A V8 engine developing up to 460 kW/625 hp, precisely controlled power transfer, an M-specific chassis – tailored to both the engine's performance profile and the SAV / SAC vehicle concept – and design features taken from the M playbook ensure imposing power and supremely controllable handling, even at the dynamic limits. The sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) is dispatched in just 3.9 seconds (Competition models: 3.8 seconds) – which is up to 0.4 seconds faster than the outgoing models. The intoxicating all-round performance package benefits from fine-tuning carried out during intensive testing at the BMW Group's proving grounds, the Nürburgring-Nordschleife and other race tracks. The new BMW X5 M, new BMW X6 M and Competition models will celebrate their show premieres at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November 2019 ahead of a market launch beginning in April 2020.

Significant power hike: high-revving V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology developing up to 460 kW/625 hp.

M TwinPower Turbo technology and the appetite for revs shared by all M models give the latest-generation V8 engine fitted in the new BMW X5 M, new BMW X6 M and Competition models an unmistakable performance profile. Its headline character traits are instant response to the slightest

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The 4.4-litre engine teams up with two turbochargers – positioned in the 'V' between the cylinder banks – whose impact is further enhanced by a cross-bank exhaust manifold. The power unit's maximum output of 441 kW/600 hp exceeds that of the predecessor models by 18 kW/25 hp; the Competition models add 37 kW/50 hp to hit a figure of 460 kW/625 hp. Torque, meanwhile, peaks at 750 Nm (553 lb-ft). A super-stiff engine mounting results in direct transmission of power to the drivetrain, and the sports exhaust system generates a soundtrack of particular emotional richness.

Precise power transfer: eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic, M xDrive and Active M Differential.

The high-performance engine in the new BMW X5 M, new BMW X6 M and Competition models teams up with an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic, whose gearshift characteristics can be adjusted using the Drivelogic button on the M-specific selector lever. The M xDrive all-wheel-drive system has been specially tuned to transfer drive to the road with characteristic élan and to optimise traction and directional stability on loose ground and in adverse weather conditions. M xDrive works in tandem with the Active M Differential at the rear axle and already displays a conspicuous rear-wheel bias in the default 4WD setting. However, the driver can also dip into the Setup menu to select 4WD Sport mode, in which an even greater proportion of the engine's torque is directed to the rear wheels.

M-specific chassis, integrated braking system.

The new high-performance additions to the SAV and SAC segments are fitted with extensive measures to optimise the stiffness of the body structure and suspension mountings. The model-specific design and tuning of the chassis technology also helps enhance handling precision. Standard specification includes M-specific adaptive suspension with electronically controlled dampers, the active roll stabilisation system and M Servotronic steering. The version of the integrated braking system developed for BMW M models presents the driver with two settings for brake pedal feel.

Extrovert design, variable-use interior, luxurious ambience.

The combination of typical SAV / SAC proportions with signature M design features lends the BMW X5 M, BMW X6 M and Competition models an extrovert appearance exuding supreme authority in any environment. Large air intakes, M gills on the front side panels, aerodynamically optimised exterior mirrors, a roof/rear spoiler, a rear apron with diffuser elements and the two pairs of exhaust tailpipes lay the technical platform required to deliver standout performance. The Competition models come with distinctive design highlights, among them exclusive M light-alloy wheels in 21-inch format at the front axle and 22-inch at the rear.

Once inside, the generously sized, variable-usage interior, raised seating position, high-quality materials and a level of build quality defined by precision workmanship radiate an aura of luxury. The classy, contemporary style of the cabin is complemented by displays and controls with the familiar M treatment, which help to sharpen the driver's focus on the ultra-sporting driving experience at their fingertips.

Operating system creates intense M feeling; exclusive standard equipment.

A Setup button on the centre console enables direct access to the settings for the engine, dampers, steering, M xDrive and braking system. Two individually composed variants of this M setup can be stored and called up at any time by pressing one of the two red M buttons on the steering wheel. Added to which, the information shown in the instrument cluster and Head-Up Display and the functionality of the driver assistance systems can both be varied using the M Mode button on the centre console.

