- The next-gen X5 will adopt the carmaker’s Neue Klasse design language.
- Unfortunately, the new X5 will ditch the current model’s split tailgate.
- Key visual changes will include new grilles and headlights with different DRLs.
The next round of BMW reveals was always going to stir something up, and this one already has. The brand’s U.S. dealers have now seen the next-generation X5 and X7 in the metal, and like a good deal of recent BMW product, the cars look set to divide opinion. The headline from the room is that the new X5 drops one of its more useful party tricks.
While presenting more than a dozen new vehicles for the BMW, Mini, and Rolls-Royce brands to dealers in Nashville, attendees have confirmed the new X5 will lose the useful split tailgate of the current model. This appeared to be the case when leaked images of the new X5 surfaced a couple of months ago, but this is our first time receiving confirmation.
Read: BMW Leak Reveals Two Very Different Futures For 2028 X5 And 7-Series Facelift
As those March photos showed, the new X5 will look very different than the outgoing one. The front-end will adopt a similar Neue Klasse design to the second-generation iX3, complete with small, illuminated kidney grilles and redesigned headlights with X-shaped daytime running lights.
Photos asatur.price/Instagram
One attendee who spoke to Auto News said that the Neue Klasse X5 will look slightly more compact than we’re used to. As for the rear, it will include narrow new LED taillights and a bumper using body-colored and black elements. The inclusion of a traditional tailgate is a shame, but it will probably help BMW save money on the new X5.
New X7 Will Be More Wagon-Like
It’s not just a new X5 that’s around the corner. The all-new X7 was also shown to dealerships. It will apparently be more “wagon-like” with a “bolder look.” Recent spy shots show that the overall design won’t be a radical departure from the existing model, with similar split headlights and kidney grilles.
New BMW X7
Alpina is also gearing up to release new models in the US, based on the 7-Series and X7, both of which are set to sport updated fascias and new grilles. In customary Alpina style, they will also have heavily upgraded interiors, offering up a more high-end feel.