In a market where every manufacturer seems to be pushing towards all-electric models, petrol heads fear the loss of the beloved V8 engine. While it’s likely that a majority of cars may be electric in the future, V8 engines will always hold a place in the automotive world. Under the hood of a sports car, a V8 can provide impressive performance, but we also look for the option in popular SUVs as well. With BMW having one foot in the hybrid and electric world and another in their heritage, should we be looking out for a V8 engine in the luxurious BMW X5?

Does the BMW X5 have a V8?

There are several drivetrain options available for the 2021 BMW X5, depending on what trim level you choose, and each engine option affects the driving experience and fuel economy. You can expect to see a TwinPower Turbo 3.0-liter 6-cylinder in the X5 40i, which is the most affordable model. While it is considered the base model, the 6-cylinder engine won’t disappoint you in way of performance. But, if you’re desperate for a V8, you can find one in the M trim of the BMW X5.

The BMW V8 engine

As you could expect, the V8 engine that is available for the 2021 BMW X5 sits under the hood of the M trim level of the car. The BMW X5 M50i provides drivers with the V8 experience they are looking for, with a 4.4-liter V8 engine under the hood. Of course, that doesn’t come without the downfall of relatively abysmal gas mileage, and according to BMW themselves, you can expect an average of 16mpg in the city and 22mpg on the highway.

Will it be the last generation with a V8?

BMW has announced that they will be moving forward with a plan to create more electric car options, and their SUVs won’t be an exception. In 2021, while you can get the BMW X5 with a V8, drivers also have the option to dip their toes into the water of hybrids too. While the brand hasn’t announced that they will stop production of their V8 engines anytime soon, it is possible that they will become a thing of the past as the company moves forward with its plans for an electric-focused future.

The BMW X5 is still offered with the V8 engine many of the brand’s enthusiasts have come to know and love, and we have no hint that this option will go away any time soon. For some drivers, having the M package means more power and more performance, and with the upgrade to the V8 engine in the X5 M50i, owners won’t find themselves disappointed — well, until they have to go to the gas station, that is.