The new BMW X5 M Competition and the new BMW X6 M Competition

BMW M has extensively modified both models in key areas, further heightening the impact of its high-performance cars in the luxury Sports Activity Vehicle and Sports Activity Coupé segments.

For the new BMW X5 M Competition and BMW X6 M Competition, 48V technology makes its debut in the brand’s high-performance models, joining forces with a new V8 engine featuring M TwinPower Turbo technology. The electric motor and power electronics are integrated into the housing of the eight-speed M Steptronic transmission where it delivers an additional 12hp and 200Nm of torque.

The energy required is stored in a 48V battery in the engine compartment, charged through adaptive recuperation under braking and overrun. The electric motor also acts as a starter generator; after pausing at junctions or in traffic congestion, the 48V generator restarts the V8 engine quickly and unobtrusively.

The 4.4-litre V8 engine in the new BMW X5 M Competition and new BMW X6 M Competition stands out with its sharper response and increased efficiency. As well as a cross-bank exhaust manifold, the engine now features a reinforced crankshaft drive, optimised turbocharging – mounted close to the exhaust manifold with an electrically controlled blow-off valve – plus a new air intake duct, a new vane-type oil pump and a lightweight plastic oil sump. Emissions performance is enhanced by an optimised oil separation process with a variable impactor.

In addition to the two turbochargers with indirect charge air cooling located between the cylinder banks, the V8’s M TwinPower Turbo technology also includes High Precision Injection direct petrol injection, Valvetronic variable valve timing and double VANOS continuously variable camshaft control. Visually, it is marked out by a new engine cover with red graphic elements and a coloured M logo. As an option, the engine cover is also available in carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) with exposed fibre structure.

The new V8 delivers peak torque of 750Nm between 1,800 and 5,800rpm and generates maximum output of 625hp at 6,000rpm. The new BMW X5 M Competition and BMW X6 M Competition accelerate from 0 to 62mph in 3.9 seconds and reach 124mph in 13.8 and 13.6 seconds respectively. The new BMW X5 M Competition and BMW X6 M Competition sprint from 50 to 75mph in 3.2 seconds (4th gear) and 4.2 seconds (5th gear) respectively. The top speed of both models is electronically limited to 155mph, but can be raised to 180mph with the optional M Driver’s Pack.

Both models come as standard with 21-inch M light-alloy wheels at the front paired with 22-inch M light-alloy items at the rear. They are fitted with 295/35 R 21 tyres at the front and 315/30 R 22 at the rear.

Forged M light-alloy wheels with a star-spoke design are available as optional extras. They include a new variant in a Jet Black solid finish.

The BMW X5 M Competition and BMW X6 M Competition share a new powerful front-end design. The BMW kidney grille and central lower air intake form a single black area. A model-specific spoiler lip – also in black – forms the lower edge of the front apron on the new BMW X6 M Competition, and optimises aerodynamic balance.

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