BMW X5 and X6 M Competition score MHEV powertrain
BY PETER BARNWELL
COMPLETE with flaring nostrils, BMW has unveiled and detailed its upgraded X5 and X6 M Competition SUVs, each with an M-enhanced 48-volt hybridised powertrain which promises an arm stretching 460kW of power at 6000rpm and 750Nm of torque between 1800-5800rpm.
The pair are the first BMW SUVs offered with this M-enhanced ‘mild’ hybrid (MHEV) system.
Though undoubtedly a handful in actual ‘competition’, the US-built X5 M Competition and X6 M Competition are priced from $241,900 and $247,900 plus on-road costs respectively, which is a $14,000 hike over the outgoing models.
Competitors include the Porsche Cayenne Platinum Edition 4.0 Turbo S E-Hybrid Coupe from $311,100 and possibly Range Rover Sport 4.4 P530 at $241 021 – though it isn’t a hybrid.
The BMW duo feature identical mild hybrid assistance to supplement the carryover 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged petrol V8 now sporting a crankshaft mounted electric motor. The compact electron eater adds 9kW of additional drive power and a handy 200Nm of torque and doubles up as a starter-generator.
According to BMW the arrangement contributes to stronger mid-range acceleration quoting an 80-120km/h time of 3.2 seconds in fourth gear.
Despite prodigious weight, the standard 0-100km/h sprint is listed at 3.9 seconds (+0.1sec) while v-max is set at 250km/h – or 290km/h with the optional M Driver’s package.
As before, power is delivered to all four wheels via BMW’s M xDrive all-wheel drive system and M Steptronic eight-speed automatic transmission, and for additional traction, both models continue to offer an Active M differential on the rear axle aided by adaptive damping and progressive steering as standard.
Like theX5 and X6 LCI (Life Cycle Impulse or mid-life makeover) announced last month, the BMW X5 and X6 M Competition feature a new and more imposing look that includes a black-themed grille and wider air vents in the front bumper.
These changes bring the pair inline stylistically with changes made elsewhere in the M car line-up.
Other cosmetic changes include slimmer Shadowline LED Matrix headlights, twin-dual M Sport exhaust outlets, forged staggered alloy wheels (21-inch front, 22-inch rear and available in three designs) and Competition badging.
The X6 M Competition adds a black lip spoiler and is available with a carbon-fibre spoiler and wing mirror caps.
Inside, the performance twins adopt BMW’s Curved Display screens measuring 12.3 inches for instrumentation and 14.9 inches (backed by the latest eighth generation operating system), carbon-fibre shift paddles, ambient lighting bar and M leather steering wheel. Merino leather upholstery is standard.
Bolstering comfort are the M multifunction seats – with heating, ventilation and massage function – and knee pads. Also standard is carbon-fibre garnishing, remote engine start, and a harman/kardon surround sound system.
To provide a more engaging drive feel, BMW says it has upgraded a wide selection of driver assistance technologies and self-parking systems, helping to reduce the risk of the vehicle colliding with pedestrians, cyclists and other vehicles.
In addition, Australian delivered vehicles will arrive as standard with BMW Drive Recorder and Theft Recorder technology.
Colour options extend to Alpine White (non-metallic), Mineral White, M Carbon Black, Black Sapphire, M Brooklyn Grey, M Marina Bay Blue, Toronto Red, M Isle of Man Green (metallic), and Individual Davit Grey ($2400) or Frozen Pure Grey ($5000).
Multiple interior hues are also available, including the optional dual-tone Ivory White/Atlas Grey combination ($1500).
BMW will offer bundled option packages which include the Comfort Package ($2800/$2100 on X5 and X6 respectively) and Indulgence Package ($9500/$9500) in addition to a raft of individual options and accessories.
Australian customer deliveries will commence from Q3 this year.
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