The BMW X5 M and X6 M were teased in a video last week that poked fun at spy photographers but have now been officially revealed along with power details. The pair of beastly M models have also been caked with aggressive body parts and a lower, more purposeful stance. The pair are set to be launched at the LA motor show next month (November 2014).

X5 M and X6 M Details

Exterior design modifications to the X models include large air intakes at the front end, side gills with a model badge and air breathers, signature M exterior mirrors in twin-stalk style, a typically M four-tailpipe exhaust system and a rear spoiler (for the BMW X6 M) give them a standalone look M fans will immediately recognize. Those wheels are 21-inches of lightweight M specific design as well.

Performance meets Luxury inside

The M instrument cluster, M leather steering wheel with aluminium gearshift paddles, an M driver’s footrest and the optional head-up display are all unique touches to the beasties. In addition to the standard information on the head-up display, it also includes an M-specific display with gear indicator, rev counterand gear shift lights.

Big Numbers

We were expecting power to be around 412 kW but BMW exceeded our expectations by delivering the X5 M and X6 M with 423 kW and a whopping 750 Nm of torque from the 4.4-Litre twin-turbo V8. That shunts the pair of X fighters to 100kph in a miraculous 4.2 seconds before they top out at a limited 250kph. The gearbox has also been changed from the previous models and now features BMW’s eight-speed M Steptronic transmission. The gear shifts are more rapid and the extra two gears in the ‘box improve fuel economy.

Handling remains a key focus of the crew at BMW M and the X5 M and X6 M have a special version of the X Drive all-wheel drive system. The system can send 100 percent of the drive to either the front wheels or rear wheels depending on the situation. This ensures the best possible traction at all times and on all surfaces. In regular driving situation the X5 M and X6 M have a rear drive bias however.

Coming to SA soon

We got word this morning from BMW SA’s communication manager Edward Makwana that the X5 M and X6 M are to be available in SA from April 2015.