2028 BMW iX5 Expert Review
Reviewed by Alex Leanse
The X5 is one of BMW’s most popular SUV models, and a new fifth-generation model is arriving for 2027. For 2028 an EV version called the iX5 will join the lineup; it effectively replaces the BMW iX .
The iX5 shares design and features with the standard X5, but has a battery-electric powertrain with strong range and charging specs. Luxury all-electric SUV rivals to the new 2028 BMW iX5 include the Audi Q6 E-Tron, Porsche Cayenne Electric, and Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class EV.
Based on new MitteKLasse CLAR architecture
Approximately 400 miles of driving range
Standard steel suspension springs; optional air suspension
Available all-wheel steering system
Upgraded self-driving capability
LED-illuminated grille surround
Adaptive LED headlights with double X pattern
Winglet door handles; optional power-operated doors
Panoramic sunroof included
21-, 22-, and 23-inch wheels available
11 paint color choices
Optional animated puddle lights
Standard vegan leather; Optional Merino leather
Four-zone climate control
Wide dashboard display plus 17.9-inch infotainment touchscreen
Optional front passenger touchscreen
3D ambient lighting details
Available stone trim panels
This page will be updated with more insights and photos as information becomes available.
iX5 All-Electric Powertrain
The iX5 60 xDrive will be the first model available, before versions with more and less power potentially arrive in the future. In 60 xDrive specification, the iX5 has a dual-motor AWD powertrain that produces 570 hp and 593 lb-ft of torque. BMW estimates the SUV’s 0–60 mph time at 4.7 seconds.
iX5 Range and Charging
Every iX5 60 xDrive is equipped with a 141-kWh battery . Although range ratings for the United States are not yet available, it’s expected to have nearly 400 miles of all-electric driving range. Thanks to the 800-volt electrical architecture, the iX5 can charge at more than 450 kW, which should allow for very fast recharging times.
iX5 EV vs. X5 PHEV
For drivers not yet ready to switch to all-electric, BMW offers the X5 50e xDrive. This plug-in hybrid model combines a turbocharged 3.0-liter I-6 engine with an electric motor for total output of 483 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. Its 0–60 mph time is estimated at 5.0 seconds.
All-electric driving range is the X5 PHEV’s main perk, and could be as high as 60 miles. For longer journeys, the engine runs in hybrid mode for easy refueling.
Safety and Driver-Assist Features
BMW will offer its newest active safety and self-driving technologies on the new iX5.
All versions of the new X5 will include as standard:
Automatic emergency braking
Side and rear cross-traffic alert
Lane-departure warning
Lane-keep assist
Adaptive cruise control
Blind-spot monitoring
Emergency evasive steering assist
Automatic high beams
Rain-sensing windshield wipers
Autonomous driving options for the iX5 include the Highway Assistant system, providing onramp-to-offramp control up to 81 mph, and the City Assistant system, which enables address-to-address self-driving capabilities in all sorts of typical traffic conditions.
How Big Is the BMW iX5?
Measurements between the iX5 and standard X5 are essentially identical. Compared to the outgoing X5, it’s longer in wheelbase and overall length, while width and height are reduced slightly.
2026 BMW X5
117.1 inches
194.2 inches
78.9 inches
69.1 inches
2027 BMW iX5
119.5 inches
196.8 inches
78.7 inches
68.6 inches
2027 BMW iX3
114.1 inches
188.3 inches
74.6 inches
64.4 inches
The new iX5 adopts tech features introduced on the iX3 . Primary among them is BMW’s Panoramic iDrive, a slim display strip that runs the full width of the dashboard to keep key information in sight.
The rhomboidal infotainment touchscreen measures 17.9-inch and manages major vehicle functions, including navigation, entertainment, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto , and other apps.
Drivers can interact with the system through illuminated touch-sensitive buttons on the steering wheel, or by using an AI voice assistant. A wireless charging pad is fitted up front, and both rows of seats get USB charging ports.
A Bowers & Wilkins premium audio system is available as an upgrade over the standard setup.
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Optional tech features in the 2028 iX5 include a head-up display, front passenger touchscreen, 360-degree camera, and AI-enhanced self-parking system.
When and How Much?
BMW will offer the iX5 with a number of interesting available features, such as include adaptive air suspension, all-wheel steering, power-operated doors, a panoramic sunroof, ventilated and massaging front seats, 3D ambient lighting panels, and stone interior trim.
Some drivers may need to adjust to the unconventional steering wheel, which has vertical rather than horizontal spokes.
The iX5 will be the first all-electric model to be produced at BMW’s manufacturing plant in Spartanburg, South Carolina. Production will begin after the standard X5, so expect an on-sale date midway through 2027. Pricing could begin at around $90,000.
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