BMW recently capitalized on the demand for high-performance SUVs with the first ever X3 M and X4 M, and now it's wasting no time giving the larger X6 the M performance treatment. BMW hasn't unveiled the next-generation X6 yet, but development of the hot M version is clearly already underway. While we've already seen prototypes of the new X6 M being put through their paces, this prototype photographed by our spies is sporting less camouflage than before, giving us our best look yet at BMW's upcoming performance SUV.

We get a good look at the aggressive front fascia where the large intakes are now much more visible. M-specific mirrors have also been added to the SUV, while the quad exhaust pipes at the back, bigger wheels, and beefy brakes featuring blue calipers and drilled discs make it abundantly clear we're not looking at the standard version of the new X6.

Like the regular X6, the X6 M will ride on BMW's new CLAR platform that underpins the 5 Series, 7 Series, X5, and Rolls Royce Phantom, which should make it lighter and more fun to drive. Under the hood, the new X6 M is expected to use the same 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 found in the M5 producing 600 hp in the base model and 617 hp in the hotter Competition version.

The standard X6, on the other hand, should be powered by the X5's 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six with 335 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque or a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 with 465 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque. Previous spy shots have shown the new X6's interior will look similar to the X5, with the M version adopting sportier seats and a different shifter.

BMW is expected to unveil the new X6 before the end of the year, so the hot M version may not arrive until next year.