The 2027 BMW X5 Loses One of Its Most Useful Features

Ever since its introduction in 1999, the X5 has had a split tailgate. But for the newly unveiled 2027 BMW X5, that feature is no more. If you were looking forward to it, we guess you’ll just have to deal.

The new X5’s tailgate now opens up to a flat load floor, making it effectively the same as all the other luxury midsize SUVs in its class. This isn’t a bad thing, but the split tailgate offered an extra level of functionality rarely found elsewhere and cannot be denied.

For example, you could only open the top half if you had loose items you were worried about rolling out. It provided a place to sit and made loading bulky items into the trunk more convenient because you wouldn’t have to worry about scuffing the rear bumper paint. And the trunk door took up less space when it was open. It was a big hit with X5 buyers, according to the forums anyway.

This is the outgoing tailgate. Note the split:

Here’s what the tailgate on the 2027 model looks like:

At least the middle seat can fold down thanks to the rear bench’s 40:20:40 split.

When asked why the X5 no longer has the split tailgate, a BMW spokesperson responded, “The single-piece tailgate is a response to customer feedback, but also improves aerodynamics and reduces weight and complexity.”

There’s no way for us to independently verify customer feedback, and aerodynamic improvements are always good, but weight reduction? The new X5 is most likely going to be over 5,000 pounds; what’s another few pounds in exchange for added versatility?

Those new to the X5 might not miss the split tailgate’s absence, but those familiar with the SUV definitely will. It’ll be interesting to see if the tailgate is a deal breaker for buyers.

It’s too bad, because not enough SUVs offer their customers such a handy feature. Among the ones that still do it are the BMW X7, Lincoln Navigator, Ford Expedition, and Range Rover.