The exclusive selection of equipment fitted as standard includes the BMW Head-Up Display with M-specific readouts, M multifunction seats, BMW Individual fine-grain Merino full leather trim, BMW Live Cockpit Professional with navigation system, BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant and Parking Assistant. Available from the options list, meanwhile, are an array of advanced driver assistance systems and exclusive options designed to further enhance comfort and individuality.

by BMW

V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology, eight-speed M Steptronic transmission, M xDrive all-wheel drive

BMW M GmbH is unveiling the third generation of its high-performance executive Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) and Sports Activity Coupe (SAC) models. The allure of the new BMW X5 M and new BMW X6 M – and the BMW X5 M Competition and BMW X6 M Competition models set to be launched alongside them in April 2020 – resides not only in their flamboyant design and luxurious character, but most notably also in class-leading dynamism, agility and precision. At the heart of their sublime powertrain / chassis composition is the latest incarnation of the high-revving V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology developed by BMW M GmbH. The eight-cylinder unit boasts two turbochargers with indirect charge air cooling, a cross-bank exhaust manifold, direct petrol injection and VALVETRONIC variable valve timing, enabling it to deliver maximum output of 441 kW/600 hp in the BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M and 460 kW/625 hp in the Competition models.

The 4.4-litre V8 works in tandem with an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic, a version of the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system specially tuned for these models and the Active M Differential, delivering superlative propulsive power over any terrain and revealing signature M performance combined with X model versatility. The new BMW X5 M and new BMW X6 M both accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.9 seconds and they reach 200 km/h (124 mph) in 13.7 and 13.5 seconds respectively. The new BMW X5 M Competition races to 100 km/h (62 mph) from rest in 3.8 seconds and to 200 km/h (124 mph) in 13.4 seconds. The new BMW X6 M Competition, meanwhile, stops the clock at 3.8 seconds and 13.2 seconds for the same two sprints. All models have an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph), which increases to 290 km/h (180 mph) if the optional M Driver's Package is selected.

Power delivery and sound production in characteristic M style. The high-revving V8 unit has been crafted in the M mould, as demonstrated by its instant response to the slightest movement of the accelerator, precisely controllable power delivery and linear wave of thrust into the upper echelons of the rev range under full throttle. The engine features a sleeve-free crankcase with a closed-deck construction and a forged crankshaft with extremely high torsional rigidity. Its pair of twin-scroll turbochargers are nestled in the 'V' between the banks of cylinders. The use of a cross-bank exhaust manifold enhances the turbocharging system's responsiveness and efficiency. Merging the exhaust gas flows from two cylinders at a time means extremely steady transmission of the resultant energy to the turbine wheels. The improved flow rate of gas through the manifold has the additional effect of optimising the gas-exchange cycle in the combustion chambers. The engine's power build-up, efficiency and emissions performance all reap the benefits of the latest High Precision Injection direct petrol injection technology, which operates at a maximum pressure of 350 bar to ensure exceptionally fine atomisation of the fuel.

The eight-cylinder unit generates peak torque of 750 Nm (553 lb-ft) between 1,800 and 5,600 rpm in the new BMW X5 M and new BMW X6 M, while the maximum output of 441 kW/600 hp arrives at 6,000 rpm. The rev ceiling is set at 7,200 rpm. The engine's high-revving character enjoys even greater

prominence in the specially tuned performance characteristics of the engine fitted in the new BMW X5 M Competition and BMW X6 M Competition models. Here, peak torque remains on tap all the way up to 5,800 rpm, while maximum output – reached at 6,000 rpm – is an even higher 460 kW/625 hp.

