With their striking use of forms, the new BMW X5 M and new BMW X6 M clearly flag up their sporting ambitions. With their exteriors painted fully in body colour, both models cut a low-slung figure on the road, while mixed tyres showcase their sporty track width and lend extra credence to their premium perception.
Additional exterior design modifications, moreover, elevate the M models even further than before from the standard BMW X5 and BMW X6. Large air intakes at the front end, side gills with a model badge and Air Breathers, signature M exterior mirrors in twin-stalk style, a typically M four tailpipe exhaust system and a rear spoiler (for the BMW X6 M) give them a standalone look M fans will immediately recognise. Setting the seal on this exclusive range of features are M-specific 20-inch light-alloy wheels with mixed tyres or forged 21-inch M light-alloy wheels (optional).
The high-quality interior impresses with its well-thought-through combination of sporty features, exclusive materials and flawless workmanship. The M instrument cluster, M leather steering wheel with aluminium gearshift paddles and M gearshift lever – which works in the same way as the familiar M Double Clutch Transmission – are complemented by electrically operated M sports seats for the driver and front passenger, an M driver’s footrest and the optional Head-Up Display which, in addition to the standard system, also includes an M-specific display with gear indicator, rev band and shift lights.
New BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M customers also have the choice between various options exclusive to the M models, such as 21-inch M light-alloy wheels, Merino full-leather trim and M multifunction seats. And there’s also a choice of two new and exclusive M paint finishes.
The new M TwinPower Turbo engine for the BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M is the most powerful unit ever developed by BMW for an all-wheel-drive vehicle. Boasting innovative M TwinPower Turbo technology with a pair of TwinScroll turbochargers, cross-bank exhaust manifolds, VALVETRONIC and High Precision Direct Petrol Injection, the 4.4-litre V8 produces maximum output of 423kW between 6000rpm and 6500rpm. That represents a 4 per cent increase over the predecessors. The step up is even clearer when it comes to the power development of the new engine. Peak torque has been boosted by 70Nm, which equates to a rise of 10per cent. Its 750 Nm can be enjoyed across a broad rev range between 2200rpm and 5000rpm.
Being M models there a number of features offered to set the car up just how you would prefer. There are different settings for the transmission, steering as well as suspension. The gearbox also has a setting which allows you to select how ferocious you want it to change gears.
I found the X5M which I drove to be quite composed and manageable through the corners. This is probably down to the fact that both cars have an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch which allows for fully variable distribution of drive between the front and rear axles – from 100 per cent at the rear to up to 100 per cent at the front. The result is a whole new bracket of dynamic flair, agility and traction.
