X5 M

Make
BMW
Segment
SUV

Following the reveals of the current-generation BMW X5 and BMW X6, we knew it was only a matter of time before the hardcore M models followed. The wait is finally over as BMW has now revealed the all-new, third-generation X5 M and X6 M for the 2020 model year. BMW says both vehicles will be available starting in the spring of 2020 in standard and Competition guises.

Power comes from the same twin-turbocharged S63 V8 engine found in the current M5 producing 600 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque going out to M xDrive all-wheel-drive through an eight-speed automatic transmission. And that's just the base output. The Competition versions put out 617 hp and the same amount of torque.

BMW says the X5 M and X6 M can hit 60 mph in just 3.8 seconds while the Competition models can do the deed in 3.7 seconds. Top speed is 155 mph, increasing to 177 mph with the optional M Driver's Package, which also includes driver training at one of BMW's Performance Centers. Most of the engine's power is sent to the rear wheels, with power only being sent to the front when additional traction is required, giving these SUVs the handling characteristics expected of an M car.

The M division has also retuned the suspension to give it the perfect blend of everyday usability and track-ready capability. Both models use a double-wishbone setup with forged upper control arms in the front while the rear suspension is a five-link design. An Adaptive M suspension Professional with Active Roll Stabilization is standard on all models and includes sensors that can respond to the road surface and steering movements in milliseconds. Drivers can select from three suspension modes - Comfort, Sport, and Sport Plus - as well as comfort- and sport-oriented steering modes.

These are heavy vehicles but BMW has ensured they will stop quickly with 395 mm disks and fixed six-piston calipers up front and 380 mm rear discs with single-piston floating calipers in the rear. Standard models are fitted with 21-inch M light-alloy wheels wrapped in 295/35ZR21 front and 315/35ZR21 rear non-run-flat performance tires. Optionally, or standard on Competition models, you can also get staggered 21-inch wheels in the front with 22-inch wheels in the rear.

On the outside, BMW has made sure the M models are recognizable via their large front bumper air intake openings, M-specific BMW kidney grilles with black double-bars, M gills on the front fenders, aerodynamic side mirrors, flared wheel arches, and quad exhaust. The standard models receive a rear roof spoiler while the Competition models receive a more aerodynamic lower tailgate spoiler.

Inside, both cars feature a splash of red on the steering wheel and center console to give off a sportier vibe. BMW has also added red, blue and white M color stitching on the steering wheel and gear shifter. All models include a Black Extended Merino Leather interior as standard with the Competition models (or optionally on standard models) adding a Full Merino Leather interior in a choice of Silverstone, Sakhir Orange/Black, Adelaide Grey, Taruma Brown, Black or Ivory White/Night Blue with a color-matched Alcantara headliner.

Even though these are the performance versions, BMW hasn't skimped on technology and all of the standard iDrive features are present here with some additional M goodies thrown in for good measure.

Available color options include Alpine White, Carbon Black Metallic, Black Sapphire Metallic, Mineral White Metallic, Marina Bay Blue Metallic, Donnington Grey Metallic, Manhattan Green Metallic, and Tornado Red Metallic. There are also a few BMW Individual colors including Tanzanite Blue II Metallic and Ametrin Metallic.

Pricing begins at $105,100 for the X5 M and $114,100 for the X5 M Competition plus a $995 destination fee. The X6 M is a bit more expensive with pricing starting at $108,600 for the standard model and $117,600 for X6 M Competition.