BMW X5 M and X6 M Competition Revealed

BMW X5 M and X6 M Competition Revealed

German manufacturer BMW has lifted the covers off the third-generation X5 M Competition SUV and X6 M Competition Coupe-SUV. Both models will be making their global debut at the 2019 LA Motor Show in November, with the first deliveries taking place in April 2020. Just like the BMW M8 and the BMW X3M, South Africa will most likely only be receiving the Competition models. 

Both models will make use of BMW’s twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 which has been boosted to produce a maximum of 460kW of power and 750Nm of torque. This enables the X5 M and X6 M Competition to boast acceleration times of 0-100km/h in 3.8-seconds and from 0-200km/h in 13.4-seconds on the X5 M and 13.2-seconds on the X6 M. The top speed is electronically limited to 250km/h but can be increased to 289km/h with the optional Drivers Package. An 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel xDrive is standard across both models. 

Aside from power upgrades, the SUV’s also feature an Active M Differential to deliver power on any terrain. If you’re not interested in playing in the sand, you can throw the SUV’s around a track. The rear-biased all-wheel drive system guarantees some sideways action and the adaptive suspension with electronic dampers and active roll stabilization should keep them pretty stable through corners. The brakes have also been upgraded and feature a setting where the driver can configure the feel of the brake pedal to suit their driving needs. The cherry on top is the M Sport exhaust which is fitted as standard on the Competition models. 

The design of the BMW X5 M and X6 M Competition follow suit with previous Competition models like the new BMW M8 Competition, with blacked out kidney grilles, larger air intakes, a sporty rear spoiler and a diffuser that houses the four exhausts. The Competition models also receive lightweight M alloy wheels, with 21-inch wheels up front and 22-inch wheels at the back. The interior receives M Performance seats, BMW’s latest version of iDrive, a digital instrument cluster and the new, fully customisable M buttons. 

Also worth a look: the BMW Glc and the BMW M3.

FAQ

Q: What does the BMW X5 M Competition cost in South Africa?

The BMW X5 M Competition starts from around R2,200,000 in South Africa, making it one of the pricier performance SUVs on the market but you're getting 460kW of twin-turbo V8 madness for your money.

Q: Is the BMW X6 M Competition worth buying over the X5 M Competition?

The X6 M Competition is marginally faster to 200kph at 13.2 seconds versus 13.4 seconds, but you sacrifice rear headroom and boot space for that coupe styling, so unless you prioritise looks over practicality, the X5 M makes more sense.

Q: How fast is the BMW X5 M Competition compared to other performance SUVs?

With 0-100kph in just 3.8 seconds and a potential top speed of 289kph with the Driver's Package, the X5 M Competition matches the Porsche Cayenne Turbo and demolishes most other SUVs in a straight line.

Q: What are the main performance features of the BMW X5 M and X6 M Competition?

Both models pack a 460kW twin-turbo V8, Active M Differential, rear-biased xDrive all-wheel drive, adaptive suspension with electronic dampers, configurable brake feel, and a standard M Sport exhaust system.

Q: When will the BMW X5 M and X6 M Competition be available in South Africa?

First deliveries started in April 2020, and both Competition models are now available through BMW dealerships across South Africa, though waiting times can stretch several months due to high demand.

Should You Buy It?

The BMW X5 M Competition is absolutely worth buying if you have around R2,200,000 to spend on a performance SUV that can haul the family and embarrass sports cars at the traffic lights. With 460kW on tap, 0-100kph in 3.8 seconds, and genuine track capability thanks to the adaptive suspension and rear-biased xDrive system, it's the best high-performance family hauler under R2,500,000 in South Africa. The X6 M Competition costs similar money but offers less practicality, so unless you're obsessed with that coupe silhouette, stick with the X5 M. Just budget extra for fuel because that twin-turbo V8 drinks like a sailor on shore leave.