It’s tempting to view the BMW X6 M through the same lens that you would view the Cadillac Escalade EXT — you know, the pickup truck — a one-off anomaly that history will look back on and shrug. Hubris for the sake of hubris, etc. But that sure ain’t how Mercedes views the stylized attack wagon from BMW. No, Mercedes went on ahead and recorded a note-for-note cover version of BMW’s wacky song. Why? Follow the money, as BMW sure made a wheelbarrow full of it with the last generation X6M. This one is all new, as is the GLE63 Coupe S. But which hunchback of the Nürburgring is best? On this episode of Head 2 Head presented by Tire Rack, host Jonny Lieberman finds out!
The new BMW X5 M and new BMW X6 M see BMW M GmbH setting the pace once again 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 GmbH had been transplanted into an all-wheel-drive BMW X model. The result was class-leading dynamics. The new BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M pull no punches in writing the next chapter in this success story with another significant step forward in dynamic excellence, distinct M design and outstanding efficiency. 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, both models will arrive in US showrooms in the Spring of 2015.
An open door to controlled drifts.
Among the other highlights of the overall concept behind the new BMW X5 M and new BMW X6 M is Dynamic Stability Control (DSC). The control functions of DSC have been Optimized over previous versions of the system to improve driving dynamics further still. The extra functions which have become part of DSC enhance active safety (Brake Standby, Brake Drying, Fading Compensation) and comfort (Start-Off Assistant, parking brake with automatic hold function).
The new BMW X5 M and new BMW X6 M combine the characteristic features of the successful BMW X family – exclusivity, robustness, agility and everyday usability – with the commitment to high performance that defines an M vehicle. The latter is resoundingly highlighted by the vehicles’ impressive performance figures. Both models complete the sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 4.0 seconds in conjunction with the new eight-speed M Steptronic transmission.
Innovative engine technology.
The new M TwinPower Turbo V8 for the BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M is the most powerful engine ever developed by BMW for an all-wheel-drive vehicle. Boasting innovative M TwinPower Turbo technology with a pair of TwinScroll turbochargers, cross-bank exhaust manifolds, VALVETRONIC and High Precision Direct Injection, the 4.4-liter V8 produces maximum output of 567 hp between 6,000 and 6,500 rpm. That represents a 3 percent increase over the predecessor models. The step up is even clearer when it comes to the power development of the new engine. Peak torque has been boosted by 53 lb-ft which equates to a rise of 10 percent. Its 553 lb-ft can be enjoyed across a broad rev range between 2,200 and 5,000 rpm.
At the same time, fuel consumption of the new BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M in the European cycle (official EPA values will be available closer to the start of sales) has been cut by 20 percent, CO2 emissions are likewise down by more than 20 percent, to 258 g/km. The two models accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4.0 seconds through the standard eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic. Top speed is limited to 250 km/h (155 mph).
