Although it looks like a refresh of the site, underneath is a new platform.

Last time spy photos were taken of the BMW X5, there was not a single snowflake. This SUV is literally surrounded by snow. We’ve seen quite a few camouflaged cars on this snowbound highway, including this M-endowed X5!

How can we tell it’s an M version? We don’t believe the standard X5 would have blue brake calipers and large, cross-drilled rotors. The exhaust tips at the back and the air inlets on front fascias seem very large. This prototype is almost identical to the November photos, right down to its camouflage wrap. The only thing that is different from the original photos is the number plate. We can also see the difference in the back bumper, where the exhaust tips are hidden by the snow cloud. The rectangular cutouts on this model are gone.

Although some may think it is an update to the current X5, this model is actually a completely new design. BMW will skip the typical mid-cycle refresh to jump straight to the next generation. This may be a good idea considering the rapid pace of the SUV market. However, don’t expect any significant changes in the styling. We have learned that the next X5 will adopt a conservative and evolutionary design approach to the exterior.

Its new CLAR platform will be the big news. It is already used on the 5 and 7 Series, and should reduce weight significantly. This new high-performance people-movers could deliver serious performance if it is combined with a boost in power, possibly up to 600 horsepower (447kW) from a 4.4-liter turbo V8.

We expect BMW to provide us with all information about the new model in the near future, possibly as early as this summer. It is expected to be available for purchase before the end of this year.