More than 600hp of bi-turbo muscle propels BMW’s large X5 and X6 SUVs.
More than 600hp of bi-turbo muscle propels BMW’s large SUVs.
Does that power come from the M5? After introducing the latest M5 and M8 with a 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8, BMW has extended that brawny heart to the X5 and X6 SUVs. Like in the super sedan, coupe and convertible, the two SUVs have two power outputs to choose from: 600hp for a 3.9-second 0-100kph time and 625hp in Competition guise for a 0.1-second-quicker record. Both are 0.4 seconds quicker than before.
The eight-speed torque-converter automatic and all-wheel drive in the X5 M and X6 M are also shared with those three aforementioned models, but the adjustable brake pedal feel only comes from the M8.
The only thing the X5 M and X6 M don’t gain is the RWD-only mode for drifting hooligans. That’s probably due to their inferior driving dynamics caused by the higher centre of gravity when compared with the M5 and M8. The AWD Sport mode, however, allows for drive biased towards the rear axle.
How does the competition fare?
While Audi has never produced RS models for the Q7 and Q8, the new GLE from Mercedes-Benz hasn’t been revealed with the full-fat AMG treatment yet.
The GLE63 S Coupe based on the outgoing generation had a 585hp 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 and a 4.2-second acceleration time.
The Porsche Cayenne (and the sportier Coupe derivative) can be had in Turbo spec with a 550hp 4.0-litre bi-turbo V8 hitting 100kph from a standstill in 3.9 seconds; the 680hp Turbo S E-Hybrid does it in 3.7 seconds.
Despite being fractionally slower than the fastest Cayenne, the X5 M and X6 M would cost less on Thai shores with an expected range of 13-14 million baht should officialimports be considered.
Later this month, the Range Rover Sport SVR is set to make its debut in Thailand. It gets a 575hp 5.0-litre supercharged V8 good for 0-100kph in 4.5 seconds.