BMW’s ultra-high performance M division has officially unveiled the second-generation X5 M and X6 M. Compared to the 2009 models which they succeed, these SUVs bring improvements of up to 10 per cent in power, torque and performance while lowering fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by over 20 per cent.
Both models are powered by a new 4.4-litre M TwinPower Turbo V8 engine with two TwinScroll turbochargers. This new power unit develops its maximum 575 hp – four per cent more than the engine in the previous models – from 6,000 to 6,500 rpm, while peak torque of 750 Nm (a gain of 10 per cent) is available from 2,200 to 5,000 rpm. This combination of high-revving capability with linear, rapid response is thanks to the engine’s innovative M TwinPower Turbo technologies, which include cross-bank exhaust manifolds, two TwinScroll turbochargers, direct fuel injection working at a pressure of up to 200 bar and VALVETRONIC variable valve control.
The X5 M and X6 M accelerate from 0-62 mph in a supercar-equalling 4.2 seconds, but in normal road driving they are capable of 25.4 mpg, with CO2 emissions of 258 g/km – reductions of over 20 per cent compared to the previous models.
| Model | Power Hp | Torque Nm | 0 – 62mph Seconds | Top Speed Mph | Combined Mpg | CO2 Emissions g/km |
| BMW X5 M | 575 | 750 | 4.2 | 155* | 25.4 | 258 |
| BMW X6 M | 575 | 750 | 4.2 | 155* | 25.4 | 258 |
* Electronically limited
The eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic delivers all the advantages in terms of responsiveness of the M Double Clutch gearbox in other BMW M models, with the smoothness of a torque converter automatic. It also allows for a wider spread of gear ratios to foster greater fuel efficiency, and for the first time in a torque converter automatic it permits ‘creep on demand’ through the Low Speed Assistant system. The Drivelogic function allows the driver to prioritise fuel economy, comfort or sports performance, while gear changing can be fully automatic or driver-controlled via paddles on the steering wheel. A Launch Control function is fitted to permit perfect standing starts.
The xDrive four-wheel-drive system is fully flexible in the way it distributes torque to each axle, to ensure maximum traction on all roads and in all weathers. Normally the bias is towards the rear to give the X5 M and X6 M maximum agility, but when the occasion demands, 100 per cent of engine torque can be sent to either axle.
The new four-wheel-drive M models now feature an optimised DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system which permits an even more dynamic driving style and includes the additional safety functions Brake Standby, Brake Drying, Fading Compensation and Start-Off Assistant. DSC now allows three driving modes – DSC on, in which case the electronic systems provide maximum help to maintain stability; M Dynamic Mode (MDM), which allows some mild drifting before the electronics come to the driver’s assistance; and DSC off, which intervenes only in the most extreme circumstances.
Both models feature specially developed mixed tyres to ensure the maximum steering precision and feedback, traction and lateral and directional stability. They are fitted as standard with Pirelli P Zero tyres (285/40 R 20 Y at the front and 325/35 R 20 Y at the rear) on 20-inch light-alloy rims, but 21-inch wheels with Michelin Pilot Super Sport UHP tyres (285/35 R 21 Y front; 325/30 R 21 Y rear) are optionally available.
Standard features include Adaptive Dynamic suspension, Adaptive M suspension, Cruise Control with brake function, Driving Assistant, Dynamic Stability Control Plus (ABS, ASC, brake drying, brake fade compensation, brake pre-tensioning, Cornering Brake Contol, Dynamic Brake Control, Dynamic Traction Control, Electronic Brake-force Distribution and Hill-start Assistant), Hill Descent Control, front and rear Park Distance Control and a rain sensor with automatic headlight control.
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