The auto world is rapidly changing, and BMW is really upping its game so that it can keep up and outperform the competition. From initiating a wireless charging program and slowly introducing new electric models, BMW is striving to improve and change. Some of its projects such as the car-sharing program called ReachNow didn’t work out very well, but this hasn’t stopped the German automaker from branching out in new directions.

BMW is still an automaker first and foremost, however, and making great vehicles is what makes the German automaker one of the top luxury car makers in the world. The new BMW X5 M and X6 M are prime examples of BMW at its best.

Engine

So what makes the X5 M and X6 M so amazing? Let’s start with the engine.

According to Car and Driver, “The standard versions make 600 horsepower, while the Competition models add 17 horsepower to that.” This is a big improvement from previous models of the X5 and X6 Ms, which had 577 hp. That’s still impressive, but drivers will be pleased that BMW continues to raise the bar for itself.

Both models have a twin-turbo 4.4-liter V-8 engine with 6,000 rpm. Car and Driver was very impressed with the 553 lb-ft of torque present from 1,800 to 5,860 rpm that doesn’t require extreme revving. If you like the sound of an engine revving, it’s OK. You can still rev it. For those who are annoyed by engines that rev, you’ll be pleased to find that you can hit top speeds without having to shove the pedal down. 

Speed

One thing that most drivers want to know before purchasing a new vehicle is, “How fast can I go?” The answer is incredibly fast. The X5 M and the X6 M may not be the fastest vehicles on the road, but there are very few SUVs out there that can top the speeds that BMW has reached with these luxury SUVs. 

BMW reports that both SUVs can go from 0-to-60-mph time of 3.8 seconds for the 600-hp version. The Competition version can go from zero-to-60-mph in 3.7 seconds. The top speed reached is 155 mph. If you choose to spend some extra money for the M Driver’s package, the top speed is 177 mph. While you may prefer a car that can go over 200 mph, consider this: You can’t legally drive at those speeds, unless you’re a Formula 1 driver. A top speed of 177 mph is nothing to be laughed at, especially when it’s an SUV. Considering that many SUVs can’t top 100 mph, BMW has outdone itself.

If you get the M Driver package, BMW offers a driving course at one of its two driving schools. While you may be an excellent driver, you may pick up some great tips for taking your driving skills to the next level.

Pricing

Now that you know more about the X5 M and X6 M, the next question is, “How much does it cost?” Well, it’s not exactly cheap. According to Car and Driver, “BMW’s M division has rolled out the 2020 X5 M and X6 M SUVs, and you’ll pay for their greater performance: $106,095 for the X5 M and $109,595 for the X6 M.” 

Still, BMW is not known for its cheap prices. If you’re looking for a cheaper model SUV that’s reliable, there are many options out there. If you want a luxury SUV that has some great speed to it, then the X5 M and the X6 M may be exactly what you’re looking for.