The next-gen BMW X5 has been in development for a while now. Although the current model has only been on sale since mid-2013, it looks like BMW is preparing an all-new version rather than a mid-cycle refresh. We saw snow-covered prototypes way back in January. Just last month, we saw the next version of the wonderfully over-the-top X5 M. These new spy shots show an X5 with production-spec parts like headlights and the kidney bean grille.
Currently, the X5 sits atop the BMW range. That doesn’t seem like it will last for long, as the new X7 looks ready to take the crown. Through the camouflage we can see that, like most other BMWs, the styling is just an evolution of the current car. It simply looks like a larger version of the recently revealed BMW X3. The grille is significantly larger and more forward than on the current X5. The sharp lines along the door have been smoothed out, but it looks like the small vent behind the front wheels will remain.
The new X5 should pack all the same powertrains as the current BMW 5-Series. That means everything from a turbocharged inline-four up to a 600-plus horsepower twin-turbo V8 for the X5 M. There will likely be a plug-in variant based coming sometime soon. Like the current car, the new X5 will be built in BMW’s factory in South Carolina. Look for a full reveal sometime this auto show season.
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