BMW Confirms Next-Gen X5 M Retains V8 Powertrain; PHEV Likely Path Forward

Recently, BMW unveiled the fifth-generation X5 globally at its Greenville, South Carolina plant. A key announcement accompanying the launch has drawn widespread attention: the next-generation X5 M high-performance model will retain its V8 engine — dashing speculation that it would go fully electric and be replaced by an iX5 M variant.

Although the fifth-generation X5 platform is built on a new-generation architecture designed natively for battery-electric powertrains — and compatible with plug-in hybrid, conventional internal combustion, and even hydrogen propulsion — the automaker has confirmed that its M performance flagship will not go fully electric. The V8 internal combustion engine remains core to the X5 M's powertrain strategy.

The current X5 M features a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine paired with a 48V mild-hybrid system, delivering a combined peak output of 617 horsepower and 750 N·m of torque. Notably, this mild-hybrid system handles only start-stop, power generation, and minor torque fill-in — adding just 12 horsepower via the electric motor. The vast majority of propulsion still comes exclusively from the V8 ICE.

While BMW has yet to release full technical specifications for the next-gen X5 M, industry consensus points toward a V8 plug-in hybrid (PHEV) configuration as the most probable solution — rather than a pure ICE or BEV layout. Drawing from the already mass-produced XM Label Edition, which pairs the same 4.4L twin-turbo V8 with a 197-horsepower electric motor for a combined system output of 738 horsepower, this proven high-performance PHEV architecture could well trickle down to the X5 M. Still, BMW stresses that final powertrain specs, calibration details, and other engineering decisions remain under wraps pending official disclosure — only confirming that the V8 ICE will stay.

In a global automotive landscape where manufacturers are rapidly phasing out large-displacement gasoline engines, BMW's move sends a clear strategic signal: the brand has no intention of abandoning its high-performance ICE lineup outright. For enthusiasts who value engine sound, linear throttle response, and the visceral feel of big-displacement power, BMW will continue offering either pure ICE or PHEV high-performance options. The V8 PHEV route thus emerges as M Division's pragmatic compromise — balancing tightening emissions regulations, uncompromised performance demands, and emotional driver appeal.