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M-Powered X5 And X6 Unleashed! April 7, 2009 ) The fire-breathing twin-turbo V8-powered X5 M and X6 M. Click on images for larger views.
Well, take a look at the monsters on this page! The fire-breathing X5 M and X6 M are equipped with a newly developed twin-turbo V8 pumping out a stout 555 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque, a specially calibrated sport suspension, plus other performance hardware that make these big vehicles go blisteringly fast yet with exceptional poise considering their size. The X5 sport-utility and X6 crossover are the first all-wheel-drive BMWs to receive the M treatment. Both tear off zero-to-60-MPH in a scant 4.5 seconds — simply outstanding considering their hefty weight. Several technologies are at play under the hood, engineered for maximum performance as well as maximum efficiency. The V8 has direct injection, twin- scroll twin turbochargers and patented exhaust-manifold tuning for very little turbo lag and strong linear power. Power is routed through a six-speed M transmission that can be shifted with aluminum paddles on the steering wheel. A special and very cool launch-control feature allows the driver to practice his own zero-to-60 times. Dynamic Performance Control was first introduced on the standard-issue X6 and is now at work in both the X5 M and X6 M. It enhances stability in corners by transferring torque between the left and right wheels — in not only throttle-on but also throttle-off situations. Tap the M button on the steering wheel to extract the full potential out of these vehicles, raising stability-control thresholds and shifting to a more rear-bias drive layout. The braking system features four-piston fixed calipers up front and floating calipers at the rear, with big disc sizes of 15.6 and 15.2 inches, respectively. ) Quad tailpipes flank the X5 M's central air diffuser, all usual M hardware.
There's little trouble identifying the X5 and X6 M in the rearview mirror — the massive air intakes look ready to gobble up everything and anything on the road. Other signature M styling includes gills on the front fenders, huge 20-inch double-spoke alloy wheels wrapped with equally large rubber, plus a diffuser and quad exhaust pipes at the rear. For a more cohesive and sporting look, side skirts and trim around the fenders are body color. M carries into the interior with specific function displays, a variable redline, white backlighting, special sport seats and steering wheel, door sills and more. Porsche has proved with the Cayenne SUV that there is indeed a market for these all-out-performance behemoths. Now BMW wants a piece of this pie. Check out Ultimate Driving Report's full photo galleries below. Also see: X5 M And X6 M Pricing Announced, X5 M Photos, X6 M Photos
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