- The long-wheelbase BMW X5 just got a new “Dark Flame” special edition reserved for China.
- The SUV features dark exterior and interior themes with gold accents and carbon inserts.
- It is based on the xDrive40 Li trim, featuring a mild-hybrid turbo 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine.
The BMW X5 recently celebrated its 25th anniversary with limited-production specials in the USA and Canada. But instead of simply rebranding the same model for China, BMW’s local division has gone a different route, introducing the Dark Flame Limited Edition. A China-exclusive, this edition brings bespoke exterior and interior details to the long-wheelbase X5 Li, setting it apart from its global siblings.
This China-specific Dark Flame model builds on the facelifted, long-wheelbase X5 introduced in 2023. It leans heavily into a dark, dramatic aesthetic, pairing a Sapphire Blue exterior with contrasting Titan Gold accents. These gold touches adorn the illuminated kidney grille, the front bumper’s intakes, side gills, and frame the windows. Even the badging on the tailgate gets the Titan Gold treatment.
More: 5 Reasons Why You Should Get BMW’s X5 M Over The X6 M
The SUV rides on a set of 22-inch alloy wheels finished in black, with M-branded brake calipers. Other cool touches include the smoked black taillights, the Dark Flame graphics on the puddle lights, and the dark finish on the dual exhaust pipes.
The stretched X5 Li doesn’t just look bigger—it is bigger. Measuring 5,060 mm (199.2 inches) in length, this variant’s extended wheelbase of 3,105 mm (122.2 inches) puts it on par with BMW’s larger models like the X7 and XM.
Moving inside, BMW chose a black Sensafin premium soft synthetic leather upholstery for the seats, and a dark grey Alcantara headliner around the standard “starry sky” panoramic sunroof. The dark interior features gold contrasting stitching and carbon fiber inserts on the dashboard and center console.
Equipment levels are predictably high, including a four-zone climate control, heated and ventilated seats, the curved digital cockpit, and a Harman Kardon audio system. Finally, the Dark Flame logo can be found on the cup holder, the front seatbacks, and the illuminated side sills.
The special edition is based on the xDrive40Li, with a turbocharged mild-hybrid 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine producing 375 hp (280 kW / 381 PS) and 520 Nm (384 lb-ft) of torque. Power is transmitted to all four wheels via an eight-speed Steptronic automatic. The adaptive dual-axle air suspension, M Sport exhaust and M Sport brakes are fitted as standard.
The BMW X5 xDrive40 Li Exclusive Dark Flame Edition is priced at a cool 830,000 yuan (equal to around $116,500) in China, with production capped at just 1,000 units. That sticker makes it 101,000 yuan ($14,200) pricier than the M Sport Package trim with the same engine and transmission setup, and 30,000 yuan ($4,200) above the Night Edition.
