Overview
The all-new BMW iX5 continues the completely new era for the German brand, taking its legendary luxury large SUV and giving it a dedicated battery-electric option for the first time. Operating on BMW's next-generation electric architecture, it effectively replaces the iX, merging traditional premium SUV utility with cutting-edge Neue Klasse technology. It enters a fiercely competitive luxury sector, positioned to directly challenge the Porsche Cayenne Electric, Audi Q6 e-tron, and the Lucid Gravity.
Design
BMW adopts what it calls a monolithic design language for the iX5, giving it an imposing road presence. The exterior styling features a very high, flat bonnet line and deep, upright side panels that contribute to a solid, sculpted appearance. Up front, the iconic kidney grille is slim, modern, and fully illuminated, flanked by sleek headlamps that showcase a distinct X graphic light signature. Flush-fitting winglet door handles operate new electrically powered doors, maintaining a clean side profile despite the massive dimensions of the vehicle, which spans nearly 5 metres in length and 2 metres in width.
Interior
The cabin is heavily inspired by minimalist Scandinavian design trends and introduces premium, eco-friendly materials. For the first time, BMW offers authentic slate stone as a decorative surface, alongside high-end options like patina-heavy vintage leather. The digital interface is dominated by the Panoramic iDrive display which projects crisp, clear graphics right under the widescreen base, working alongside a centrally mounted touchscreen. While the reduction of physical switches creates an ultra-clean layout, it does require navigating multi-layered menus to adjust common settings. The seats are exceptionally supportive, mounting lower to the floor than expected to offer a commanding driving position.
Performance & Powertrains
Underpinned by a cutting-edge 800V electrical architecture, the launch model iX5 60 xDrive utilizes a dual-motor setup generating 578hp and 594lb ft of torque. This delivers an effortless 0-62mph acceleration time of 4.6 seconds and a top speed of 130mph. It houses a massive 141kWh battery pack, delivering a class-leading range of 525 miles. Charging speeds are revolutionary, capable of pulling up to 460kW at compatible ultra-rapid DC stations to replenish the battery from 10 to 80% in around 15 minutes. On the move, the driving dynamics mask its heavy weight beautifully by adaptive air suspension and the high-speed processing power of the new Heart of Joy superbrain chassis control system.
Practicality
Despite the extensive electrical hardware beneath the floor, cabin space remains highly competitive. Rear passengers enjoy generous leg room and a flat floor layout. Luggage space is expansive, easily accommodating large suitcases and equipment, though the lack of a frunk under the high bonnet hinders this slightly. The iX5 makes up for this though with 655 liters of boot space, expanding to 1850 liters with the rear seats folded flat.
Buying
Pricing for the BMW iX5 is expected to start from approximately £75,000 for the xDrive60 launch model when deliveries begin later this year. Standard equipment across the range includes the advanced Level 2 semi-autonomous driving package, the AI-driven Symbiotic Drive voice system, and massive multi-spoke alloy wheels. The EV Hub recommended configuration is the iX5 60 xDrive with the standard 20-inch wheels to maximize the exceptional 525-mile driving range.