In a first-drive 2027 BMW X5 review for The Drive, writer Adam Ismail scores the fifth-generation SUV 7.5 out of 10, noting that while it is less dynamic than its electric sibling, it successfully pairs a smooth, reliable inline-six engine with a futuristic yet surprisingly thoughtful design. Built at BMW's Spartanburg plant in South Carolina - where the nameplate began nearly 30 years ago as a “Sports Activity Vehicle” - this generation marks what Ismail calls arguably the biggest departure in the model's history.
The new lineup takes a two-pronged powertrain approach designed to satisfy traditionalists while addressing future demands, aligning its internal-combustion and electric models in styling, cabin technology, and driving feel. Note that BMW provided The Drive with travel, accommodations, and a test vehicle for its review.
Pricing, Powertrain, and Performance
Ismail's review focuses on the mild-hybrid 2027 BMW X5 40 xDrive, which is arriving at dealerships now starting at $73,550 delivered ($83,700 as tested). A rear-wheel-drive variant is available for $2,300 less, while the all-electric iX5 60 xDrive sits alongside the gas models.
Under the hood, the B58 3.0-liter inline-six engine features a new turbocharger and a 48-volt mild-hybrid system paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. Output climbs by 19 horsepower to 394 hp, while torque increases from 383 to 428 lb-ft, taking the base X5 from 0 to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds.
Ismail observes that the inline-six sits noticeably low inside the engine bay. He suggests this placement could be a byproduct of the shared architecture with the electric iX5, which includes a front trunk (frunk).
Neue Klasse Exterior Design
The fifth-generation model brings BMW's core SUV into the Neue Klasse design era, cleanly breaking from past iterations. While acknowledging largely negative public reactions to the brand's recent styling, Ismail notes he liked the earlier Neue Klasse X concept for its low beltline, wide greenhouse, and simplified front and rear bumpers.
In production form, the reviewer thinks BMW took the foundation of an attractive vehicle and made it overly brick-like and busy, though he says that reflects the brand's current identity and he does not completely dislike the outcome. He even excuses the X-shaped daytime running lights, preferring them over another generic lightbar.
Cabin Tech, Panoramic iDrive, and Slate Trim
Inside, the cabin undergoes an equally dramatic overhaul that Ismail finds mostly successful. A highlight is Panoramic iDrive, which projects a strip of readouts across the bottom of the windshield in a sleek, non-distracting layout. Aside from the speedometer, every widget from left to right is programmable, allowing drivers to rearrange, replace, or delete items to clear their visual field.
Although the main center display is massive, the review finds its user interface far less frustrating than the infotainment system in the 550e xDrive tested earlier in 2026, thanks to spacious on-screen buttons and well-spaced graphics. While Ismail wishes for physical climate toggles, he praises the dedicated shortcut buttons for seat and door settings, as well as the controversial steering wheel, which he found wonderfully sculpted for a 9-and-3 grip with clear, responsive haptic controls.
Cabin materials also earn high marks in the review, including a suede-lined dashboard and meticulously backlit faux-aluminum trim that creates the illusion of light rays filtering through the nearby crystalline door controls. Ismail's favorite detail is the slab of real slate past the center console housing the shifter and drive controls - which BMW claims is the first use of slate in a car interior - praising both its look and tactile feel.
On-Road Driving Impressions
On the road, Ismail describes the gas-powered X5 as comfortable and confident, though not suited to being hustled through corners. Surprisingly, he found the heavier electric iX5 to be a more willing partner on canyon roads, which he attributes to its lower center of gravity.
Even in its most aggressive Sport mode, the X5 40 is not engineered to significantly stiffen the ride or eliminate body roll; drivers seeking sharper handling will need to wait for an M variant, according to the reviewer. Furthermore, while the B58 engine remains sturdy and smooth, it keeps such a mild-mannered acoustic profile in the base X5 that the electric version occasionally feels louder.
2027 BMW X5 40 xDrive Specifications
| Specification | 2027 BMW X5 40 xDrive |
| Base Price (as tested) | $73,550 ($83,700) |
| Powertrain | 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six with 48-volt mild hybrid system | 8-speed automatic | all-wheel drive |
| Horsepower | 394 hp @ 5,200-6,500 rpm |
| Torque | 428 lb-ft @ 1,980-5,000 rpm |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Cargo Volume | 27.3-67.7 cu. ft. |
| Curb Weight | 5,213 pounds |
| 0-60 mph | 5.1 seconds |
| Top Speed | 130 mph (electronically limited) |
| Fuel Economy (preliminary) | 24 mpg city | 28 mpg highway | 26 mpg combined |
| The Drive Score | 7.5/10 |
Final Verdict: Bridging Gas and Electric Buyers
According to Ismail, the defining achievement of the fifth-generation X5 at launch is how seamlessly BMW has matched the internal-combustion and electric experiences across design, cabin tech, and behind-the-wheel feel. While habitual X5 buyers might feel somewhat threatened by the SUV's more progressive traits, the reviewer concludes that the vehicle serves as an ideal bridge for shoppers undecided about switching to an EV.
This article was written by AI from reporting by thedrive.com.
