The new BMW X5 M Competition and BMW X6 M Competition will be available in South Africa in Q3 2023. BMW M GmbH has enhanced these luxury Sports Activity Vehicles with performance, presence, and digitalization upgrades. Both models feature a new V8 engine with 48V technology, boasting 460 kW of maximum output. They also showcase exterior design updates and the latest iDrive control system with the BMW Curved Display and BMW Operating System 8.
The 48V technology is introduced in these high-performance models, with an electric motor integrated into the transmission that provides additional power and torque. This technology, combined with the revamped V8 engine, delivers exhilarating performance, with 0-100 km/h acceleration in 3.9 seconds.
The new eight-speed M Steptronic transmission offers three shift settings, and the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system with Active M Differential ensures precise power transfer. The chassis setup provides a perfect balance of dynamism and comfort.
The exterior design is bold, featuring matrix LED headlights, a blacked-out BMW kidney grille, and eye-catching details. Inside, the M cockpit with the BMW Curved Display is modern and exclusive, offering digital control for various functions.
Safety and convenience are enhanced with a wider range of driver assistance systems, including automated parking. The M-specific control concept and the BMW Operating System 8 add a new level of digital sophistication to these models.
The new BMW X5 M Competition and BMW X6 M Competition represent a significant step forward in terms of performance, technology, and design, making them highly appealing options in the luxury Sports Activity Vehicle segment.
Also worth a look: the BMW Glc and the BMW M3.
FAQ
Q: What does the new BMW X5 M Competition cost in South Africa?
BMW South Africa hasn't released official pricing yet, but expect the X5 M Competition to start around R2,800,000 when it launches in Q3 2023, considering the previous model started at R2,400,000 and this one packs significantly more tech and power.
Q: How fast is the new BMW X6 M Competition 0-100 km/h time?
The new X6 M Competition rockets from 0-100 km/h in just 3.9 seconds thanks to its 460 kW V8 engine with 48V technology and electric motor assistance.
Q: Is the BMW X5 M Competition worth buying over the X6 M Competition?
Both models share identical 460 kW powertrains and tech, so it comes down to practicality versus style, with the X5 M Competition offering better rear headroom and boot space while the X6 M Competition delivers a more aggressive coupe-SUV look.
Q: What's new about the 48V technology in these BMW M models?
The 48V system integrates an electric motor into the transmission that provides extra power and torque assistance, making the V8 engine more responsive while improving fuel efficiency during lighter driving conditions.
Q: When will the new BMW X5 M and X6 M Competition be available in South Africa?
BMW South Africa confirmed both models will arrive in Q3 2023, which means you can expect them in showrooms between July and September 2023.
Should You Buy It?
If you've got around R2,800,000 burning a hole in your pocket and want the fastest, most technologically advanced luxury SUV BMW has ever built, then absolutely yes. The new X5 M Competition and X6 M Competition deliver supercar performance with 460 kW of fury, cutting-edge 48V hybrid tech, and enough luxury to make your morning commute feel like a spa day. However, at nearly R3 million once you add a few options, these aren't exactly sensible family haulers. For most South Africans, the regular X5 or X6 40i models at around R1,500,000 offer 90% of the luxury with half the running costs. But if you want to be among the first to experience BMW's most advanced SUV tech and have the budget to match, the X5 M Competition is the better buy thanks to its superior practicality over the style-focused X6 M Competition.
FAQ
Q: What does the new BMW X5 M Competition cost in South Africa?
BMW South Africa hasn't released official pricing yet, but expect the X5 M Competition to start around R2,800,000 when it launches in Q3 2023, considering the previous model's pricing and these substantial upgrades.
Q: How much does the BMW X6 M Competition cost compared to the X5 M Competition?
The X6 M Competition typically costs about R50,000 to R100,000 more than the X5 M Competition due to its sportier coupe styling, so expect pricing around R2,850,000 to R2,900,000 in South Africa.
Q: Is the BMW X5 M Competition worth buying over the regular X5?
If you want proper supercar performance in an SUV body with 460 kW and 0-100 kph in 3.9 seconds, then absolutely, but you'll pay roughly R1,500,000 more than a loaded regular X5 for the privilege.
Q: What are the main competitors to the new BMW X5 M Competition in South Africa?
The X5 M Competition goes head-to-head with the Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S, Audi RS Q8, and Porsche Cayenne Turbo, all priced between R2,500,000 and R3,200,000 in the South African market.
Q: When exactly will the new BMW X5 M and X6 M Competition be available in South Africa?
BMW confirms Q3 2023 availability, which means you can expect to see them in showrooms between July and September 2023, with deliveries likely starting in August or September.
Should You Buy It?
The best high-performance luxury SUV under R3,000,000 in South Africa is definitely the new BMW X5 M Competition at an expected R2,800,000. With 460 kW from its new 48V-assisted V8 engine and 0-100 kph in just 3.9 seconds, this thing will embarrass most sports cars while still hauling the kids to school. The X6 M Competition at around R2,850,000 offers the same mental performance in a sleeker coupe body if you prioritise style over practicality. Yes, nearly R3 million is serious money, but you're getting supercar performance, luxury SUV practicality, and BMW's latest tech in one package. If your budget stretches this far and you want the ultimate performance SUV, buy it without hesitation.
