BMW is hard at work developing a new model of the BMW X5 as soon as 2018. The BMW G05 X5 as is known internally was spotted in the past testing on the Nurburgring during some high-speed testing sessions. Now, the G05 X5 has headed back to the Ring before going back to the M Testing Center in Nuremberg.

Under the heavy camouflage, the X5 prototype hides a new, more dynamic look dominated by the pronounced nose and massive kidney grille. The rear-end stays closer to the design of the current model, but looks more refined, softer and more premium. The roof’s subtle spoiler gives the X5 a more slopping roofline for a sportier look.

Previous prototype spotted in California

Inside the cabin, a bit more room is expected while the exterior design will remain roughly the same, according to our sources.

Under the sheet metal of the G05 X5 you’ll find a new chassis that was developed on top of the Cluster Architecture platform. The new X5 will be using aluminum and CFRP (carbon fiber reinforced polymer) extensively, and it will shed some considerable weight from the car’s hips, enhancing its driving dynamics.

In terms of powerplants, the new generation B-family of mills will be used, from 2-liter diesel engines with two turbochargers on the EU-only sDrive25d and xDrive25d to the new B57 units for 30d and 40d models. The N63 4.4-liter V8 twin-turbo petrol mill will be kept along for the xDrive50i model while the xDrive35i will transform into xDrive40i once the N55 3-liter straight six engine is replaced by the new B58 engine.

A plug-in hybrid should also form part of the portfolio and there will almost certainly be M Performance and dedicated M versions.

2018 BMW X5 spy video from Motor Authority on Vimeo.