You probably remember seeing the BMW X5 and X6 facelift (or, “LCI” models in BMW terms) just a couple of weeks ago. Now though, it’s time for the X5 M and X6 M models to get updated for 2023 and beyond. Base price in Germany for the 2023 X5 M Competition starts at €158,700, and if you’re interested in the 2023 X6 M Competition, you’ll need at least €164,150; both prices include a 19% VAT.
We’re looking at the new X5 M Competition in the photos above, and compared with the regular 2023 X5 we saw a few days ago, the M model has got a hexagonal-ish Kidney grille and a different bumper design at the front. At the rear, the diffuser-like insert houses dual circular tailpipes. Of course, all the chrome bits are replaced with dark elements here. Also, don’t miss those M-specific mirror caps (optionally available in carbon fibre). As standard, the model rides on a staggered setup of M light-alloy wheels measuring 21-inch at the front and 22-inch at the rear. Forged M light-alloy wheels in the same dimensions are now also available in Jet Black solid. Matrix LED headlights with adaptive control are included as standard, while the M Shadowline lights remain optional extra.
The new X6 M Competition also gets a very similar treatment as those of the new X5 M Competition. Unless you see these two models from the front-three-quarter angles, you probably wouldn’t be able to tell the difference. That subtle spoiler at the rear can be specified in carbon fibre, as are the mirror caps.
M Compound brakes with blue calipers come standard on both models; the calipers can be optionally painted in high-gloss red or high-gloss black. The M xDrive all-wheel-drive system and the Active M Differential also work in unison with near-actuator wheel slip limitation for the first time, which is claimed to ensure even swifter and more precise reactions to changes in the driving situation. This system apparently intervenes 10 times faster and with greater precision to prevent loss of traction.
Adaptive M suspension Professional with electronically controlled dampers and active roll stabilization are all part of the standard setup. BMW also said that the toe-in values at the rear axle have been modified to enhance poise at high speeds.
Inside, the new X5 M Competition and X6 M Competition spice things up with M multifunction seats; M leather steering wheel with new carbon gearshift paddles; carbon fibre decorative bits; standard BMW Live Cockpit Professional (12.3-inch driver display and a 14.9-inch central touchscreen); a head-up display; 2.5-zone automatic climate control; Harman Kardon Surround Sound System, and a few more. Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System, Travel & Comfort System, and Sky Lounge panoramic glass sunroof, are all optional extras.
Both models are powered by a 4.4-litre V8 biturbo petrol engine coupled with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. The mild-hybrid system electric motor is located inside the 8-speed gearbox housing and offers an additional boost of 9 kW (12 metric hp) and 200 Nm (147 lb-ft) when deemed necessary. The motor also functions as a crankshaft-mounted starter generator. The biturbo petrol motor pumps out 460 kW (625 metric hp) and 750 Nm (553 lb-ft). The official 0-100 km/h (62 mph) sprint time for both models is 3.9 seconds. The top speed is limited to 250 km/h (155 mph), but if you pay extra (Driver’s Package), BMW will increase it to 290 km/h (180 mph). As for the unladen weight, the new X5 M Competition weighs 2,400 kg (5,291 lbs) while the new X6 M Competition weighs 2,370 kg (5,225 lbs). But how come both models have the same 3.9-second sprint time? I’ve no idea.
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