What's this all about?
BMW has revealed its second generation X5 M and X6 M, powered by a 575hp engine and making their world debuts at the 2014 LA Auto Show next month.
M fans aren't going to be happy...
It's true; there are many traditionalists that don't like the use of the coveted 'M' on the large X5 and X6, but the first generation, launched in 2009, was a big success for the company, so it was only a matter of time before these cars came along.
Ok, tell us about that engine.
It's based on the 4.4-litre V8 unit found in the BMW M5 and M6, but has been revised for the X twins. As ever two twin scroll turbochargers feed it air and all manner of tweaks and technology additions help it produce more power and torque than the first generation X5 M and X6 M had at their disposal, while reducing fuel consumption and emissions by 20 per cent. In cold hard numbers, that means 575hp at 6,000- to 6,500rpm; 750Nm of torque produced from 2,200- to 5,000rpm; while returning 25.5mpg on the combined cycle and emitting 258g/km.
But it has a lot of bulk to shove around...
That it does, and we don't have any weight figures for the new cars as yet, but the 0-62mph time of 4.2 seconds is none too shabby. BMW continues with its adherence to the gentleman's agreement by limiting the top speed to 155mph.
But will it be any good to drive?
It depends on your definition of good... We're not expecting it to cause ride and handling geeks to eulogise the intricacies of the experience, but as ever the M division is likely to give the laws of physics a bloody nose and we'll all be amazed at how quickly it corners. Interestingly, though the gearshift paddles and stubby M gearshift lever suggest otherwise, the X5 M and X6 M have a conventional eight-speed automatic gearbox, and not the company's dual-clutch item.
Anything else of note?
Not as yet, but we'll be in LA to see the covers come off the new cars and will grill the engineers on your behalf. BMW UK has confirmed that the super SUV twins will arrive in April 2015 costing £90,170 and £93,070 for the X5 M and X6 M respectively.
Shane O' Donoghue - 29 Oct 2014
