The world premiere of the new BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M takes place today.
The new BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M once more see BMW M setting the pace in the high-performance Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) and Sports Activity Coupe (SAC) segment. When the previous generation of the two vehicles arrived in 2009, it was the first time the high-performance character distilled by BMW M had been transplanted into an all-wheel drive model.
New generation of BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M continue with the next chapter in this successful story ensuring the drivers once again experience these cars in the best way possible. The two M-brothers provide the well-known dynamic capabilities, distinctive and aggressive design and for the first time, outstanding efficiency wrapped up in a high-performance outstanding package.
As for the pricing, it is similar to the previous generation, meaning you will have to go deep in your pockets to obtain them. The 2015 BMW X5 M will be offered at a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of $99,650 and the 2015 BMW X6 M will start at $103,050, including $950 Destination and Handling.
Previous character traits are translated into the new models: power delivery, sporty cabin and gadgetry , combined with the beefed up exterior, all of whichclearly separates these two from the normal X5 and X6 models. Most noticeable on the new BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M are the aggressive body lines, M badges and the well thought front fascia. The X5 M and X6 M comes with the M badges on the enlarged kidney grilles, an unmistakable sign of great power this two car are capable of delivering.
ENGINE
Both cars are powered by a reworked M TwinPower Turbo engine, a V8 that provides more power and torque, and better power delivery. All of this is wrapped up with an emotionally rich soundtrack, thanks to quad exhaust pipes found on both vehicles.
The peak output of the new M turbocharged engine is 567 hp, three percent higher than that of its predecessor and is available between 6,000 and 6,500 rpm.
At the same time, the engine’s peak torque has been boosted by around 10 percent to 553 lb-ft, which can be enjoyed across an extremely broad rev band – from 2,200 to 5,000 rpm. The extraordinary power development of this M turbocharged engine allows the new M versions of the BMW X5 and BMW X6 to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 4.0 seconds. The top speed of both is electronically limited to 155 mph.
Now the 4.4-liter V8 uses innovative M TwinPower Turbo technology – consisting of cross-bank exhaust manifolds, a pair of TwinScroll turbochargers, High Precision Direct Injection and VALVETRONIC – designed to push torque and output to higher levels. This unrivalled combination ensures that a strong wave of torque is maintained from low revs and allows direct and rapid responses, linear power delivery and customary M soundtrack.
The outstanding efficiency of the new M TwinPower Turbo engine is illustrated by its 20 percent lower fuel consumption and emissions in he European cycle (official EPA values will be available closer to the start of sales) compared to its predecessor.
Therefore, the range of the two vehicles on a single, identically sized tank of fuel has increased by 26 percent to 475 miles. The new BMW X5 M and new BMW X6 M send their engine power to the wheels via the newly developed eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic included.
The 8 speed steptronic automatic with M-specific Servotronic and 3-stage Drivelogic Transmission provides lighting fast gear changes, better performance and instantenous responses, where the torque converter automatic transmission links up seamlessly with the new higher-torque turbocharged engine.
The new transmission also allows drivers to sit back and enjoy automatic shifts or change gear manually using the gearshift paddles on the M leather steering wheel. And for the perfect getaway, the driver can activate the Launch Control system adapted from use in racing vehicles. The driver keeps their foot on the brakes and pushes the accelerator down almost to the floor, which prompts the system to dial in the ideal getaway rpm. Releasing the brakes prompts Launch Control to let the vehicle off the leash, and it accelerates off the line with maximum propulsion.
The driver can also use the three-stage Drivelogic function to choose whether to prioritize fuel economy, comfort or sport performance. This functionality is available both in automatic and manual shifting modes.
This is all combined with an xDrive system that employs an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch, all engaged to allow fully variable distribution of drive between the front and rear axles. It allows it to spread the drive equally with 100% going towards front or 100% going towards the rear axles respectively.
In the interest of greater agility, the xDrive system works normally with a rear-biased torque split in the usual circumstances ensuring great driving dynamics in dry conditions. This, together with an Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) in the BMW X5 M and new BMW X6 M, ensures these two leave an open door for to controlled drifts, something we’ve already experienced with the newest BMW X6 a few weeks before.
