Next-gen BMW X5 spied

BMW has been hiding the X5 prototypes with the heaviest of camouflages so far. The brand has even been spotted running odd-looking fabricated body parts on the test mules. These new images however finally show the real deal with all the right panels including the doors, hood and the new head lamps and taillights. 

In just five years of building it, BMW is going to replace the current-gen X5 with an all-new model in 2018. Codenamed G05, the new model will be based around the Cluster Architecture (CLAR) which is lighter, stiffer and more flexible than the current platform. The CLAR will be used by future BMW SUVs and smaller cars right from the 3-Series.

The next X5 will feature identical exterior dimensions as the outgoing model. Design wise, too, the new X5 will be close to its predecessor with an evolutionary look. Under the bonnet, however, a wide range of engines will be available from launch: four, six and eight-cylinder engines with up to 700bhp (for X5 M) will be on offer. 

Like the previous models, the 2018 X5 will be built at BMW’s Spartanburg factory in North Carolina, USA. When launched, it will complete with the latest-gen Audi Q7 and Volvo XC90.