Controversial Latest BMW Design
X5, once divisive, now hints at major changes
Let’s take a look at the concept car-based rendering
BMW’s ongoing design evolution has sparked both praise and controversy, but one model that has largely escaped the storm is the mid-size SUV, the X5. With its solid yet sporty silhouette, the X5 has balanced BMW’s hallmark elements with modern design trends. The 2023 facelift was well-received for updating the model without straying too far from the familiar formula.
However, the X5 will soon face its share of bold changes. Spy shots of the redesigned X5 prototype, expected to debut as early as the second half of 2025, have triggered excitement and skepticism. The design seems heavily influenced by BMW’s Vision Neue Klasse X concept, a clear nod to the automaker’s electrification future. So, what can we expect from the production model? Let’s look at the expected rendering by a famous illustrator.
A Striking Front-End Redesign: Grille-Integrated Lighting
Avarvarii, known for his accurate concept renderings, released an image of the next-generation BMW X5 on Instagram in early October. Though subtle changes hint at production car practicality, the front-end rendering draws significant inspiration from the Vision Neue Klasse X concept. Notably, the grille-integrated headlamps and the three-dimensional lighting stand out, closely mirroring the concept’s futuristic look. The bumper design also stays faithful to the concept’s vision.
The narrow vertical kidney grille, reminiscent of classic BMW models, adds to the car’s sporty and aggressive front. Additionally, the red accents on the brake calipers, steering wheel, and side mirrors suggest this rendering features the M package. So, how does this compare to the heavily camouflaged prototype recently spotted in testing?
Prototype Hints at Narrower Grille and Subtle Tweaks
The camouflaged X5 prototype, captured during field testing, doesn’t reveal much, but a few clues are worth noting. The headlamps appear to be temporary, and the only part of the front end visible is the lower air intake. The headlamp housing seems to taper outward, while the outline of the hood hints at a more sculpted, muscular design.
Though partially hidden, the kidney grille appears to be narrower than that of the current model, judging by the cutout in the camouflage. Interestingly, the lower bumper design differs significantly from the rendering. Still, it’s important to remember that the rendering leans heavily on the concept car’s aesthetic, especially when considering the differences between the standard model and the M sport variant.
Hidden Door Handles and a Shift Toward Hybrid Power
The hidden door handles are one of the most intriguing aspects of the new X5 design. The handles are barely visible in the prototype, but they are replaced by a small switch-style lever near the B and C pillars, a feature seen in the Vision Neue Klasse X concept. This echoes Ferrari’s Purosangue, which also drew attention for its hidden handles. However, it’s unclear if the mechanical door handles, partially visible in the rendering, will make it to production.
Meanwhile, there’s speculation that the current X5 M60i, BMW’s only V8-powered model aside from the X5 M, will be replaced by the M60e, a plug-in hybrid variant. Powered by a 3.0L inline-six twin-turbo engine, the M60e is expected to produce over 550 horsepower with an electric-only range of around 75 kilometers (47 miles). The redesigned X5 is scheduled to debut in late 2025, marking a significant shift in design and performance for BMW’s popular mid-size SUV.
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