X6 M

Make
BMW
Segment
SUV

Having already tested the 2019 BMW X5, we can say it is a massive upgrade from the outgoing model. The X5 will soon be joined by a new plug-in variant, a faster M version, as well as a refreshed X6 and X6 M. Like the X5, the upcoming X6 should be powered by a 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.

The standard X6 should be revealed later this year but we aren't sure if the hardcore X6 M will also be revealed alongside it. We've already spotted BMW testing the X6 M but now our spy photographers have captured images of the SUV's interior.

The X6 M was seen testing in cold weather alongside the standard X6. Taking a peek inside, we are able to see a similar interior found on the standard X5, albeit with a few differences to differentiate it as an M car. The seats are clearly more aggressive than the ones installed on a standard X6 and look similar to the chairs found in the M5 sedan and the freshly revealed X3 M and X4 M.

Along with the sportier seats, the X6 M uses a different shifter than the non-M model. Instead of the black gloss plastic or glass used in the non-M, the X6 M uses a leather-wrapped shifter with M-color stitching and a button to control the shift speed of the transmission. Powering the X6 M, we expect to see the same 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 found in the M5 producing 600 hp in the base model and 617 hp if there is a Competition version. With so much power on tap, the X6 M should be properly quick.

Aside from the shifter and seats, the X6 M's interior will be mostly similar to the standard car. It appears this test mule lacks the red M1 and M2 buttons from the M5, X3 M, and X4 M, though this may change when the car reaches production. Judging from the rest of the exterior spy shots, the X6 will adopt many of the styling cues from the smaller X4. The X6's styling will likely be polarizing, like most SUV coupes, but with stiff competition from the Audi Q8 and upcoming replacement for the Mercedes GLE Coupe, BMW looks ready to compete.