Both variants of the V8 have a bespoke mounting. The power unit's firm connection to the vehicle's structure results in remarkably instantaneous engine response and direct transmission of its power to the drivetrain. The engine mounting's stiff configuration also makes the car sharper on turnin

while dampening the transmission of engine noise to the cabin. The V8 delivers its prodigious power to the dramatic soundtrack generated by the model-specific exhaust system. Featuring dual-branch pipework with large cross sections, high-capacity silencers, electrically controlled flaps and

two pairs of 100 mm tailpipes positioned either side of the rear apron in customary M fashion, it produces an aural accompaniment that stirs the emotions. The drive note varies in nature to match the mode selected for the engine characteristics, although drivers can soften the cars' acoustic

presence at any time by pressing the M Sound Control button on the centre console. The sound emitted by the M Sport exhaust system – which comes as standard in the Competition models and is available as an option for the BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M – captures all of the engine's free-revving

eagerness and propulsive power to even more thrilling effect. To keep pollutant emissions down, gasoline particulate filters have been incorporated into the two branches of both exhaust systems.

Cooling and oil supply systems designed for track use.

A sophisticated cooling system precision-tuned to the engine's specific design and output optimises temperature management in all load scenarios, from short journeys in urban traffic to demanding mountain drives and track use. The low-temperature circuit incorporates the indirect charge air coolers,

while the high-temperature circuit – comprising the central cooler and a second remote one in the left-hand wheel arch, plus a mechanical water pump – supplies coolant to the engine blocks and the two turbochargers. An additional electric water pump allows turbocharger cooling to continue

for a certain length of time once the engine has been switched off. Another cooler located in the right-hand wheel arch cools the engine oil and there is also a dedicated cooler for controlling the temperature of the transmission oil. The engine oil supply system has also been designed with the specific

demands of track use in mind. Consequently, the oil sump includes a smaller front sump that steps in when extra capacity is needed. And an additional suction stage allows the map-controlled oil pump to draw lubricant as required. All of this ensures a reliable supply of oil at all times, even when

subject to extreme rates of lateral and longitudinal acceleration. Eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic and three shift modes.

The latest version of the eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic is perfectly tuned to the V8's performance characteristics. Its direct link to the engine, optimum ratio spacing and extremely short shift times mean that drive power is relayed with striking dynamism. The transmission is operated using the most recent incarnation of the M-specific gear selector complete with Drivelogic button. The M shift paddles on the steering wheel give the driver the option of manual control over the gear selection process.

The Drivelogic function makes it possible to adjust the transmission's shift characteristics in both automatic and manual modes by activating one of three clearly distinguishable settings. Drivers can choose from setups that have been specially configured for a more comfortable ride, sharper driving

dynamics or ultra-sporty driving respectively.

M xDrive all-wheel-drive system and Active M Differential ensure extremely dynamic on-road performance and masterful off-road ability.

M xDrive all-wheel drive system with bespoke tuning and the Active M Differential allow the new SAV and SAC models from BMW M GmbH to transfer the engine's exceptionally high drive torque to the road in full and with unruffled poise at all times. Together, these two examples of engineering

wizardry maximise traction, agility and handling stability when the cars' sporting capabilities are truly put to the test, in adverse weather conditions and over loose terrain. The engine's torque is distributed between the front and rear wheels with creamy smoothness and fully variably by means of the

electronically controlled multi-plate clutch in the M xDrive system's transfer case, before the Active M Differential splits it again between the two rear wheels, as needs dictate. The two systems adapt to the changing driving situation and the driver's inputs with remarkable rapidity and precision,

allowing the occupants of the new BMW X5 M, new BMW X6 M and Competition models to experience their performance qualities in rare depth. The sensitive, direct responses to movements of the accelerator and steering wheel are a defining factor in the cars' handling, allowing them to be guided

with unerring accuracy even when pushed to the limit. Meanwhile, the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system – interlinked with both the M xDrive allwheel drive and the Active M Differential – only needs to intervene in extreme situations.

