German carmaker BMW is expanding its M division by releasing two new crossovers. The 2020 BMW X5 M and X6 M are making an entrance, and both are carrying more power under the hood. Both the third-generation X5 M and X6 M are naturally based on the current X5 and X6. But having the M badge means a host of new improvements so you can go faster and harder while still having enough room for the entire family.
The new BMW X5 M and X6 M are brandishing a powerful V8 engine
When talking about the newest creations from BMW’s M Division, it’s important to first talk about what’s lurking under the hood. BMW is taking no chances by employing a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 motor for both the X5 M and X6 M. Featuring an advanced liquid-to-air intercooler, high-pressure direct injection, and VALVETRONIC variable-valve timing among other things, the V8 motor pumps out 600-horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque.
The new turbocharged V8 motor produces 33 more horsepower than the outgoing second-gen X5 M and X6 M. It also has a wider torque range as it churns out maximum push from as low as 1,800 rpm all the way to 5,690 rpm.
There’s also a competition model that produces even more power
If you think 600-horsepower is not enough for a family SUV, BMW has you covered. The new X5 M and X6 M are also available in Competition trim. With this, you get a retuned version of the 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 with 617-horsepower to play with. Interestingly enough, the engine churns out the same amount of torque.
Both the M and Competition models of the X5 and X6 are equipped with an M Steptronic eight-speed automatic with Drivelogic and M xDrive all-wheel-drive with an Active M differential. With this level of mechanical supremacy, both the new X5 M and X6 M can rush to 60 mph from a standstill in a scant 3.8-seconds. Meanwhile, the X5 M Competition and X6 M Competition can perform the same deed in 3.7-seconds.
Top speed is electronically-limited to 155 mph for both the BMW X5 M and X6 M. Choosing the optional M driver’s package will raise the top speed to 177 mph. This also includes an invitation for driver training at BMW’s Performance Center in Greer, SC and Thermal, CA respectively. Because with this much power on tap, it helps to know a thing or two about high-performance driving.
Expect better handling and ride comfort with standard adaptive suspension
Having more power than a sports car in a family SUV is good, but you need more than just mountains of power and torque. With that in mind, the boffins at BMW gave the X5 M and X6 M a revised double-wishbone front suspension and a five-link set-up in the rear. Also standard for both M and Competition models of the X5 and X6 is an adaptive M suspension Professional with active roll stabilization.
The suspension is equipped with sensors to collect data from body movement, steering angle, and road surface conditions. This allows the X5 M and X6 M to alter the suspension tuning for enhanced comfort or better handling. Also standard is the M Servotronic variable-ratio steering for enhanced feedback and accuracy.
Designed to impress
Both the BMW X5 M and X6 M are designed to look fast even when standing still. The front is adorned with M specific BMW kidney grilles with blacked-out double bars, larger air intake openings in the front bumper, flared body-colored wheel arches, a new rear diffuser, and integrated quad exhausts.
The X5 M and X5 M Competition are equipped with a rear roof spoiler while the X6 M and X6 M Competition have a roof and tailgate spoiler for better aerodynamics. Standard on both X5 M and X6 M models are 21-inch extra-light bi-color wheels with a double-spoke design. Competition models have the option of staggered 21-inch front and 22-inch rear wheels.
Luxurious and sporting interior
BMW M models are renowned for having elegant, luxurious, and sporting interiors. Both the cabins of the BMW X5 M and X6 M receive splashes of red accents to get the blood boiling. You’ll also find the familiar red, blue, and white stitching on the steering wheels and gear lever. Meanwhile, Competition models of the X5 M and X6 M receive additional knee paddings in the center console.
Both the X5 M and X6 M receive illuminated door sill plates, M multifunction electric sports seats, and a power tailgate. Of course, Merino leather seats are standard in the X5 M and X6 M while Competition versions for both models get two-tone Merino leather upholstery in n array of color combinations. The new X5 M and X6 M receive the latest iDrive 7 along with a 12.3” instrument cluster and 12.3” center display.
2020 BMW X5 M & X6 M pricing
Can’t wait to get your hands on the latest BMW X5 M and X6 M? Both models including the Competition versions arrive at BMW showrooms in Spring 2020. The 2020 BMW X5 M starts at $105,100 while the X6 M has a $108,600 base price. Meanwhile, the new X5 M Competition starts at $114,100 while the X6 M Competition starts at $117,600.
