BMW Group Australia will throw down the gauntlet in May with the arrival of the X5 M and X6 M models only in Competition guise, guaranteeing customers the highest possible level of specification and power output.
The new models combine the X5 and X6 platforms with the most powerful engine in the segment: the 460kW and 750Nm BMW M TwinPower Turbo V8 engine.
These figures mark a 37kW power hike on the previous generation X5 M and X6 M engine and help to propel the new X5 M and X6 M from 0-100km/h in just 3.8 seconds. This is four tenths of a second faster than the outgoing models.
Technical highlights of the new engine include twin-scroll turbochargers located in the V of the engine for optimum efficiency and response, a forged crankshaft for exceptional torsional force resistance and a motorsport oil supply system that integrates baffling and active suction in the sump to deliver lubrication where needed for track use.
The cooling system also evokes a race car set up with 10 individual coolers including two water cooled intercoolers for the turbochargers and oil coolers for engine and transmission.
Drive is sent to the ground via an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic, which adopts the same M control concept as the BMW M8 Competition vehicles.
The standard fitment M Sport exhaust system is characterised by four 100mm black chrome tailpipes. The exhaust delivers a soundtrack that emphasises the high revving and considerable output of the BMW TwinPower Turbo V8.
Chassis enhancements include Adaptive M Suspension Professional, which highlights the dynamic potential of the X5 M and X6 M with multiple modes, and the precise and direct M Servotronic steering.
Both vehicles also feature BMW M xDrive and Active M differential to deliver maximum traction and elevated dynamics for all driving situations. The fully variable M xDrive has a rear-biased set-up that brings the front axle into play only when the rear wheels are at the limits of adhesion.
The Active M differential is a needs-based differential lock that optimises traction, handling and stability elements.
An M compound brake system, featuring six piston fixed calipers at the front with 395mm drilled and inner-ventilated discs and single-piston floating calipers with 380mm discs at the rear, delivers stopping power. The system can bring the X5 M and X6 M from 100km/h to rest in just 32 metres.
The X5 M and X6 M also follow the M8 Competition in offering two levels of braking feel via the comfort and sport settings.
Both the X5 M and X6 M match the outstanding performance with striking styling and design aspects. Large intakes provide a dynamic aesthetic quality while ensuring an effective supply of air to the engine, transmission and brakes.
In addition, the wheel and tyre packages provide a dominant appearance while also contributing to road holding. Both vehicles feature M light alloy wheels with star-spoke style design shod with 295/35 section tyres on the front and 315/30 section tyres on the rear.
The interior of both the X5 M and X6 M combine BMW M elements with luxury appointments that provide a premium ambience. It features M multifunction sport seats trimmed in full leather ‘Merino’ upholstery and BMW Individual Alcantara headliner.
It is the first time this upholstery and headliner have been offered as standard equipment.
A suite of advanced safety and convenience systems including BMW Driving Assistant Professional, Parking Assistant Plus and BMW Live Cockpit Professional with twin 12.3-inch LCD colour displays complement the performance of both models.
The X5 M Competition is priced at $209,900, while the X6 M Competition is $213,900.
Both vehicles are available to order now with deliveries beginning in May this year.
