New BMW X5 To Get Hydrogen Power Alongside EV And Hybrid

BMW has pulled the covers off the fifth-generation X5, and this time the luxury SUV is not just about a new design or a tech-filled cabin. The biggest update is under the hood, as BMW is expanding the X5 lineup with multiple powertrain options, including petrol, diesel, plug-in hybrid, electric and an upcoming hydrogen-powered version.

The new X5 reflects BMW's strategy of offering different powertrain choices instead of focusing on just one technology. Whether buyers prefer a conventional engine, an EV or a hydrogen-powered SUV, the new X5 will have an option for them.

Hydrogen-Powered X5 Confirmed

BMW has officially confirmed that a production-spec iX5 Hydrogen will join the lineup after the launch of the petrol, diesel, hybrid and electric versions.

The SUV will use BMW's latest hydrogen fuel-cell technology, developed in partnership with Toyota. It stores hydrogen in two carbon-fibre tanks and converts it into electricity to power the electric motor.

The company says the hydrogen model will produce 401hp and can be refuelled in just a few minutes, offering a driving experience similar to a conventional petrol or diesel vehicle while producing zero tailpipe emissions.

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First Electric X5 Makes Its Debut

Alongside the hydrogen announcement, BMW has also introduced the iX5 60 xDrive, marking the arrival of the first fully electric X5.

The electric SUV uses a 141kWh battery pack with an 800V architecture and a dual-motor setup that produces 578hp and 805Nm.

BMW claims a 0-100kmph time of 4.6 seconds, a top speed of 210kmph and a WLTP-certified range of up to 845km.

Charging is equally impressive, with support for 460kW DC fast charging, allowing the battery to go from 10 to 80 percent in around 23 minutes. It also supports 22kW AC charging and bidirectional charging.

Hybrid Models Continue To Play A Key Role

Plug-in hybrids remain an important part of the X5 lineup.

The X5 50e xDrive produces 489hp and 700Nm, while the sportier X5 M60e xDrive delivers 612hp and 800Nm. Both variants can drive up to 102km in pure electric mode under the WLTP cycle before the petrol engine steps in.

Customers who still prefer conventional engines can choose between a 400hp petrol mild-hybrid or a 313hp diesel version.

Fresh Look Inside And Out

The new X5 also receives a noticeable styling update.

It gets a more upright front end with BMW's illuminated kidney grille, new LED lighting signatures and redesigned bumpers. New alloy wheel designs measuring 21 to 23 inches further enhance its road presence.

Inside, BMW has completely redesigned the cabin. The dashboard now features the brand's Panoramic iDrive display, a 17.9-inch infotainment touchscreen, a 3D head-up display and an optional passenger display.

Other features include a panoramic sunroof, ventilated and massage front seats, soft-close doors, wireless charging, a Bowers & Wilkins audio system, over-the-air updates and four-zone climate control.

Advanced Safety Package

BMW has equipped the new X5 with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance systems.

The SUV offers Level 2 ADAS with adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, highway driving assist, parking assist and automatic emergency braking. It also gets multiple airbags, electronic stability control and a tyre pressure monitoring system.

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When Will It Go On Sale?

Production of the fifth-generation X5 will begin at BMW's Spartanburg plant in the United States in August 2026.

The petrol and diesel variants will arrive in global markets from late November 2026, while the plug-in hybrid and electric iX5 models will follow in early 2027. BMW has not yet announced a launch date for the hydrogen-powered version, but it has confirmed that it will be added to the lineup at a later stage.