2027 bmw x5 hands on preview videoThe X5 is entering its Neue Klasse era, and it's arriving with more powertrain options than ever before.I don't need to tell you how pivotal the X5 was (and is) to BMW. Arriving in 1999 as the brand's first utility vehicle, the X5 kicked off a range of models that now spans as many sizes as BMW's car lineup. The X5 arguably defines its class the same way the 3 Series does for its own, so a new generation is an important launch. For 2027, BMW will launch the fifth-generation X5-and it's the most dramatic take on the model since it debuted.It turns out Neue Klasse isn't so much a platform as it is a state of mind, and its influence will spread across the entire lineup. The X5 thus has a look that is clearly influenced by the iX3, though it isn't without its own touches. The most noticeable is the light signature: while the LED daytime running lights (DRLs) can be simple slashes behind the wide lenses, drivers can swap for X shapes. The tall kidney grille lights up as standard, too.AdvertisementAdvertisementAfter changing up its door handles for iX3, BMW has done it again with the wholesale removal of them, all in the name of clean side surfacing. In their place are small winglets at the base of the side windows. These are touch sensitive: squeeze and the door pops open. Soft-close doors are standard for a touch of fancy, and buyers wanting an extra dose can even spec power-operated portals.It wouldn't be an X5 without big wheels, and the fifth-generation model rolls on examples up to 23 inches in diameter.Just in case this wasn't all different enough on its own, the rear of the X5 ditches a feature the model has had its whole life until now: the split tailgate. Yep, the G65-generation model sticks to a standard (power-operated, of course) liftgate.2027 bmw x5 hands on preview videoStepping inside, the new X5 follows the iX3's lead once more. The cabin design is pared back and unequivocally modern, from the new wheel and its odd spoke positioning to the X motif on the door stitching. The example I got to experience had the BMW Individual cabin, with soft Merino leather seating and ample Alcantara surfacing. BMW is taking a more subtle approach to ambient lighting than Mercedes: it's indirect in the X5, and there's a subtle movement to the pattern that gives waves-on-a-lake vibes.AdvertisementAdvertisementEasily the stand-out feature here is the use of real slate on the center console. Not only is it pleasant to the touch, it's a smart contrast with the crystal controls.2027 BMW X5: All The Details2027 BMW X5: All The DetailsView Gallery45 photosBMW's "Shy Tech" contextual menus, the Panoramic Display across the base of the windshield, and the angular center touchscreen are all familiar (and well-liked) from the iX3. There are updates here: some are practical while others, like the addition of Art Cars to be dropped on the Panoramic Display, are less so. Owners can also upload their own background images. The X5 can be optioned with the passenger-side screen found on the refreshed 7 Series: it has an automatic dimming safety feature to not distract the driver. Should your passenger be so inclined, they can stream video or play video games. Anything from actually interacting with the other person in the car…2027 bmw x5 hands on preview video2027 BMW X5: Powertrains AplentyThis is the iX5, so no prizes for guessing what powers it. A dual-motor setup packs a healthy upgrade in power over the iX3: 570 horsepower and 594 pound-feet of torque. It also pulls from a massive 141.0-kilowatt-hour battery pack, with BMW estimating 400 to 525 miles of range (645 to 845 kilometers) on the more optimistic WLTP cycle. The iX5 can also charge at up to 460 kW; at those speeds it can do the 10 to 80 percent recharge in just 23 minutes.AdvertisementAdvertisementThere will be an X5 powertrain for everyone. The traditional inline-six returns, with the mild hybrid setup from the X3 producing a healthy 394 hp. BMW will also port over the existing model's plug-in hybrid powertrain, while also using it as a base for the first M-badged model of this generation. The X5 M60e xDrive pumps up the turbocharged six-cylinder for 603 combined system horsepower (120 more than the "regular" PHEV), while also benefitting from larger wheels and a tighter steering ratio. Of course, Europe will see a diesel model, while North America passes on it. Some time after launch, a hydrogen fuel-cell X5 will also join the lineup.Remember, this is just the beginning of the G65-generation X5; we expect more powertrain options to arrive over the next few years at the plant in Spartanburg, South Carolina. Will BMW fans balk at the different design direction? Will it still drive as well as the current SUV? We look forward to finding out.Become an AutoGuide insider. Get the latest from the automotive world first by subscribing to our newsletter here.2027 BMW iX5 60: All The Details2027 BMW iX5 60: All The DetailsView Gallery14 photos