BMW has officially taken the wraps off the fifth-generation X5, and with it comes a historic milestone: the all-new BMW iX5, the brand’s first fully electric version of its flagship Sports Activity Vehicle. Dubbed a “beast” by enthusiasts for its imposing presence, cutting-edge technology, and class-leading performance specs, the 2027 iX5 60 xDrive promises to blend BMW’s signature driving dynamics with serious long-range electric capability.
At the heart of the iX5 sits BMW’s largest-ever high-voltage battery pack in a production EV: a massive 144 kWh (usable capacity, with net figures around 141 kWh in some markets) using sixth-generation eDrive technology and taller 120 mm cylindrical cells in a cell-to-pack design. This setup delivers an impressive EPA-estimated range of up to 435 miles (approximately 700 km), making it one of the longest-range luxury electric SUVs on the market.
In WLTP testing (common in Europe and other markets), figures climb even higher, reaching up to 845 km depending on wheel and equipment choices. The 800-volt architecture enables ultra-fast DC charging at up to 460 kW, allowing significant range replenishment in minutes.
Power comes from a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system producing 578 hp (425 kW) and 805 Nm (594 lb-ft) of torque. BMW claims a 0-60 mph (0-100 km/h) sprint in about 4.4–4.6 seconds, with a top speed electronically limited to around 130 mph (210 km/h). The rear motor serves as the primary drive unit for efficiency, while the front adds traction and performance on demand.
The iX5 adopts BMW’s bold Neue Klasse design language, featuring a more monolithic and upright silhouette, new “double-X” daytime running lights, an illuminated Iconic Glow kidney grille, and distinctive BMW Winglet door handles. It remains visually close to the combustion X5 siblings but stands out with EV-specific cues like aerodynamically optimized wheels and a slightly sleeker profile (Cd around 0.28).
Inside, expect a Neue Klasse-inspired cabin with advanced displays (including Panoramic Vision), premium materials, and high-tech interfaces. Practicality remains strong with generous cargo space, a small frunk, and strong towing capability for an EV (up to around 2,700 kg / 6,000 lbs in many specs).
The 2027 BMW iX5 60 xDrive starts at approximately $81,250 (including destination) in the U.S., positioning it as a premium offering above base gas models. It will be the first fully electric vehicle produced at BMW’s Spartanburg plant in South Carolina
The broader 2027 X5 lineup offers unprecedented choice: gasoline, diesel, plug-in hybrid (including a potent M60e), the new iX5 EV, and a hydrogen fuel-cell version planned for later. The gas-powered X5 arrives first in late 2026, with the iX5 following in Q1 2027.
The iX5 isn’t just another electric SUV — it’s BMW doubling down on “power of choice” while pushing electric performance boundaries. With its enormous battery, rapid charging, strong acceleration, and luxury credentials, it directly challenges rivals like the Porsche Cayenne Electric, Rivian R1S, and Mercedes EQ models.
BMW has turned its bestseller into a multi-powertrain powerhouse, and the all-electric iX5 may well become the halo model that defines the next chapter for the X5 nameplate.