The M xDrive system's rear-biased distribution of power also helps to produce the kind of handling characteristics for which M models are renowned. It only brings the front axle into play when the rear wheels aren't able to transmit any more power to the road and additional tractive force is required. Drivers also have the option – via the Setup menu – of configuring the power split between the front and rear wheels to suit their requirements. The default 4WD setting combines dynamic prowess with maximum traction and easy handling control. 4WD Sport mode brings extra intensity to the driving experience with a substantial increase in agility. The system directs a greater proportion of the engine's torque to the rear wheels, the linear build-up of lateral forces characteristic of M models even making it possible to execute controlled drifts while staying effortlessly in control of the car.

A mid-size crossover SUV unveiled in 1999, the BMW X5 was BMW's first SUV also known as 'Four-by-Four' in the UK. All BMW X5's are manufactured in Spartanburg, South Carolina. The X5 comes with all-wheel drive and is available with either manual or automatic transmission along with a range of gasoline inline-6s, V8s and diesel engines are available. Rather than being a SUV, BMW describes the X5 as a Sport Activity Vehicle (SAV) to shift emphasis on its on-road capability despite its size. The BMW X5 brought about the shift from truck-based body-on-frame SUVs to sedan-based crossovers that would have occurred in the late 2000s. The X5 was powered by the V8 4.4i with a manually shiftable five-speed automatic transmission.

In the late 1990s, Chris Bangle came up with the first sketches at the BMW DesignworksUSA studio in California, and in many ways, the current X5 still closely resembles these initial sketches. Rover's takeover ended up being helpful for BMW in the area of development of the X5. The engineers at BMW were able to review and use Range Rover technology and parts in their design of the X5, including hill-descent control. The design of the X5 was heavily influenced by its British counterpart, included the two-piece tailgate taken directly from the Range Rover. Numerous parts and electronics were also taken directly from the E39 5 Series parts bit to save on costs.

The X5 was designed as a sporting road car, in contrast to the Range Rover models, unfortunately the X5's off-road capabilities were significantly less than those of Land Rover. BMW made it well known that the X5 was referred to as an SAV rather than a SUV. Though the X5 was an all-wheel drive vehicle, BMW chose from the start to route 62% of the engine's torque to the rear wheels, working hard to make it feel as similar as possible to the company's rear-wheel drive sedans.

BMW launched a smaller version, the X3 in 2003, which used the ‘X' prefix applied to the BMW SAVs which were derivatives of the BMW number-series models.

The first generation of the BMW X5 crossover vehicle was introduced in 1999 and was produced until 2003 and had a wheelbase of 110.0 inches, an overall length of 183.7 inches and a width of 73.7 inches. The X5 was produced until September of 2006 and was replaced by the BMW E70. At the time that the E53 was developed, BMW still owned Land Rover and because it this is shares many of the components and designs with both Land Rover and also the BMW E39 5-series.

For 2001 no changes were made on the BMW X5. For 2002 the high-performance 4.6is model was introduced with a 340-horsepower V8 engine. Against Mercedes-Benz ML 50/ML55 AMG, the X5 was quite a big contender. Along with this were aero body add-ons, and the new model received 20-inch wheels along with a special sportier interior. For this year option packages received some content revisions.

The Premium group now came with rain-sensing wipers, a sunroof for both the 3.0i and 4.4i and automatic climate control for the 3.0i. The 4.4i edition could also be equipped with a new Rear Climate package that included privacy glass and rear window shades. Optional were rear torso side-impact airbags.

For 2004 the X5 didn't change much and a revised model was debuted in 2004. The all new X5 was revamped completely, and a new 6-speed manual transmission option, and a 315 hp V8 compared to the previous year's 290 hp in 2004. The 04 X5 also received new headlights, a few new exterior colors, upgraded engines and a new four-wheel drive system. The grilles were enlarged along with their actually slats being modified in a ‘flame surfaced' style. The X5's headlights received ‘angel-eyes' which were rings or halos around all front headlamps.

The 2004 taillights also received a similar facelift to the BMW E39 and the exterior glass was transformed from a ‘dotted' pattern to a cleaner ‘line' pattern. Called xDrive, BMW invented a new four-wheel drive system that was shared both in the X5 and X3 in 2005. Rather than using the earlier X5 system which had consisted or power being split 62-38 (rear wheels – front wheels) and DSC to brake wheels losing traction, the xDrive could vary power to the front or rear axles in milliseconds which transferred up to 100% of engine power to either axle, therefore allowing the vehicles to regain traction quickly.

