The next-generation BMW X5 won’t just spawn new ICE models and an all-electric iX5, but also a hydrogen-powered model according to a new report, which says it’s set to launch in 2028. Hot on the heels of a hugely successful 2024 that saw BMW top the US luxury segment, the new X5 family may help to boost the brand’s sales even higher.

We’ve known about the new X5 and iX5 models for quite some time. In July 2024, several prototypes were spied testing under thick camouflage, previewing their new Neue Klasse-inspired design. However, unlike the smaller iX3 which will use the Neue Klasse platform, the X5 range is expected to be based on an upgraded version of BMW’s existing Cluster Architecture (CLAR).

Read: BMW To Launch A Hydrogen Car In 2028 With Toyota’s Help

According to a report from Autocar, the existing platform was chosen because of the necessity of combustion-powered X5 models, and the Neue Klasse platform has been developed predominantly for EVs. However, this isn’t to say the iX5 will be behind the iX3 on the technology front. It’ll still use BMW’s sixth-generation motors, an 800-volt electrical architecture, and round battery cells boasting improved energy density.

For customers who aren’t interested in an X5 with a traditional ICE or as an EV, there will be a hydrogen-powered version. It will use a powertrain developed alongside Toyota, and while limited details are known, it’ll most certainly boast many improvements over the iX5 Hydrogen prototype from a couple of years ago. That vehicle boasted a front-mounted fuel-cell stack, and two hydrogen tanks, making a respectable 396 hp.

On the more affordable corner of the new X5 range, you’ll find 48-volt mild-hybrid versions with 3.0-liter turbocharged straight-six petrol and diesel engines. At launch, the X5 M60 will sit on top of the ICE range, rocking a turbo 3.0-liter straight-six plug-in hybrid in Europe, but the US will likely get a twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8. A high-performance iX5 M Performance with more than 600 hp is also on the cards.

US Sales Jump

Last year, BMW’s US sales jumped 2.5% to 371,346, thanks in part to a 12% growth in demand for its EVs. While speaking with Auto News after the recent National Automobile Dealers Association’s convention in New Orleans, BMW of North America chief executive Sebastian Mackensen expressed hope for this year.

“We’re going very optimistically into ’25 and think it will be a great year for BMW in the US,” Mackensen said. He added that BMW is well-positioned to meet shifting customer preferences. “If they want a BMW which drives with an electric drivetrain, we have great options. If they want a BMW which has a combustion engine, we have great options as well” he told the publication.