In a recent press release, BMW slipped in a single line mentioning that the X5 M and X6 M models will be refreshed in the spring of 2023.

BMW may have slipped it in to dispel rumors about the upcoming X5 and X6 facelift, including the go-faster M models. The first rumor is that BMW plans to unveil the facelift, including the lesser M Performance models, in February as 2024 models.

The rumors, which are more poorly kept secrets at this point, start with the new engine already doing duty in the facelifted X7 M60i, XM, and 760i models. It's designated S68 and, like its predecessor, is a twin-turbo V8. Now, however, it comes standard with 48-volt mild hybrid technology for improved low-down performance.

According to the rumors, a detuned version of the new 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 will make its way into the M Performance X5 version, requiring a trim level suffix change.

That means the M Performance X5 and X6 M50i will become the X5 and X6 M60i. In the M50i models, it's said to make 530 horsepower, while the power jumps to 600 hp in the full-fat M models. That's the same as the current model, but we expect an upgrade in torque from the mild hybrid system, which currently sits at 553 lb-ft. The hybrid system will likely serve as a torque filler, ridding the engine of any turbo lag.

The rest of the drivetrain should remain largely untouched, keeping the eight-speed M Sport automatic transmission and model-specific xDrive AWD system.

Spy shots have already given us a good idea of how mild the facelift will be, barring the kidney grilles, which are inspired by the newer XM model. Thankfully, BMW isn't going down the road of colossal kidney grills for the facelift. The front and rear fascias will likely become even more aggressive, but the rest of the body panels will remain unchanged.

The interior will be upgraded with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch infotainment screen running BMW's latest iDrive 8 software.