BMW installs V10 engine from M5 E60 with manual transmission in classic X5 for Ronnie Fieg from Kith
On August 12, 2026, BMW confirmed an exclusive partnership with Ronnie Fieg, founder of renowned lifestyle brand Kith, which has resulted in the creation of a unique vehicle. The automaker is installing a V10 S85 engine, originally found in the BMW E60 M5, and a six-speed manual transmission in a first-generation BMW X5 (E53).
The surprising fusion: V10 S85 engine and manual transmission in the classic BMW X5
The collaboration represents a meeting between the utilitarian luxury of the X5 and the high-performance engineering of BMW. The S85 V10 engine, known for its unmistakable sound and power, is one of the brand’s most emblematic engines, and its combination with a manual transmission in a classic SUV attracts the attention of enthusiasts. This combination offers a more engaging and purist driving experience, something rare in vehicles in this segment today.
On the same topic: Lexus LFA resurrects in 2027 as an electric supercar, ditching iconic V10 engine
Details of the modification that combines performance and tradition
The V10 S85 is considered one of the most impressive engines ever put into a production sedan. Fieg’s decision to pair it with a six-speed manual transmission in the X5 E53 reflects a preference for a more direct connection to the car. The founder of Kith himself revealed, through his social networks, that the manual transmission was integrated into the vehicle’s original all-wheel drive system, maintaining the SUV’s 4×4 functionality.
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The high-performance legacy of the X5: remembering the X5 Le Mans
Although the configuration with the V10 S85 is notable, it is not the most radical modification ever carried out on a first-generation X5 by BMW itself. That honor belongs to the legendary X5 Le Mans. In 2000, BMW equipped an X5 with the V12 P75 engine, the same one that powered the victorious V12 LMR at Le Mans. Just like the new creation for Fieg, the X5 Le Mans also had a six-speed manual transmission, demonstrating the automaker’s ability to produce unconventional vehicles.
World premiere at Pebble Beach and partnership between Kith and BMW
BMW’s latest automotive extravaganza for the X5 is scheduled to debut at the renowned Pebble Beach event. The presentation is part of the new partnership entitled “Kith for BMW”, which promises other new features. This project reinforces the connection between the luxury automotive industry and the world of fashion and lifestyle, exploring personalization and exclusivity.
Other revelations: X5 2027 and BMW classics with the Kith brand
In addition to the manual X5 V10, Ronnie Fieg also mentioned the display of a 2027 model BMW X5 with the Kith brand at the same event. The exhibition will also include other classics from the automaker, which will be presented in an internet publication. Additional models include:
- A BMW E9 3.0 CSL
- A BMW E24 6 Series in vibrant Inka Orange
These revelations underline the depth of the collaboration between Kith and BMW, which goes beyond a single project and seeks to explore both the future and the rich history of the German brand.
