2023 BMW X5 M spied

The updated BMW X5 may be adopting the new “curved dash” inside, but outside it’s largely business as usual.

BMW doesn’t appear to have altered the styling of its hot-selling large SUV too much for its mid-cycle update, which could enter production early in 2023.

The front end of this X5 M prototype remains camouflaged but we can make out what appear to be slimmer headlights.

The grille may also receive a refresh, perhaps adopting a more angular look à la the X6. It’s possible the illuminated grille of the X6 could also make its way onto the X5.

There are also the usual mid-cycle update tweaks, like a refreshed front bumper. The sides are unchanged, as is typical.

Down back, the tail lights appear the same shape but the graphics have more of a 3D effect, like those on the updated X3.

Inside, there may be a more dramatic change with the facelifted X5 reportedly set to get BMW’s new “curved dash” and latest iDrive 8 infotainment system.

In the iX, this screen layout comprises a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system in one assembly, for a wraparound look.

Expect similar changes to be rolled out across the X6 line, given that model is a coupe SUV version of the X5.

The current X5 features dual 12.3-inch displays in separate housings and runs iDrive 7.

It’s unclear whether there’ll be any changes under the bonnet.

The X5 is currently offered with a sprawling range of powertrains, including four-cylinder (xDrive25d) and six-cylinder (xDrive30d) turbo-diesels, a turbocharged inline-six petrol (xDrive40i), a plug-in hybrid version of that (xDrive45e), and twin-turbo V8 petrols (M50i, X5 M).

Some markets also get a turbocharged petrol four-cylinder engine.

How important is the X5 to BMW? Despite being one of its most expensive SUVs, it was the brand’s third best-selling vehicle in Australia in 2021.

With 3173 sales, it was behind only the 3 Series (3982) and X3 (4242).

In the large luxury SUV segment, it was also outsold only by the Mercedes-Benz GLE Wagon (3591). It’s also a strong seller in the US, a much larger market which also happens to be where it’s built.

MORE: Everything BMW X5