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BMW confirms removal of the split tailgate on the new X5
A fresh generation of the BMW X5 is imminent, and while most of the conversation has focused on its bold Neue Klasse vizor-style front end, a more practical change has quietly slipped under the radar: the split tailgate is gone. U.S. dealer showings of the next-gen X5 and X7 reportedly confirmed the omission, ending a long-running BMW “party trick” that many owners found genuinely useful.
The split tailgate — a two-piece tailgate where the upper glass can open independently from the lower tailgate — has been a signature convenience on BMW SUVs for years. Losing it will be unpopular with some buyers who used the feature for easy loading, tailgate seating, or passing longer items into the cargo area without opening the whole hatch.
Why BMW might have dropped it
BMW’s decision likely comes down to packaging, weight, cost and styling priorities. The new X5 sits on the Neue Klasse platform and adopts the brand’s current design language: a small, integrated kidney grille, a striking vizor-like face, flush door handles, and a more sculpted, tech-forward cabin. Simplifying the rear hatch could improve NVH, structural rigidity, and open up space for a full-width light signature and cleaner bumper design.
There’s also a broader market context: many buyers prioritize tech, electrified powertrains, and interior innovation over quirky exterior features. Still, practicality matters — and this trade-off will divide opinion among shoppers and enthusiasts.
Design highlights: visual continuity with Neue Klasse
Renderings and leaked photos have revealed much of the X5’s exterior. Key design cues include:
- A vizor-like front face that blends the grille and lighting into a single graphic
- A small kidney grille tucked behind vinyl camouflage in early shots
- New daytime running lights, a chunkier lower bumper center, and reworked hood creases
- Flush door handles and conventional exterior mirrors for a sleeker profile
- Angular wheel-arch surrounds and sporty lower door sculpting
- A rear light signature that channels cues from the BMW XM, with very wide taillights and a rear bumper that visually echoes the front
Many CGI artists haven’t updated their renderings to reflect the missing split tailgate, so you’ll still see several images that show the two-piece hatch. In reality, the production car appears to adopt a single-piece liftgate with a cleaner, more modern rear treatment.
Interior and tech: pillar-to-pillar display expected
Inside, the X5 is expected to follow the Neue Klasse’s tech-heavy philosophy. Leaks suggest a pillar-to-pillar display sitting low on the dash at the base of the windshield — similar to what we’ve seen on the new iX3. The infotainment system may share software and core hardware with other Neue Klasse models, although screen sizes and control layouts could differ.
Speculation also mentions BMW’s distinctive four-spoke steering wheel on some prototypes, but official confirmation will have to wait until BMW reveals the cabin or additional leaks arrive.
Powertrain lineup: choice and versatility
BMW plans a wide range of powertrains for the next-gen X5, aiming to keep the model competitive across global markets. Expect:
- Traditional gasoline and diesel internal combustion engine options
- At least one plug-in hybrid variant (PHEV)
- A fully electric model badged iX5
- A hydrogen fuel cell version called iX5 Hydrogen
The iX5 Hydrogen is particularly notable. BMW has teased a version with seven high-pressure hydrogen tanks made from carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP), storing about 15.4 pounds (7 kg) of hydrogen. BMW claims an EPA-range equivalent of around 385 miles (approximately 620 km) and up to 750 km (about 466 miles) on the WLTP cycle. Refueling the hydrogen tanks takes under five minutes — comparable to filling gasoline and significantly faster than recharging a battery-electric variant.
Timeline: the hydrogen iX5 is expected to enter production in 2028, while the gasoline, diesel, PHEV and battery-electric models should debut a few months from now and be sold as 2027 or 2028 model-year cars.
Model positioning and market implications
With up to five drivetrain options, the new X5 aims to remain a versatile choice in the premium midsize SUV segment. BMW’s strategy looks to cover customers who prefer conventional ICE engines, want electrified range-extenders (PHEV), desire a pure battery-electric model, or seek hydrogen as a low-emission alternative for long-range, quick-turn refueling.
This breadth of choices helps BMW appeal to diverse markets where charging infrastructure, emissions rules, and fuel preferences vary widely. It also suggests BMW is hedging its bets while pushing Neue Klasse technologies forward.
What owners and buyers should consider
Dropping the split tailgate changes a small but tangible part of ownership experience. Practical considerations:
- Loading convenience: a single-piece liftgate might be less flexible for passing longer objects or creating a sheltered sitting ledge at the rear.
- Resale and appeal: some buyers prize the split tailgate, while others won’t miss it — expect mixed responses on the used market.
- Structural benefits: a single-piece hatch can offer better sealing and reduced rattle over time.
Quote highlight: "The loss of the split tailgate is a shame for practicality lovers, but the new X5 appears to compensate with advanced tech and a modern design language," says one dealer attendee.
Final thoughts
The next-generation BMW X5 is shaping up to be a bold, tech-rich SUV that fully embraces Neue Klasse styling and engineering. The removal of the split tailgate will disappoint some traditionalists, yet BMW’s wider design and powertrain upgrades — including the attention-grabbing iX5 Hydrogen — position the X5 to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving market.
Ultimately, whether the trade-off is worth it will depend on buyer priorities: if you value styling, technology and a wide range of drivetrain options, the new X5 looks compelling. If you bought previous X5s for the split tailgate’s everyday practicality, you may feel the loss more sharply.
Source: autoevolution
Comments
atomwave
is this official or just dealer gossip? i get the packaging and NVH reasons, but passing long skis or sitting on the lower ledge was the little genius trick. if the hydrogen iX5 is real tho, intriguing
driveline
Wow, really losing the split tailgate? That was so handy for camping and tailgate hangs. Hope the vizor and tech make up for this, but kinda disappointed...
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