BMW is going to introduce a mid-life refresh to its popular X5 M and X6 M Competition siblings. Both cars will have the unique distinction to be the first M-tuned vehicles to feature a hybrid powertrain.
What’s new on the BMW X5 M & X6 M Competition?
Coming to the looks, the SUVs now come with blacked out kidney grilles. The front-end design of the cars is now inline with other BMW performance models. Infact, the looks are now more stubbier than even the M3, but the air vents further add to the muscular look while at the same time provide better engine and brake cooling.
Other new bits include twin-dual M Sport exhausts, forged alloys in a staggered pattern (22 inch rear, 21 inch front), slim LED headlamps and Competition badges. Meanwhile the X6 M Competition comes with a black lip spoiler.
On the inside, the SUVs are as luxurious as before. The upholstery consists of merino leather, full width BMW iDrive curved display and carbon-fibre shifters.
Powertrain of the BMW X5 M & X6 M Competition
The 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 now gets a crankshaft mounted electric motor. It is supported by a 48 V battery system. The engine delivers 616 BHP and 750 Nm while the motor adds around 12 BHP and 200 Nm when demanded.
BMW says that this motor will improve the mid-range performance of the SUVs. Infact, BMW says both cars will shift from 80-120 km/h in 3.2 seconds in the 4th gear. The top speed is restricted to 250 km/h but owners can opt for the optional M Driver’s Package to increase it to 290 km/h. That said, despite the added motor, both cars are 0.1 seconds slower to 100 km/h compared to the outgoing models. They hit the ton mark in 3.9 seconds instead.
BMW has mated this engine with an 8-speed Steptronic gearbox. While the power is sent to all the four wheels, there is an inherent rear bias.
Production of the BMW X5 M & X6 M Competition
BMW has scheduled production of these performance SUVs at the Spartanburg plant in the US from April 2023.
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