Beefy!

That's one way to put it. You're looking at the 2020 BMW X5 M and X6 M, two new high-performance SUVs that very much wear their hearts on their sleeves. The range-topping Competition versions are pictured (the only versions to be sold in the UK), with their extra dark detailing, but even so, it would be difficult to miss the aggressive new radiator grilles, vented front bumpers and, of course, the quad exhaust systems and spoilers out back.

Same as the BMW M5 underneath?

To a certain extent, yes. The X5 M and X6 M Competition variants get the uprated twin-turbo 4.4-litre V8, the one that sends 625hp and 750Nm of torque through its unsuspecting eight-speed automatic gearbox. And that (which has various modes of operation and ferocity), is attached to the M xDrive four-wheel-drive system. Though there's no rear-drive-only mode for the X5/X6 M, drivers can choose from 4WD or 4WD Sport settings, which affect how the fully variable centre differential and electronically controlled Active M rear differential operate. Needless to say, it's rapid, with a 0-62mph time of 3.8 seconds quoted for both cars, along with the usual top speed limiter set at 155mph (unless you pay for it to be reset to 180mph).

Can the chassis cope?

Well, it certainly seems that BMW M has given it a good chance to. The whole chassis is uprated, focusing initially on torsional rigidity of the body and then the mountings of the suspension itself. This is bespoke to the M models and includes three-stage adaptive damping and active anti-roll control as standard. There are M compound brakes and BMW's new selectable pedal feel system, too.

What's the interior like?

Just as you'd expect from an M car based on a luxury SUV: lashings of equipment and technology accentuated by bright red detailing (M driving mode buttons and engine-start button), plenty of carbon fibre and some distinctly sporty front seats.

And when can I get my hands on one?

Not until April 2020, apparently, though I'm sure your local BMW M dealer will be more than happy to talk you through the ordering process right away... If you want to see the X5 M and X6 M in person before that, pop along to the LA Auto Show in November, as that's where they'll get their world debut. The X5 M is priced from £110,610 on-the-road, while the X6 M is £113,310.

Shane O' Donoghue - 1 Oct 2019