M Versions of BMW X5 and X6 Unveiled - VIDEO ENHANCED

By Henny Hemmes
Senior European Editor
The Auto Channel

EDITOR'S NOTE: This page contains three relevant videos

MUNICH - April 5, 2009: After some ten years since the introduction, the BMW X5 finally gets an M model. BMW M GmbH. Also the much younger X6 gets the M model. Both the X5 and the X6 will get a new 4.4-liter twin turbo V-8 engine with 408 kW/555 hp at 5,750-6,000 rpm and 608 Nm or 501 lb-ft of torque consistently from 1,500-5,650 rpm. Both models accelerate in 4.5 seconds to 60 mph and have a top speed of 155 mph. With the optional M Drive package the top is 171 mph. Fuel consumpsion (EU cycle) is 13.9 l/100 kg which equals 20.3 mpg. CO2 emission is 325 g/km.

Click PLAY to watch test video of the X5 M

With the M TwinPower Turbo, BMW M GmbH has a world premiere: the V-8 is the first engine with a common exhaust emission manifold joining both rows of cylinders as well as twin scroll twin turbo technology. The turbocharger and catalytic converters are positioned in the V of the engine. The M models have brake regeneration and on-demand control of the electrical fuel pump. Also the detachable a/c compressor and the volume flow-controlled supply of hydraulic fuel to the anti-roll system that was introduced on the 7-Series is standard on the X5 M and the X6 M. It is also the first time that the M division builds all-wheel-drive models, in this case combining xDrive and Dynamic Performance Control with the special qualities of a typical M model.

Both M versions come with a special body structure for passenger safety, while six airbags and crash activated headrests in the front add to their safety as well. Bi-Xenon head lights, adaptive brake lights and 20-inch light alloy wheels with different size rubber front and rear come standard. Of course, we see M-trim in the interior: an M specific cockpit, M steering wheel, M seats, and M footrest. Also a special instrument panel with a variable pre-warning field in the rev counter, specific vehicle functions and while illumination of the display units are unique for the X5 M and X6 M. The X5 M will be available with a tow bar including an electrically swivelling ball head. For the X6 M a tow bar incorporating a removable ball head will be available as an option. For both models the maximum trailer load is 3,000 kg (6613 lbs).

Click PLAY to watch test video of the X6 M on a race track

The two new M models can be recognized by their bold M design with special air intakes in the front side panels and a rear air dam on the X6. Also, the two dual tail pipes in the exhaust system surrounded in both cases by the air dam are typically M style. It is known yet, when both M models will hit the market.

Click PLAY to watch test video of the X6 M on snow