New BMW X5 facelift confirmed by spy shots

• Sleeker exterior light design
• New iDrive 8 infotainment
• Coming later in 2022

The facelifted BMW X5 has been spotted undergoing final tests on the streets of Germany. After nearly four years on sale, the SUV was due a refresh and the appearance of these camouflaged prototypes confirms that a new version of the X5 will be coming later this year with a tweaked exterior design and upgraded interior tech.

Top 10 best electric SUVs – the ones to buy in 2024

The BMW X5 is the Munich-based brand’s mid-size SUV and rivals the likes of the Mercedes GLE and the Audi Q5. BMW already makes a similarly sized electric SUV in the form of the iX, so we are unlikely to see a new electrified X5 in this update.

From the spy shots, we can discern that the visual updates to the X5 will be subtle, with a slimmer headlight design, similar to those fitted to the facelifted BMW 5 Series. As is customary with new BMWs, we also expect the X5’s kidney grille to grow in size; this will be flanked by redesigned air intakes, intended to channel airflow down the sides of the car.

The lack of camouflage along the sides of the prototype X5 suggests that there will be minimal changes in that area. Turning towards the rear of the car, however, the facelifted model will get new 3D-effect taillights. These will be slimmer than the outgoing units, to match the redesigned headlights.

While it is unconfirmed at this stage, BMW is likely to introduce new paint and alloy wheel options to further differentiate the new car from the outgoing one.

Stepping inside, the biggest changes to the facelifted X5’s interior will come in the form of a new freestanding infotainment system, as seen in the electric BMW i4 and iX. This set-up features a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, alongside a huge 14.9-inch central infotainment screen. These displays, in typical BMW fashion, are angled towards the driver to make the cockpit feel more sporty and feature the latest iDrive 8 software.

Under the bonnet, more minor changes will occur across the range, with slight bumps in engine power and the inclusion of 48-volt mild-hybrid technology to improve efficiency. We also expect the high-performance M-badged models to remain largely as before, with slight power and torque increases.

BMW has already announced that a hydrogen-powered version of the X5 is coming, and this could well debut alongside the facelift. Aptly named the iX5 Hydrogen, this hydrogen fuel cell car will join a very small number of models on sale, including the Toyota Mirai.

Looking to stand out in the corporate car park? Read our list of the Top 10 best large executive cars 2021