In the wake of BMW’s overhaul of the X5 for the 2014 model year, BMW M GmbH has stepped up their game once again with 2016 BMW X5 M and X6 M. Set to compete with the leading performance SUVs currently on the market, including the Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG, Porsche Cayenne Turbo, and the supercharged Range Rover SVR. The 2016 X5 and X6 M will bring a sharp performance edge to an already crowded segment of the ultra-high performance SUV market.
Both the X5 and X6 receive the M division’s familiar 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8, an engine that has already made a name for itself in the M5 and M6. Direct injection and BMW’s TwinScroll turbo technology bring power up to an impressive 567 horsepower and 553 lb.-ft. of torque. Peak twist is available from just 2,200 rpm. Power is routed through an 8-speed M Steptronic transmission, 0-60 mph comes in at 4.0 seconds for both the X5 and X6 M, while both are electronically limited to 155 mph. These performance numbers will be at the top of the SUV segment upon the vehicles’ official release.
As with any M product, the X5 M and X6 M receive wider wheel arches, the M-specific aerodynamic mirrors, and menacing 21-inch sport wheels, which are wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sports. Massive 325/30/21 tires grace the rear, while 285/35/21s wrap the front. Adding to the X5/X6 M’s grip is intelligent xDrive all-wheel drive, which can deliver up to 100 percent of power to either axle in track situations. The SUVs also receive a revised version of BMW’s Dynamic Stability Control, which drivers can use to toggle between full traction control, M Dynamic mode, and traction control off settings–the X5/X6 M can be both a people hauler and a canyon carver.
Working in conjunction with M’s DSC is the Dynamic Damper Control System, allowing drivers to select a damper rate from comfort, sport, and sport plus. Self-leveling rear air suspension prevents vehicle squatting under heavy loads and improves ride quality altogether. Most interesting, though, is the M-exclusive Servotronic steering that will appear on the X5/X6 M–despite being an electrically-assisted system, it uses no energy when the vehicle is traveling straight ahead and can provide varying weights to suit the driver’s preferences. And of course, no M vehicle would be complete without an M-specific instrument cluster, aluminum paddle shifters, and M-badged door sills.
The X5/X6 M’s technology is impressive as well, with a laptimer integrated into iDrive and an advanced “professional” nav system that boasts 3D graphics. Harman Kardon sound, a park-distance control rear camera, and xenon headlamps come standard, making the X5/X6 M as luxurious as it is capable. All of this luxury and performance come at a price, however–$99,650 for the X5 M and $103,050 for the X6 M to start. Stay tuned on TFLcar.com for the X5/X6 M’s official debut at the 2014 LA Auto Show.
Please enjoy this TFLcar.com video review of the all-new 2014 BMW X5 with the “base” twin-turbo V8.
Frank caught automotive fever early in life. Hailing from a long line of car fanatics, he was able to recite the year and model of every car that passed him by age five. His passion and love for the automobile have only grown since then. When not thinking about cars, he is reading, writing, learning, or dreaming about them. His area of expertise is in the realm of German and Italian cars, of which Porsche is a favorite. Frank currently resides in the heart of NASCAR country in Charlotte, North Carolina, with his family. He enjoys driving exotic cars in the beautiful Carolina weather.
