfully blend long-range EV technology, traditional combustion power, updated luxury tech, and the sharp driving manners buyers expect from the brand, the next-generation X5 could end up becoming one of the most important luxury SUVs of the decade.