Next-Gen BMW X5 Looks Epic With XM-Inspired Styling

First revealed in 2018, the G05BMW X5is still fairly fresh which explains why very little is known about its successor. Perhaps what's most remarkable about the X5 through all four generations of the SUV is that it has rarely, if ever, polarized fans aside from the fact that it existed, something that most modern BMWs have been unable to lay claim to.Every generationhas been handsomely styled, blessed with class-leading powertrains, and built to an exceptionally high standard. However, we're now less certain about whether this will remain the case following the reveal of thecontroversial Concept XM. What would become of the X5 - and indeed, other BMW SUVs - if it inherited some of the XM's scandalous styling cues?

It turns out that combining the X5's more conventional profile with a few of the XM's details and toning everything down makes for a rather handsome SUV. There's barely any part of the XM's sheetmetal that hasn't been twisted, creased, or needlessly blown up in size. Our resident artist used a much smaller version of the octagonal grille on this blue X5, increased the size of those oddly small headlights, and toned down the detailing on the lower bumper. As you can see, the 'XM-ified' face of the X5 is striking and modern. It's all about proportion, as each individual element matches the size of the vehicle it's attached to. The hood was given subtle humps, and we darkened the A-pillars.

Along the sides, the more conservative X5's beltline was dispensed with. Here, it rises as it travels along the body, as on the XM. The wheel arches are also dark and squared-off.