2020 BMW X6 M Competition

BMW M GmbH has unveiled the third generation of its high-performance executive Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) and Sports Activity Coupe (SAC) models. The allure of the new BMW X5 M and new BMW X6 M - and the BMW X5 M Competition and BMW X6 M Competition models set to be launched alongside them in April 2020 - resides not only in their flamboyant design and luxurious character, but most notably also in class-leading dynamism, agility and precision. At the heart of their sublime powertrain / chassis composition is the latest incarnation of the high-revving V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology developed by BMW M GmbH. The eight-cylinder unit boasts two turbochargers with indirect charge air cooling, a cross-bank exhaust manifold, direct petrol injection and VALVETRONIC variable valve timing, enabling it to deliver maximum output of 441 kW/600 hp in the BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M and 460 kW/625 hp in the Competition models. The 4.4-litre V8 works in tandem with an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic, a version of the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system specially tuned for these models and the Active M Differential, delivering superlative propulsive power over any terrain and revealing signature M performance combined with X model versatility. The new BMW X5 M and new BMW X6 M both accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.9 seconds and they reach 200 km/h (124 mph) in 13.7 and 13.5 seconds respectively. The new BMW X5 M Competition races to 100 km/h (62 mph) from rest in 3.8 seconds and to 200 km/h (124 mph) in 13.4 seconds. The new BMW X6 M Competition, meanwhile, stops the clock at 3.8 seconds and 13.2 seconds for the same two sprints. All models have an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph), which increases to 290 km/h (180 mph) if the optional M Driver's Package is selected.

Power delivery and sound production in characteristic M style

The high-revving V8 unit has been crafted in the M mould, as demonstrated by its instant response to the slightest movement of the accelerator, precisely controllable power delivery and linear wave of thrust into the upper echelons of the rev range under full throttle. The engine features a sleeve-free crankcase with a closed-deck construction and a forged crankshaft with extremely high torsional rigidity. Its pair of twin-scroll turbochargers are nestled in the "V" between the banks of cylinders. The use of a cross-bank exhaust manifold enhances the turbocharging system's responsiveness and efficiency. Merging the exhaust gas flows from two cylinders at a time means extremely steady transmission of the resultant energy to the turbine wheels. The improved flow rate of gas through the manifold has the additional effect of optimising the gas-exchange cycle in the combustion chambers. The engine's power build-up, efficiency and emissions performance all reap the benefits of the latest High Precision Injection direct petrol injection technology, which operates at a maximum pressure of 350 bar to ensure exceptionally fine atomisation of the fuel. The eight-cylinder unit generates peak torque of 750 Nm (553 lb-ft) between 1,800 and 5,600 rpm in the new BMW X5 M and new BMW X6 M, while the maximum output of 441 kW/600 hp arrives at 6,000 rpm. The rev ceiling is set at 7,200 rpm. The engine's high-revving character enjoys even greater prominence in the specially tuned performance characteristics of the engine fitted in the new BMW X5 M Competition and BMW X6 M Competition models. Here, peak torque remains on tap all the way up to 5,800 rpm, while maximum output - reached at 6,000 rpm - is an even higher 460 kW/625 hp. Both variants of the V8 have a bespoke mounting. The power unit's firm connection to the vehicle's structure results in remarkably instantaneous engine response and direct transmission of its power to the drivetrain. The engine mounting's stiff configuration also makes the car sharper on turnin while dampening the transmission of engine noise to the cabin.

Cooling and oil supply systems designed for track use

A sophisticated cooling system precision-tuned to the engine's specific design and output optimises temperature management in all load scenarios, from short journeys in urban traffic to demanding mountain drives and track use. The low-temperature circuit incorporates the indirect charge air coolers, while the high-temperature circuit - comprising the central cooler and a second remote one in the left-hand wheel arch, plus a mechanical water pump - supplies coolant to the engine blocks and the two turbochargers. An additional electric water pump allows turbocharger cooling to continue for a certain length of time once the engine has been switched off. Another cooler located in the right-hand wheel arch cools the engine oil and there is also a dedicated cooler for controlling the temperature of the transmission oil. The engine oil supply system has also been designed with the specific demands of track use in mind. Consequently, the oil sump includes a smaller front sump that steps in when extra capacity is needed. And an additional suction stage allows the map-controlled oil pump to draw lubricant as required. All of this ensures a reliable supply of oil at all times, even when subject to extreme rates of lateral and longitudinal acceleration.

Bespoke chassis technology and extremely stiff mountings deliver class-leading driving dynamics

The class-leading driving dynamics of the new BMW X5 M, new BMW X6 M and Competition models are partly down to the M-specific kinematic and elastokinematic properties of the front and rear axles, and the super-stiff mountings connecting the suspension to the body. The double-wishbone front axle employs twin-wall torque arm and control arm bearings together with a forged upper control arm. The extremely high camber values at the front wheels sharpen response to steering inputs and optimise lateral control when cornering. A bespoke shear panel fitted in the front axle area also helps deliver precision handling. The body's torsional stiffness receives a further boost from the M-specific bracing package at the front end of the new BMW X5 M, new BMW X6 M and Competition models, comprising diagonal struts that connect the front end to the spring strut towers, plus multi-piece tower-to-bulkhead struts complete with a model-specific bracket. The five-link rear axle on the new models likewise boasts bespoke elastokinematics. The bearings for the rear axle subframe and rear axle links display remarkably high rigidity, as does the camber arm with its enclosed design. Rigidity in the rear part of the body is increased further still by a group of components purpose developed for these four models. They include a strut for the rear structure with thrust arms in a specially conceived design and a transmission tunnel bridge that joins together above the exhaust pipework. The bespoke chassis tuning guarantees the linear build-up of lateral forces through bends for which BMW M models are famed. This results in precisely controllable handling regardless of the lateral acceleration in play.

Design

The shared racing focus of the BMW X5 M, BMW X5 M Competition, BMW X6 M and BMW X6 M Competition models is emphasised by their exterior design, which also adds striking flourishes that bring out the individual character of both the Sports Activity Vehicles and Sports Activity Coupes. Unmistakable visual pointers to the robust versatility provided by a BMW X model combine with clear references to their M performance qualities. The result is a highly extrovert appearance exuding supreme authority and unruffled poise. Inside the high-performance models, abundant space, top-class materials and build quality radiating precise craftsmanship create a luxurious ambience. The cabin's classy, modern styling is further enhanced by displays and controls in a distinctive M design, as well as other model-specific features that sharpen the focus on the ultra-sporty driving experience at hand.