A new kind of M-agnificent
STEP UP: BMW’S M SERIES RAISES THE BAR WITH PERFOMANCE FIGURES, DESIGN
W The new generation SUVs will hit SA shores in April.
hen the previous generation of the two cars arrived in 2009, it was the first time the high-performance character distilled by BMW M GmbH had been transplanted into an all-wheeldrive BMW X model.
The new BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M pull no punches in writing the next chapter of the brand’s story, with another step forward.
The new BMW X5 M and new BMW X6 M combine the characteristic features of the BMW X family – exclusivity, robustness, agility and everyday usability – with commitment to performance.
Both models complete the sprint from 0-100km/h in 4.2 seconds it is claimed, in conjunction with the standard eight-speed steptronic transmission.
Boasting TwinPower turbo technology with a pair of TwinScroll turbochargers, cross-bank exhaust manifolds, valvetronic and high-precision direct petrol injection, the 4.4 litre V8 produces maximum output of 423kW between 6 000rpm and 6 500rpm. That represents a 4% increase over the predecessor models. The step up is even clearer when it comes to the power development of the new engine. Peak torque has been boosted by 70Nm – an increase of 10%. Its 750Nm can be enjoyed across a broad rev range between 2 200rpm and 5 000rpm.
Fuel consumption of the new BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M in the EU cycle has been cut by 20% – from 13.9 litres/100km to 11.1 litres/100km (claimed). CO2 emissions are down to 258g/m.
The interior impresses with its combination of sporty features, materials and workmanship. The instrument cluster, leather steering wheel with aluminium gearshift paddles and gearshift lever are complemented by electrically operated sports seats for the driver and front passenger, a driver’s footrest and the optional head-up display which, in addition to the standard system, also includes an M-specific display with gear indicator, rev band and shift lights.
The new BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M will go on sale in South Africa in April.