Currently sitting atop BMW’s X5 range is the 4.8is but recent news from the boss of BMW’s M division, Ludwig Willisch, has confirmed that performance variants of both the X5 and X6 SUVs are in development. A performance SUV doesn’t really fit in with the M philosophy of increased performance through reduced weight but the allure of the two-ton sports market was most likely too strong even for BMW and its famed M division to resist. These latest spy photos reveal the car even more clearly than previous shots, showing an aggressive but restrained design and classic X5 styling.

The performance SUV, designed to challenge the Porsche Cayenne and Mercedes Benz ML63 AMG, will pick up a new twin-turbocharged 4.4L V8 delivering more power and torque than the current 5.0L V10 in the M5 and M6 line of cars. Speaking with Auto Motor und Sport, an inside source revealed that output could be as high as 507hp (373kW) and 516lb-ft (700Nm) of torque – enough for 0-60mph times of less than five seconds and an electronically top speed of 155mph.

"In terms of overall performance, the new engine doesn't give anything away to the powerplant we run now, but it delivers much better consumption and lower emissions," the source explained.

In addition to turbocharging, BMW will likely add automatic stop/start and brake regeneration technologies to further reduce fuel consumption and emissions. To further differentiate the vehicle from the standard X5, expect to see trademark M features such as pumped fenders, side grilles, a sporty bodykit, and large diameter quad exhaust pipes.

 

thats much better, classic x5 gangster look

 

BMW's "terrible twins" have been officially unleashed upon us. Details of the X5 M and the X6 M have been confirmed, from the engine size and power output to styling details. It has been more than a year since speculation began over BMW M Division's first foray into the world of über SUVs. Since then spy pictures of both vehicles, together and separately, have done the proverbial rounds.

Both the X5 M and X6 M are fitted with a newly-developed 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 making a confirmed 555hp (408kW) at 6,000rpm and maximum torque of 500 lb-ft (678Nm) between a very broad band of 1,500 and 5,650rpm. The turbos produce maximum boost pressure of 1.5 bar.

Mated to an M engine for the first time is a 6-speed M Sports Automatic transmission with full automatic mode as well as M driving mode. The latter can be actuated with the gear lever or with paddles behind the steering wheel. The driver can rev it up all the way to the redline before changing gears without any automatic interference from the car. This is also useful for the launch control function. Combined with xDrive AWD these and other systems are said to give both cars a 0 - 60mph sprint time of 4.5 seconds. Top speeds were not given but it is safe to assume an electronically limited figure of 155mph (250km/h).

The X6's Dynamic Performance Control system is now available for the X5 M too. Working in conjunction with xDrive it assists in keeping the vehicles grounded and grip to a maximum. With a weight distribution ratio of close on 50:50 these twins are already well-balanced for performance.

The wheels are 20-inch alloys and tyres are runflat types with sizes 275/40 R 20 at the front and 315/35 R 20 at the rear. Features include ABS brakes, trailer stability control, Servotronic steering, an electronic parking brake with autohold and hill descent control. Other nice stuff includes rain sensors, cruise control, iDrive, adaptive xenon headlights and rear view cameras.

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YouTube - BMW X6 M Beauty Footage

 

My mom had a x5 4.6is, before she got the six, and I had it one week cause she went out of town. Out of every car I have ever driven in or drove that thing by far was the biggest surprise/sleeper I came across yet. I did not expect something that big and heavy to perform like that. It handles really good and accelerates good as well but a twin turbo m version, that thing has got to move. I would hate to see a price tag on something like that. I would love to walk in a room and see the motor laid out in parts like that, I wouldnt leave until it was done

 

"Performance SUV" is an oxymoron I never quite "got". . .

 

Really for daily transportation there really isnt a reason to have a performance anything. the object is to get to where you going. There is no real reason to get there fast or in a performance vehicle period. But they make fast cars cause we love them, not cause we need them. I dont think you have seen a dakaar ralley have you??? But I think they make stuff like this for the guy who wants a sports car, but has kids and cargo, and groceries to carry, you know normal people. Lets see you fit 6 people in a sports coupe. Plus its the ultamte sleeper, thats good in all weather!