With many pundits bashing both the X5 M and X6 M for their driving capabilities, this is another proof that these vehicles have the handling prowess even for the most expert drivers. Naturally, the cornering speeds wont be in the same range as some other members of the M model range, but it will surely provide enough fun.
Dynamic Stability Control allows the driver to choose from three modes: DSC on, MDM (M Dynamic Mode), DSC off. With DSC on, the car counteracts understeer and oversteer to great effect with selective brake activation and torque reductions, MDM allows greater wheel slip – to give keen drivers the chance to execute some mild drifts. However, the driver aids will also intervene to assist the driver in this mode if a predefined limit is exceeded. Deactivating DSC (through DSC off) gives the driver the chance to fully explore the vehicle’s limits on the track and nudge the vehicle into power oversteer (i.e. a drift) using the accelerator.
In this mode, the system will only intervene in extreme situations involving significant shifts in lateral acceleration.
DESIGN
With powerful looks and exclusive equipment, the new ultimate versions of BMW’s Sport Activity Vehicles bring various design updates, providing the owners and careful on lookers with a distinctive difference between the normal versions of these models. The differences in the character of the BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M are particularly evident when the two models are viewed from the side. The BMW X5 M reinforces its presence and functionality with its upright stature, long roofline and large window surfaces. By contrast, the BMW X6 M displays the unmistakable, flowing lines of a BMW Sports Activity Coupe through its gently curved glasshouse, sloping roofline and pronounced wedge shape.
Utilizing a low-slung profile on the road, large air intakes, side sills with a model badge and Air Breathers, signature M exterior mirrors, a typical quad-exhaust pipe installment and a rear spoiler, the new X5 M and X6 M create a unique performance appearance. Sealing the deal on this exclusive range of features are standard M-specific, forged 21-inch M light-alloy wheels.
The function-led design of the new BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M is immediately clear with athletic, muscular looks betraying their high-performance credentials before they so much as turn a wheel.
Both new M models borrow their headlights from the BMW X6, complete with headlight washer system. Elsewhere, the special flaps low down in the outer air intakes –adapted from those on racing vehicles – reduce lift and emphasize the optimized aerodynamics of the two new models.
The sporting ambience onboard the new BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M is accentuated by the exclusive, electrically operated M Multifunction seats for the driver and front passenger – in fine-grain Merino leather with contrast stitching and embossed M logo in the backrests – and by the leather-covered BMW Individual instrument panel. Door sill strips with model lettering, aluminum interior trim strips and the standard Alcantara anthracite roof liner lend the interior an additional touch of exclusivity.
The new BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M come with an extensive range of exclusive equipment from the factory. Customers can also dip into a large selection of optional equipment which make their vehicle even sportier.
Standard-fitted exterior features painted in body color and fitting the classic M profile are a key factor in the striking appearance of the xDrive M cars.
Inside, both vehicles feature a selection of premium materials, performance oriented driving controls and an overall luxurious look. Items like the M steering wheel or the sports seats adorned with Merino leather all make up the interior of this vehicle. The M-specific standard equipment of both models also includes a Nappa leather dashboard, an Alcantara anthracite roof liner, aluminum interior trim strips, door sill finishers with model lettering, knee pads on the center console and an M footrest for the driver.
The two new M models also come as standard with an M-specific instrument cluster – complete with displays showing the gear selected, system status (engine dynamics, Dynamic Damper Control, M Servotronic), M Drive mode and a compass, the M Drive menu in the information display and M-specific buttons on the M leather steering wheel. The optional Head-Up Display for the new BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M also features a special M display including a digital speed display, gear display, rev band and shift lights.
Automatic air-conditioning, a Harman Kardon surround sound system and the iDrive system are found in the interior of both cars. Xenon and adaptive headlights are standard.
Additionally, a BMW M Laptimer app for smartphones is available so customers can access extensive analysis of their personal driving style on the track. With the smartphone linked up to the vehicle, the BMW M Laptimer app can be operated using the iDrive Controller. The app records the vehicle’s speed, lateral and longitudinal acceleration, the gear currently engaged, steering angle and accelerator position.
This data can subsequently be used to precisely analyze the driver’s actions and reactions at the various points around the track via graphic displays on the customer’s smartphone. Another feature allows two recordings on the same track to be compared corner-by-corner. The readings used here can be either the driver’s own or data shared by other drivers via email or social networks.
Here is a photo gallery of the two cars:
