Photo: Andrei Tutu
It was a rather interesting task taking a walk through the BMW stand at Detroit this year because there were so many M models on display. Even if there weren’t any M versions near you, you were at all times in close proximity to at least an M Performance automobile.
What caught our attention first and foremost were the two SUVs that came already prepared to take on the Nurburgring in Detroit. Yes, I’m talking about the X5 M and X6 M models.
There’s no doubt in anybody’s mind that if there’s to pick a flaw on the previous gen model, it’s the gearbox. It’s not that the old 6-speed automatic wasn’t up to par on performance but it simply lacked efficiency and the smooth operating character of the ZF-sourced 8-speed we’ve been getting used to lately.
Well, BMW fixed that and a couple of other complaints on the new models. The new X5 M comes with a standard 8-speed Steptronic gearbox now that’s hooked up to the xDrive system, offering incredible performance combined with the new S63 plant under the bonnet.
The 4.4-liter biturbo V8 was taken up to 575 HP and 750 Nm (553 lb-ft) of torque and became the most powerful plant ever put in massive production by the Bavarian brand. With it, the X5 M reaches 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.2 seconds, without even breaking a sweat, despite weighing 2.1 tons.
What immediately strikes you as you approach this car is the sheer grunt it exudes, without being kitschy at all or going too far. In the typical BMW fashion, hints that this is a true M car can be seen everywhere but the SAV is still elegant in the metal.
The seats are exquisite as well and they tell a story of comfort and great side bolstering. With 750 Nm (553 lb-ft) of torque coming in at 2,200 RPM, they better hold you in place! We’ll let you enjoy the photo gallery now, no more talking!
There’s no doubt in anybody’s mind that if there’s to pick a flaw on the previous gen model, it’s the gearbox. It’s not that the old 6-speed automatic wasn’t up to par on performance but it simply lacked efficiency and the smooth operating character of the ZF-sourced 8-speed we’ve been getting used to lately.
Well, BMW fixed that and a couple of other complaints on the new models. The new X5 M comes with a standard 8-speed Steptronic gearbox now that’s hooked up to the xDrive system, offering incredible performance combined with the new S63 plant under the bonnet.
The 4.4-liter biturbo V8 was taken up to 575 HP and 750 Nm (553 lb-ft) of torque and became the most powerful plant ever put in massive production by the Bavarian brand. With it, the X5 M reaches 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.2 seconds, without even breaking a sweat, despite weighing 2.1 tons.
What immediately strikes you as you approach this car is the sheer grunt it exudes, without being kitschy at all or going too far. In the typical BMW fashion, hints that this is a true M car can be seen everywhere but the SAV is still elegant in the metal.
The seats are exquisite as well and they tell a story of comfort and great side bolstering. With 750 Nm (553 lb-ft) of torque coming in at 2,200 RPM, they better hold you in place! We’ll let you enjoy the photo gallery now, no more talking!
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