BMW’s transition to electric power is no longer a question of if, but how fast. Leading the charge is the i4 M50, the M division’s best-selling model, now succeeded by the upgraded i4 M60. But that’s just the beginning. BMW’s performance electric lineup is rapidly expanding—next up is the much-anticipated iX5 M70, a musclebound electric SUV that hints at the future of M.

Recent spy shots of the upcoming iX5 reveal a clear performance focus: massive drilled brake discs, towering 23-inch five-spoke forged wheels wrapped in Michelin high-performance rubber rated for speeds over 150 mph (240 km/h), and a muscular stance. All signs point to this being the M70 variant of the iX5—BMW’s first fully electric X5.

If BMW follows its current powertrain strategy, the iX5 M70 will likely share its dual-motor setup with the i7 M70, which cranks out 650 horsepower (659 PS / 485 kW) and launches the luxury sedan from 0–62 mph (0–100 km/h) in just 3.7 seconds. The performance credentials are all but guaranteed, but questions remain around range. BMW will be under pressure to improve upon the i7 M70’s EPA-rated 268–285 miles (431–459 km), especially with the SUV’s larger size and probable weight penalty.

Under the skin, the iX5 will continue to use BMW’s updated CLAR platform, the same one used by both combustion and electric variants of the X5. That sets it apart from the smaller X3 lineup, where the iX3 shifts to the brand’s next-generation Neue Klasse platform. While the iX5 doesn’t yet benefit from this EV-focused architecture, it will still embody BMW’s design evolution, borrowing styling cues from the Neue Klasse Vision X concept—especially its futuristic, visor-like front end.

Though still heavily camouflaged and clearly in the early stages of development, the iX5 M70 is expected to debut next year. When it does, it’ll enter an increasingly crowded battlefield of luxury electric SUVs. Rivals include the all-new electric Porsche Cayenne and the Lotus Eletre, both aiming to blend performance with zero-emissions appeal.

However, amid slowing global EV adoption and rising tariffs, BMW is hedging its bets. The iX5 will launch alongside internal combustion engine (ICE) versions, and even competitors like Lotus are developing hybrid alternatives in response to shifting consumer demand.

Still, the direction is clear: for BMW M, the road ahead is electric—and fast.

Source: BMW