Rumors about the possibility of an electric X5 M are increasing. It is becoming increasingly likely that the “G95” generation will be offered as an electric vehicle. A few months ago we reported on a full-fat M version of the next X5 (“G65”) without a combustion engine. Now a BMW insider article on the topic Bimmer post The forums reflect what we have heard from our own sources.
The future X6 (“G66”) is also listed as the “G96” M model without an internal combustion engine. While there are no gasoline versions listed in the information this insider currently has access to, you shouldn’t worry. According to our own sources, the V8 will remain for both models. The ICE and EV versions will coexist peacefully and share the same CLAR architecture.
This raises an interesting point. It’s looking increasingly likely that the X5 will be the first M model to offer both combustion and electric powertrains on the same platform. We haven’t forgotten about the next M3, which will also be available in both flavors. However, these two sports sedans will ride on different platforms. BMW uses CLAR for the in-line six-cylinder model (“G84”) and Neue Klasse for the EV (“ZA0”).
The X5 range will be more diverse than ever. It includes inline-six petrol and diesel engines for the standard models, a V8 for the M Performance and M variants, at least one plug-in hybrid and fully electric versions. With the iX5 60H xDrive, a fuel cell electric vehicle is even added to the product range, the first hydrogen-powered series vehicle from BMW.
Not all of these versions will be available at once. The X5 40 xDrive and 40d xDrive are rumored to enter production in August 2026. A rear-wheel-drive 40 could begin assembly in Spartanburg in December, along with the 50e xDrive, M60e xDrive and iX5 60 xDrive.
The non-electrified M60 xDrive could join the range from April 2027, with two further variants following later: iX5 50 xDrive and iX5 M70 xDrive. BMW has already made it clear that the hydrogen model will not come onto the market until 2028, when the X5 M could also come onto the market.
As for slimmer siblings, the X6 and iX6 will have to wait. Series production is reportedly set to begin in April 2028, meaning M versions are expected to arrive around 2030. [Source: f30.post]
