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You are > Home > BMW X5 M & X6 M ready to set a new benchmark
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Thursday, April 16, 2009
BMW X5 M & X6 M ready to set a new benchmark
BMW is renowned for pushing back automotive boundaries and the new BMW X5 M and X6 M are two models that set a new benchmark.
Never before has the marque offered such powerful and dynamically capable vehicles in a four-wheel drive package with a command driving position.
As the first xDrive four-wheel drive cars, the BMW X5 M and the X6 M are a journey into new territory for BMW, while the twin-turbocharged 555hp V8 engine heralds the launch of the most powerful road-going M car the company has ever launched.
The new range flagships to the X5 and X6 portfolio are both powered by the same 4,395cc twin turbocharged V8 engine producing a maximum power output of 555hp at 6,000rpm.
Such prodigious performance equates to a zero to 62mph time of 4.7 seconds – comparable to the critically acclaimed BMW M3.
The X5 M and X6 M, courtesy of twin-scroll twin-turbo technology, are also capable of near diesel-powered engine flexibility with a peak torque of 680Nm from just 1,500rpm through to 5,650rpm.
Aiding the high performance characteristics of both vehicles is the unique configuration of the V8 engine. In a world first for an M badged vehicle, both the turbochargers and the catalytic converter are located within the vee of the powerplant.
This arrangement results in an engine that breathes better and operates at a higher efficiency due to the shorter exit manifold.
It also results in better packaging as the unit is more compact.
Transmitting the power to the road in the X5 M and the X6 M is a drivetrain incorporating a new six-speed M Sport Automatic transmission, the class-leading xDrive four-wheel drive system and Dynamic Performance Control, all refined by M GmbH engineers to suit the new high performance vehicles.
With the capability to select a Drive mode, a Sports mode and a Manual mode the driver can choose his preferred programme depending on mood and prevailing road and traffic conditions. Enhancing the package is the specification of Dynamic Performance Control on both vehicles.
Like every new BMW currently on sale, the X5 M and the X6 M come with elements of BMW’s award-winning EfficientDynamics programme fitted as standard.
The X5 M and X6 M customer can fine tune the chassis of their new vehicle for greater enjoyment. The customer can configure the Electronic Damper Control, Head-Up Display, Dynamic Stability Control setting and the degree of assistance from the Servotronic steering system.
As the X5 M and the X6 M are true M cars they both feature the renowned Launch Control function for optimum acceleration from standstill available for use via the M Drive Manager function.
The BMW X5 M and X6 M both feature a suspension set-up of a double wishbone front and a four control arm integral rear arm suspension. This arrangement allows for the best configuration for on-road performance for this style of vehicle.
Compared to the BMW X5 and X6, the M versions have a 10mm lower ride height, feature stiffer springs for a sportier ride and come as standard with a revised version of Adaptive Drive.
As is befitting vehicles from a stable of performance engineers, the striking exterior design underscores the sporting potential of the car, while serving an aerodynamic function too.
There are a number of key M design traits.
The bespoke 20-inch light alloy wheels featuring differently sized tyres front to rear, M-badged side gills on the front wing, quad exhaust pipes and discreet badging are all M hallmarks.
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