It could very well be official by now: BMW is going to take the veils off the X5 M and X6 M models pretty soon. Rumor has it that we could see them for the first time at SEMA but we’re more inclined to believe that the LA Auto Show will be the stage where they will see a live crowd for the first time.
In this regard, BMW decided to tease us and released a short video on Youtube showing the two models side by side hidden in a bunker and making a run for it from the paparazzi.
The video also seems to suggest that they are so fast, the photographers just couldn’t keep up with them and were terrorized by the sound of those might V8s. And we have to say they sound really good to us.
What’s going to be new on the F85 and F86 models
Compared to their predecessors, the F85 and F86 X5 and X6 M will bring plenty of improvements. As you probably noticed, they are using different codenames compared to their ‘regular’ counterparts, to tell a story of how much has changed to make them worthy of the M badge.
If in the past they shared their codenames with their lesser siblings, it’s a different approach now. Under the skin hides a chassis that was tuned to be lighter and stiffer than before. Although it’s just speculation right now, rumors claim that some of the tech used in the M3 and M4 will drip down into the X range.
A new gearbox will also be available, replacing the old 6-speed automatic. The 7-speed DCT unit will be used and it’s going to be thr first time we’ll get to see it work in conjunction with the xDrive system.
This move could also, very well, preface a similar transmission to be used on the new M5 if the rumors will be confirmed. It is being said that the upcoming high-performance sedan will get all-wheel drive as an optional feature.
Under the bonnet, the two will share the same 4.4-liter V8 twin-turbo engine that might be improved. We’re sure that the S63 will be dropped at least for the S63Tu version that has better fuel consumption and 5 extra HP (555 HP vs 560 HP). It’s also possible to see an even better version of this plant being used, with power closer to the 600 HP mark.
In the wake of an imminent Los Angeles Auto Show launch, let’s listen to the sound of this V8 one more time.
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