Next-Gen BMW iX5 M Prototype Spotted Testing, Launch Expected in 2028

A heavily camouflaged prototype of the next-generation BMW X5 M (codenamed G95) was recently spotted undergoing road testing in Germany. Despite extensive camouflage, key upgrades over the iX5 are discernible in its front-end design, braking system, and powertrain layout. The new model features a unique twin-kidney grille design distinct from the flatter, sealed grilles of the iX3 and iX5. Its grille has a taller, more three-dimensional profile, signaling BMW’s intent to give this high-performance all-electric SUV a distinctive front fascia separate from standard Neue Klasse SUVs. Although the grille remains sealed, larger air intakes beneath the front bumper provide enhanced cooling for the battery, electric motors, and high-performance braking system. At the rear, a secondary spoiler has been added, and the rear bumper adopts a more aggressive design compared to the current G65 series. The vehicle is expected to retain the “M Yellow Lights” signature yellow daytime running lights first introduced on the X5 M60e, along with a more pronounced rear diffuser to differentiate it from the lower-tier M60e and M60 variants. Powertrain-wise, the new X5 M is anticipated to feature a quad-motor setup, with each wheel driven by an independent motor. Power distribution will be managed via M eDrive software, replacing traditional mechanical differentials—a configuration already confirmed for the all-electric M3 (ZA0) and X3 M (ZA5). The braking system includes drilled discs and blue calipers, consistent with BMW’s carbon-ceramic brake package. The battery is expected to be the same 147.8 kWh unit used in the standard X5, built on an 800-volt architecture with Cell-to-Pack (CTP) technology, making it BMW’s largest-capacity traction battery to date. Combined output is projected to reach 800–900 horsepower, surpassing the current XM Label Red’s 748 hp. Despite being fully electric, BMW will retain the “X5 M” name rather than adopting “iX5 M.” The head of BMW M previously stated that high-performance EVs will continue using naming conventions aligned with their combustion-engine counterparts. In the coming years, the X5 lineup will expand significantly. BMW plans to introduce several variants by 2028: the base iX5 60 xDrive, plug-in hybrid X5 M60e, V8-powered X5 M60 (with the S68 engine), all-electric iX5 M70, and even a hydrogen-fueled iX5. The G95 X5 M will be the last variant launched in this generation, with production scheduled to begin in April 2028 and market launch following in summer 2028—nearly two years after the standard G65 X5, which is slated to enter production in August 2026. Both the combustion and all-electric versions of the X5 M share the G95 codename and will be produced together at BMW’s Spartanburg plant in the United States. In Europe, the combustion-powered X5 M is expected to use an S68 mild-hybrid system compliant with local emissions regulations, while the U.S. market may retain the full-performance variant.