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At first glance, a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) configuration on a luxury midsize SUV may seem unconventional, but it is precisely the latest example of BMW's driver-focused engineering philosophy. With the global debut of the fifth-generation BMW X5 (G65), BMW has officially confirmed that the BMW X5 40 RWD will join the lineup in the first quarter of 2027, with a starting price of USD 71,250 (approximately RM 292k) in overseas markets.
Compared with its all-wheel-drive counterparts, the entry-level rear-wheel-drive variant is not only USD 2,300 (approximately RM 9,500) more affordable, but also demonstrates BMW's commitment to making its renowned driving dynamics more accessible. For buyers who have long aspired to own a BMW luxury SUV, the fifth-generation G65 X5 represents more than just a technological leap, but it also challenges the long-held perception that all premium SUVs must be equipped with all-wheel drive.
For most buyers, the biggest question is whether saving USD 2,300 (approximately RM 9,500) comes at the expense of performance. The answer is no.
According to BMW, the rear-wheel-drive X5 40 delivers exactly the same 0–100 km/h acceleration time as its xDrive all-wheel-drive counterpart. Both variants are also electronically limited to a top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).
In other words, the additional mechanical hardware of the all-wheel-drive system does not translate into any meaningful advantage in straight-line performance. Buyers opting for the more affordable rear-wheel-drive model can enjoy identical acceleration and top-speed figures while benefiting from a lower entry price.
Weight reduction is the key factor here. By removing the transfer case and front driveshaft, the RWD variant sheds significant weight. This weight saving offsets the traction disadvantage of single-axle drive, allowing the RWD X5 40 to keep pace with its AWD sibling.
Under the bonnet, the new X5 40 features a comprehensively upgraded B58 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six engine, paired with a 48V mild-hybrid system running on the Miller cycle.
Thanks to a new turbocharger, output rises to 394 hp and 580 Nm (428 lb-ft) of torque, an increase of 19 hp and 45 lb-ft over its predecessor. For a variant positioned as the "entry-level" powertrain, these figures are highly impressive.
Prospective early adopters should, however, be aware of one important timing difference. At launch, the G65 X5 will initially be offered exclusively with xDrive all-wheel drive, while the highly anticipated X5 40 RWD is expected to join the lineup in the first quarter of 2027.
This means buyers seeking a lighter, rear-wheel-drive driving experience will need to wait a few more months before the new entry-level variant becomes available.
From a historical perspective, BMW's decision to offer a rear-wheel-drive X5 is not unprecedented. Earlier E53 and E70 generations were available exclusively with xDrive AWD, but the introduction of the F15 in 2013 saw the debut of the rear-wheel-drive sDrive35i. The succeeding G05 continued the tradition with the sDrive40i.
With the arrival of the G65, BMW has simplified its naming strategy by dropping the familiar "sDrive" prefix altogether, with the rear-wheel-drive model now simply badged as the X5 40.
The move also aligns with BMW's broader global product strategy. From the X3 20 sDrive offered in selected markets to the rear-wheel-drive iX3 40, and even the upcoming Neue Klasse electric architecture, which adopts a rear-mounted motor as its default configuration, BMW is clearly streamlining its drivetrain offerings by eliminating unnecessary mechanical complexity while maintaining the brand's signature driving dynamics.
BMW Malaysia has already opened the Register of Interest (ROI) for the new G65 X5. Although the model's dedicated page is now live on the official BMW Malaysia website, the company has yet to announce an official launch date.
Until then, the current G05 X5 lineup remains on sale in Malaysia at the following prices:
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