Next-Gen BMW X5 (G65) Driven Overseas: 40 xDrive, 50e PHEV and iX5 EV Compared

Overseas media have just published first impressions of the all-new BMW X5 (G65), with three powertrain variants tested back-to-back: the petrol 40 xDrive, the plug-in hybrid 50e xDrive and the all-electric iX5. Surprisingly, the early consensus is that the new X5’s driving character has changed less than expected despite riding on a heavily updated CLAR-2 platform with substantial Neue Klasse-derived electronics. For Chinese buyers, the X5 lineup is the best benchmark for understanding how German luxury SUVs are responding to the Stelato G9, AITO M9 and Li Auto L9 — see our previous coverage of the Stelato G9 reveal for the broader context.

Three Variants, One Family Identity

BMW’s strategy with the G65 X5 is to offer three powertrains under one design language. The shared cabin features a curved 14.9-inch + 12.3-inch panoramic display, a redesigned center console with revised drive-mode controls, and the latest iDrive 9.5 software stack with native voice-AI integration. Exterior changes include slimmer headlamps with the new “BMW pixel” graphic, a more vertical kidney grille (smaller than recent X-series cars), and a flattened rear haunch that reduces visual weight.

X5 40 xDrive (Mild-Hybrid Petrol)

The base 40 xDrive uses an upgraded version of the B58 3.0-liter inline-six turbo with 48V mild-hybrid assistance, producing about 280 kW (376 hp) and 550 Nm. Overseas reviewers note a marginal improvement in throttle response over the previous-generation X5, with a more aggressive “Sport+” mode and a clearly retuned eight-speed automatic. 0–100 km/h sits at 5.1 seconds.

X5 50e xDrive (Plug-in Hybrid)

The new 50e PHEV pairs the 3.0-litre inline-six with an upgraded electric motor for a combined output of approximately 360 kW (483 hp). The PHEV battery has grown to roughly 30 kWh, pushing WLTP pure-electric range past 110 km — the longest in the class and class-leading among German luxury PHEVs. 0–100 km/h drops to 4.6 seconds, with the option to drive the entire urban commute on electricity alone.

iX5 (Pure Electric)

The all-new iX5 uses BMW’s Gen-6 e-drive technology and a 105 kWh nickel-rich battery, delivering approximately 340 kW (456 hp) in the launch dual-motor variant and a WLTP range of about 600 km. Charging is supported at up to 270 kW DC. Reviewers note that the iX5’s character is notably different from the petrol and PHEV variants — quieter, plusher and with a more aggressive single-pedal feel — but BMW has clearly worked to keep the iX5 dynamically connected to the rest of the X5 family.

Driving Feel: Surprisingly Preserved

The most consistent observation from overseas reviewers is that the X5’s driving feel has been preserved. The new chassis uses adaptive dampers as standard, with optional rear-wheel steering on the 50e and iX5 variants. Despite the addition of substantial electrification hardware, BMW has tuned the new X5 to maintain its “sport SUV” identity — quick steering off-center, balanced corner exit, and the slightly firm primary ride that defines the X-series. We’ve previously discussed how Chinese rivals are approaching dynamics in our Xiaomi SU7 Ultra Nürburgring prototype.

China Pricing and Launch Outlook

BMW has not announced China launch dates for the G65 X5, but the typical 6-month gap between European and Chinese launches suggests a Q2 2027 introduction is most likely. Expected pricing in China:

• X5 40 xDrive: from approximately 72万 RMB (~$99,300).
• X5 50e PHEV: from approximately 78万 RMB (~$107,600).
• iX5: from approximately 75万 RMB (~$103,400).

Why This Matters for Overseas Readers

1. Three-powertrain hedging: BMW’s decision to offer petrol, PHEV and EV variants of the same X5 is a clear hedge against uncertain regulatory paths in different markets — a strategy increasingly mirrored by other German OEMs.
2. Range-anxiety reduction in PHEV: The 50e’s 110-km WLTP electric range is a genuine differentiator versus the Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid (~90 km projected). This could re-energize the German PHEV-SUV segment.
3. Chinese tech response pressure: The G65 X5 lacks LiDAR, lacks Chinese-spec smart driving and doesn’t have a 800V architecture. In China, that means the X5 will compete on brand and dynamics rather than tech, putting pressure on BMW to accelerate its Neue Klasse roll-out for the Chinese market.

Editor’s Note

The new X5 is a competent evolution of a benchmark luxury SUV, but the segment has changed. In Europe and North America, the G65 X5 will likely retain its leadership position. In China, however, BMW now faces stiff competition from Stelato, AITO and Li Auto — and the X5’s lack of LiDAR or 800V technology is a meaningful handicap. We expect BMW to respond with the iX5 M variant and possibly a bespoke Chinese-market-specific iX5 with HUAWEI ADS integration in 2028.

FAQ

1. When will the new BMW X5 launch in China?
BMW has not announced a date, but a Q2 2027 launch is most likely based on the typical 6-month European-to-China gap.

2. What’s the difference between the 50e and the iX5?
The 50e is a plug-in hybrid that combines a 3.0L inline-six with an electric motor for ~360 kW total output and ~110 km WLTP electric range. The iX5 is fully electric, with ~340 kW output, a 105 kWh battery and ~600 km WLTP range.

3. Will the new X5 use Chinese smart-driving systems?
The launch X5 lineup does not integrate Chinese ADAS providers. BMW is expected to offer Chinese-specific ADAS partnerships in a 2028 model-year update.

4. How does the X5 compare to the Stelato G9 in China?
The Stelato G9 offers HUAWEI ADS 5.0, 896-line LiDAR and a 728 km BEV range — features the new X5 cannot match. However, the X5 retains the brand prestige and dynamic refinement that defines BMW.

Source: Autohome.com

Reviewed by Han Liu, Editor, iEVChina