BMW is really getting into the electric market, and ramping up fast. Recently, BMW's iX5 M70, the performance oriented electric X5, was spotted testing in Germany. So what is that going to mean for them? Well, we suspect it's going to be a headache for Porsche and Lotus.
The prototype was aggressive in its camouflaged body, and reportedly features a high output dual-motor setup aimed squarely at the EV driving, adrenaline junkies looking at Porsche Cayenne Electric or a Lotus Eletre. Here’s what we know, and why you should care.
This SUV Means Business
Yes, the iX5 M70 still has a way to go before we see it on the road, and yes, it still under covers, but it clearly isn't a joke. The iX5 M70 has huge 23-inch forged wheels fitted with track-worthy tires, yes tires you would see on a track-ready coupe. The brakes? How about large, drilled discs (not just painted in an ornate color) that scream performance. This certainly isn't their family SUV.
Expect:
- Approximately 650 hp, based on the i7 M70 powertrain
- 0-60 mph in under 4 seconds
- Dual-motor all-wheel drive
- Signature M styling elements and an aggressive stance
If you're a BMW loyalist, or you just love fast SUVs, the iX5 M70 looks to have everything necessary to be an exciting addition to the M Series line up with speed, luxury, and drama, and zero tailpipe emissions.
Why BMW Not Moving to CLAR (and Why It Actually Matters)
BMW could make this EV on its all new Neue Klasse, but they didn’t. They decided to use the CLAR platform on the iX5 M70, which also underpins several combustion and plug-in hybrids versions of the X5. That may sound dull, but there are some awesome reasons:
- Manufactured in Spartanburg, SC with other X5s
- Faster time to market
- It's a significant familiar chassis setup for buyers used to how BMW's drive.
Basically it's BMW saying, "We will get to fully next gen soon- but this one is for today's drivers that want a riotous EV today."
Competing with Porsche and Lotus? Yup
Full disclosure- this iX5 M70 is not just for walking in the delight of ownership. It's designed to be a competitor to:
- The Cayenne Electric, which is some combination of Porsche DNA plus lakhs.
- Lotus Eletre, an audacious just launched EV from a company that has some great reputation around handling.
BMW is looking for a sweet spot of pure performance and practicality, in an overall luxury offering with M badging and an unmistakable kidney grille look.
Expected Release Date
BMW hasn’t set an exact release date yet, but every indication is the iX5 M70 will be launched as a 2026 model year vehicle, and likely unveiled in late 2025. And yes—it's expected to be sold within the U.S. market to expand on the growing number of performance EVs that fuse family comfort and supercar stats.
BMW iX5 M70 Specs Sheet (Expected)
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Conclusion
The upcoming BMW iX5 M70 will likely be a strong contender in the high-performance electric SUV segment since it offers muscle-car acceleration, luxury SUV comfort, and flexibility with production in the U.S. For buyers looking to transition to electric with a fast performance vehicle, the iX5 M70 is a compelling option without missing out on the “thrills.” Being built off the existing CLAR platform, BMW has utilized a current technology platform while bridging to the electric future. Regardless of whether you're a BMW person or a fast SUV enthusiast, it’s worth keeping an eye on the iX5 M70 very closely as it approaches to market in 2026.
Source(Image / Thumbnail): carscoops