Additional extras were added to the 2004 X5 were soft-boot close feature which allowed the top part of the trunk to pull itself closed, Trailer Stability program which made it an ideal tow vehicles and adaptive headlights. At the end of 2003 it was originally announced along with the rest of the X5 facelift, the X5 4.8is first started shipping in April 2004. Replacing the 4.6 L engine was a new larger 4.8 L engine that was also later used in the 2005 750i/Li. It also included a slightly modified bodykit, 20' wheels and along with the 4.6is were the only X5's ever to feature large chrome-tipped exhaust which hid the quad pipes.

For the 2005 version a few optional versions became standard on BMW's American-built SUV. The 4.4i offered newly standard front and rear obstacle detection which was optional on 3.0i. Now steering linked were Xenon headlights which were standard on V8s and optional on the 3.0i. Along with the rest of the BMW lineup (apart from the E65 7 series) the 2005 X5 received Bluetooth kits straight from the factory if ordered with the Premium Package.

For the 2006 BMW X5 no significant changes were made. The X5 wasn't fitted with the new BMW R6 engine which upped power for both the 2.5i and 3.0i I6 versions of the 2006 X3 and Z4 significantly. Some rumors implied that BMW held back deploying the engine in the 2006 X5 so they didn't waste development costs in retooling the assembly line so they could make way for a more dramatic unveiling of the new 2007 BMW X5. This year was also the end of the E53 X5 as well.

The second generation of the BMW X5, the E70 was introduced in 2008 and had a wheelbase of 115.5 inches, a length of 191.3 inches, a wheelbase of 115.5 inches and a width of 76.1 inches. The E70 is the current X5 SAV which replaced the BMW E53 in November of 2006. The E70 platform replaced the BMW E53 as the X5's underpinnings. A ton of new technological advancements were introduced on the E70-based X5 SAV including BMW's iDrive system as standard equipment, and the first for a BMW, an optional third row seat.

This current generation incorporates safety innovations for the crossover segment like a unique rear framing section that protected 3rd row occupants from injury due to an impact. From late 2008 until the new BMW branding scheme, the X5 3.0sd is now called the X5 XDrive 35D and the 4.8 i is called the X5 XDrive 48I.

During the spring of 2000, a lower-priced six-cylinder 3.0i edition was introduced with a standard five-speed manual transmission and optional four-speed automatic. Both of these models were produced in South Carolina on an exclusive uni-bodied platform. BMW X5's came with a standard permanently engaged four-wheel drive, traction control, all-disc antilock braking, an antiskid system and a tailgate with separate lift glass.

Not intended for severe off road use the X5's four-wheel drive system lacked low-range gearing. Instead, the XM automatically brakes individual wheels to limit slippage in low-grip conditions. The speed was limited to 6 mph down steep slopes down a standard hill descent control.

The standard equipment included power tilt/telescopic steering wheels, 70/30 split folding rear seats and front side-impact airbags which were head-protecting tubular airbags that deployed from above front door windows in a side impact.

Optional on the X5 were rear lower-body side airbags. A load-leveling suspension was included on the 4.4i and optional for the 3.0i, along with 18 inch wheels and tires, wood interior trim and leather upholstery. A Sport Package was available and included black exterior trim, a sport suspension and the 4.4i received 19-inch tires. Available with either model was an optional navigation system with dashboard-mounted video screen. The biggest competitor for the X5 was the Lexus RX 300, the Mercedes-Benz M-Class and the Acura MDX.

BMW produced a one-off version of the X5 that was dubbed the X5 LM and equipped it with the M70 S70B56 V12 engine from the Le Mans winning BMW V12 LRM. In 2000 it was driven by Hans Joachim Stuck to receive a lap record at the Nürburgring.

by Jessican Donaldson