BMW is overhauling several cars in its current lineup, as well as launching new models like the i4 and iX. In recent months, our spies have caught BMW testing prototypes of upcoming facelifts for the 3-Series, 8-Series, and X6. Now, it's the X5's turn to get a mid-cycle update.

The current X5 has been on sale since the 2019 model year, so the time seems right for a refresh. Our spies have caught BMW testing a prototype of the updated BMW X5 M, but it appears to be early in development as there are no major design changes yet. The bumper is a different color to the body and the headlights appear to be placeholders, but these are the only noticeable visual modifications.

There probably won't be any radical design changes: we're expecting the X5 M to be updated with revised headlights and bumpers to keep it looking fresh.

We don't get a full view of the interior, but a photo taken from the outside confirms there will be some big changes inside the cabin. As we saw in the X6 facelift prototype, we can see the curved display from the flagship iX SUV and the i4 sedan has been fitted inside the X5 M, despite the test driver's best efforts to cover it up. In the iX and i4, the dual-display incorporates a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch infotainment screen running the latest BMW Drive 8 software.

These prototype sightings suggest the new curved display will carry over to other current BMW models in upcoming updates.

No changes are expected under the hood, however. The current X5 M is powered by a twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 producing 600 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This setup enables the X5 M to accelerate from 0-60 mph in 3.8 seconds and hit a top speed of 177 mph with the M Driver's Package installed. The available Competition package increases the output to 617 hp.