It's the moment power-hungry crossover lovers have been waiting for; Munich has officially swiped the covers off its first ever M-prepped "X"models, the X5M and the X6M. Without any doubt, these are the most divisive models ever to wear the M badge. However, BMW vows that both crossovers feature all the typical sport characteristics one would expect from an M-badged model. Under the hood, this translates to an all-new 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine that cranks out 555HP at 6,000 rpm and a whopping 680Nm or 501-lbs/ft of peak torque available between 1,500 and 5,650 rpm.
Those figures put to shame the M5's and M6's 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V10 that generates 507HP and 520Nm or 383-lbs/ft of peak torque. But no need to worry as from what our sources tell us, the new twin-scroll turbo V8 will replace the V10 in the next generation M5 and M6 models.
For the first time in a BMW M model, the X5M's and X6M's V8 is matted to a six-speed automatic transmission with shift paddles on the steering wheel. Both models retain BMW's intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive system, though it has been revamped to distribute more power to the rear wheels.
In terms of performance, both M models accelerate to 100 km/h (62mph) from a standstill in 4.7 seconds and reach an electronically limited top speed of 250km/h (155mph) or 275km/h (171mph) with the optional "M Driver's Package".
BMW's M division engineers have also performed upgrades on the X5's and X6's suspension setup as well as on the Dynamic Performance Control, the Servotronic steering system and the brakes which now combine four-piston fixed calipers at the front with floating calipers at the rear, with internally-vented and larger discs.
Cosmetic changes are common for both models. On the outside they include a new bodykit that consists of new front and rear bumpers, rocker panels, side gills, quad exhaust tail pipes and 20-inch alloy wheels. Inside, the X5M and X6M feature the usual M-branded sport steering wheel and leather seats as well as a revised instrument panel.
BMW X5M PHOTOS
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BMW X6M PHOTOS
