2026 BMW X5

BMW got in on the modern luxury SUV game early with the debut of the X5 in 1999. That head start proved invaluable, allowing for development and improvement over the next two decades as smaller and larger siblings joined the lineup. The 2026 BMW X5 represents the end of the line for the current generation that debuted in 2019, yet it remains one of the best choices among midsize luxury SUVs. It takes its final bow in the same form as last year, delivering the same tried-and-true experience that made it an undeniable success.

This is always a tough question when a vehicle is due for a complete redesign. On one hand, the current 2026 X5 remains a great choice in its class. On the other, you might be missing out on the next big thing from BMW, whether it's a new technology feature or drivetrain option. Then there's style and personality. The next X5 seems poised to adopt the upcoming Neue Klasse exterior design language, with a smaller, more subtle kidney grille from pre-1980s BMWs. The new look could easily sway shoppers one way or the other, as could the possibility of higher tariff-related prices, even though the X5 is assembled in South Carolina. It's still early in the game, so we recommend watching this space for the latest developments.

Our current favorite midsize luxury SUV is the Mercedes-Benz GLE. It's similarly priced to the BMW X5 but leans more toward opulence than performance, at least in the entry-level trims. For more generous budgets, the Porsche Cayenne is about as sporty as the class gets. By contrast, the Genesis GV80 is a relative bargain compared to the German SUVs, as is the Lexus RX that provides more economical options. Even with these rivals and seven years in production, the BMW X5 should be an all-around winner for many shoppers.

We added a 2020 BMW X5 to our One-Year Road Test fleet to get a more detailed ownership experience of this generation, and it did not disappoint. While there have been numerous changes and upgrades since then, many of our observations still hold true and should set expectations if you purchase one.

The 2026 BMW X5 is a midsize luxury SUV with seating for five. Four versions are available: the sDrive40i, xDrive40i, xDrive50e and M60i. A high-performance X5 M is also available, but we review that model separately.