The new BMW X5 has been revealed, with the German brand’s local division confirming which of the 5 announced powertrain options are coming to South Africa…
- New X5 unwrapped in South Carolina
- Coming to South Africa in early 2027
- 3 powertrain options confirmed for SA
Meet the new BMW X5. Revealed in South Carolina in the United States, where it will be built at Plant Spartanburg, the 5th-generation model is scheduled to arrive in South Africa in “early 2027”, according to the brand’s local division. But which powertrain options will be available in Mzansi?
Well, the Munich-based brand – which bills the new G65-series X5 as its first model “with 5 different drive system types” – will be available in 3 flavours in South Africa at launch. Yes, BMW Group SA says the turbodiesel X5 xDrive40d xDrive, the plug-in hybrid X5 50e xDrive and the fully electric iX5 60 xDrive will be offered locally.
That means our market will miss out on – at first, at least – the turbopetrol X5 40 xDrive and the plug-in hybrid X5 M60e xDrive. South Africa will also seemingly forgo the iX5 Hydrogen (scheduled to be offered in certain markets “at a later stage”), which is set to become the first series-production hydrogen-powered model from BMW.
But back to the models set to be offered locally. The X5 xDrive40d xDrive employs a 3.0-litre straight-6 turbodiesel motor generating 210 kW and 650 Nm, outputs that match those of the outgoing (and likewise mild-hybrid-equipped) xDrive30d. Still, total system outputs are listed as 230 kW and 670 Nm, seemingly boosted by the 48V system.
Meanwhile, the X5 50e xDrive features a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) powertrain comprising a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-6 petrol engine, an electric motor and a 26.5 kWh (net) lithium-ion battery pack. Peak system outputs stand at 360 kW and 700 Nm, again matching those of the outgoing X5 xDrive50e. Expect a 0-100 kph sprint of around 5.0 seconds.
Finally, the iX5 60 xDrive – which will arrive as the first battery-electric X5 – boasts an electric motor on each axle, resulting in total system outputs of 425 kW and 805 Nm. The lithium-ion battery pack has a net energy content of 141 kWh, which BMW claims will provide up to 845 km of range (on the WLTP cycle). This EV’s 0-100 kph time comes in at a claimed 4.6 seconds, with top speed limited to 210 kph.
The new X5’s front end is defined by its vertically aligned (and illuminated) kidney grille along with new “double-X” light icons. Inside, you’ll find the latest “BMW Panoramic iDrive” display, a passenger-side screen and the “BMW Panoramic Vision”, with the latter’s projection surface extending across the full width of the windscreen.
In South Africa, BMW Individual Merino Leather upholstery is expected to be offered as part of the Deluxe Package, along with Alcantara headliner and door and dashboard trim. There will also be new decorative surfaces constructed from materials such as slate, which BMW Group SA says will be “available as standard equipment in South Africa”.
With a listed length of 4 994 mm, the new BMW X5 is some 59 mm longer than the current G05-series model. Despite riding on an updated version of the same platform, the new model’s wheelbase has also grown, increasing from 2 975 mm to 3 035 mm.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: When will the 5th-generation BMW X5 launch in South Africa and where will it be built?
A: The newly revealed, 5th-generation BMW X5 (G65 series) is scheduled to arrive in South Africa in early 2027. The premium SUV will continue to be manufactured at BMW’s Plant Spartanburg facility in South Carolina, United States.
Q: Which specific powertrain options have been confirmed for the South African market at launch?
A: Out of the five global drive systems, BMW Group SA has confirmed three variants for Mzansi: the 230 kW 3.0-litre turbodiesel mild-hybrid (xDrive40d), the 360 kW plug-in hybrid (50e xDrive) and the first-ever fully electric X5—the 425 kW iX5 60 xDrive, which boasts up to 845 km of WLTP range.
Q: How have the dimensions of the new BMW X5 changed compared to the outgoing model?
A: The new X5 has grown physically, measuring 4 994 mm in total length, which is 59 mm longer than the previous G05-series model. Additionally, its wheelbase has been extended by 60 mm, stretching from 2 975 mm up to 3 035 mm to enhance cabin space.
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