2028 BMW X5 Powertrains are set to change the way we look at luxury SUVs. BMW’s next-gen X5 will arrive with five options: gas, diesel (outside the U.S.), plug-in hybrid, all-electric, and even a hydrogen fuel cell model that emits nothing but water. For American buyers, that means more choices than ever, including a bold return of a powertrain most automakers have abandoned.
For American drivers used to selecting between fuel and electric-powered powered, the idea of pulling up to a hydrogen pump may additionally sound futuristic. But BMW isn’t treating this as a technology venture it’s a complete-on production plan.
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Why Hydrogen, and Why Now?
For most U.S. driver the decision usually comes down to gas or electric. The idea of pulling up to a hydrogen pump still feels futuristic almost experimental. But BMW insists this isn’t a science project.
The brand has already tested hydrogen in the real world, running an iX5 Hydrogen test fleet on U.S. roads. That experience wasn’t just about collecting data—it was about proving that hydrogen can work in everyday driving conditions.
Now BMW says its third-generation fuel-cell system is finally ready for production. The new setup is:
- Smaller and lighter
- More powerful than before
- Cleaner and more efficient to produce
And instead of debuting it in a niche concept car BMW plans to install it in one of its most important model the X5 a vehicle that helped define the luxury SUV segment.
What to anticipate from the 2028 BMW X5
The upcoming X5 won’t just be about what is under the hood. It will also mark a major step forward in BMW design and technology.
Powertrain Options
- Gasoline models for traditional buyers
- Diesel variants for Europe
- Plug-in hybrids offering electric-only commuting with gas backup
- A fully electric X5 for EV-first drivers
- A hydrogen fuel cell model for zero-emission driving with fast refueling
Neue Klasse Design Language
The next X5 will adopt BMW’s Neue Klasse styling:
- Slimmer, more modern headlight
- Cleaner body lines
- A minimalist, tech focused interior
- Advanced digital displays and next gen software
Why these topics for U.S. Buyers
For most American drivers, gas, plug-in hybrid, and electric versions of the X5 will remain the most practical choices. These models will continue to anchor BMW’s U.S. sales.
However for buyers in California—or those interested in cutting-edge tech—the hydrogen X5 could be an intriguing alternative. It offers EV-like cleanliness without long charging times making it especially appealing for drivers who want zero emissions but don’t want to rely on charging infrastructure.
The bigger picture is what really matters here.
BMW isn’t abandoning EVs but it also isn’t betting everything on one solution. Instead it’s preparing for a future where multiple technologies coexist, depending on location, infrastructure and customer needs.
Final Thought
The BMW X5 is not your typical luxury SUV update. It’s a declaration.
BMW is indicating that there is no need for a one size fits all approach to mobility in the future by providing five distinct engine options, including hydrogen. Even if the hydrogen X5 is unlikely to be a big seller in the US its presence conveys a strong message BMW thinks hydrogen has a bright future.
Who knows? It may feel as natural to pull up to a hydrogen pump in ten year as it does to plug in an EV now.
FAQs
Q: Will the hydrogen BMW X5 be sold in the U.S.?
A: BMW is expect to offer the hydrogen X5 in limited number likely focused on markets like California where hydrogen infrastructure already exist.
Q: Is hydrogen better than electric vehicles?
A: Hydrogen isn’t necessarily better it’s different. It offer faster refueling and long range but currently lack widespread infrastructure compared to EV charging network.
Q: Will the next BMW X5 be fully electric?
A: Yes BMW plan to offer a fully electric X5 alongside gas, hybrid and hydrogen variant.
Q: When will the new BMW X5 launch?
A: The next generation BMW X5 is expect to arrive around 2028 with production ready version of all five powertrain.
Also read: BMW iX3 2025 Electric SUV Is Finally Here — And It’s Straight Out of the Future