New BMW X5 M and X6 M Head For LA Auto Show

By Henny Hemmes
Senior European Editor

THE HAGUE, NL. Today BMW M GmbH has released details and computer animated pictures of the new X5 M and the X6 M models. The fast BMW Sports Activity Vehicles will celebrate their world premiere at the Los Angeles Auto Show on November 19.

The previous generation that arrived in 2009, marked the debut of the high-performance BMW X models. The new X5 M and X6 M build on their predecessors with high performance that can be expected of M cars. I just mention their ability to accelerate from 0-62 mph in just 4.2 seconds. This is possible thanks to the new M TwinPower Turbo engine, the most power motor ever developed by BMW for an all-wheel-drive vehicle.

The 4.4-liter V8 unit produces 575 hp between 6,000 and 6,500 rpm with a maximum torque of 553 pound-feet between 2,200 and 5,000 rpm, which can be boosted by 52 lb-ft.

The engine is teamed to the 8-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic. It speaks for itself, that apart from performance, the M engineers also have focused on fuel consumption. And successfully so, as this has been reduces (in the European cycle) by 20 per cent from 20.3 mpg imp tot 25.5 mpg imp, with CO2 emissions als down by more than 20 per cent, to 258 g/km

The new M models clearly show their aspirations with large air intakes in the front, side gills with an M badge, the air breathers at the side, special M exterior mirrors, the typical M four tailpipe exhaust system and a rear spoiler for the X6 M. And, not to forget the special M specific 20-inch light-allow wheels or the optional 21-inch M light-allow wheels.

The new M models come with a nice selection of optional equipment for an ever sportier, or more comfortable feel. But expect luxury and exclusivity in the interior with M sport seats in Merino leather. A nice device is the BMW M Laptimer app for smartphones. Customers can access extensive analysis of their driving style on the track and with the smartphone linked to the car, the Laptimer app can be operated using the iDrive Controller. Good for checking during a pit stop! And sharing with other M owners via e-mail.

For our first drive with the new X5 M and X6 M, we will have to wait until the end of January. To see the fast models, please check out The Auto Chnnael's Press Pass Coverage of the 2014 LA Auto Show, which promises a lot more news than just these two fast Bimmers.