2018 BMW X5 spied taking on the Nurburgring

The current generation BMW X5 has been in the market for just five years now. But BMW is already out testing the new generation of the X5 SUV which will be based on an all-new platform. Our spy photographers spotted the test mule being tested on Germany’s most famous racetrack.

Given that BMW is famous for being the best driven dynamic cars, the new X5 being pushed to the limits on the notorious Nurburgring doesn’t come as a surprise. The new generation X5 (codenamed G05) will employ the new generation 7 Series’ underpinnings. The innovative Cluster Architecture (CLAR), which debuted in the 7 Series, is lighter, stiffer and more flexible than the current platform and will be used by all future vehicles from BMW, even the new upcoming flagship SUV, the X7. The new platform will help the new X5 lose a considerable amount of weight, thus scoring more in driving dynamics.

The test mule, though highly camouflaged, reveals an all-new bumper with integrated exhaust at the rear and additional air intakes up front. The large kidney grille is as imposing as before, and the headlight cluster will carry the new BMW family design. Apart from losing weight, the new platform also helps the new X5 grow in dimension, thus clearing up more cabin space on the inside. The new interior set-up from the 5 Series shall also be seen in the new X5.

Engine-wise, there will be a host of powertrain options ranging from inline-four, straight-six to range-topping V8. A four-cylinder plug-in hybrid is also on the cards since the CLAR platform also supports an alternative powertrain. The performance oriented X5M will debut in coming years as well. 

BMW’s model offensive of launching 40 vehicles in two years could see the new gen X5 hit the roads sometime next year after an official debut in late 2017. When it arrives, the X5 will continue to battle against the likes of the Mercedes-Benz GLE, Audi Q7 and Volvo XC90.