NEW YORK — The BMW X5 M and X6 M, which will debut next week at the 2009 New York Auto Show, are the first all-wheel-drive models from the German firm to bear the imprint of the company's vaunted M division.
The X5 M and X6 M are powered by BMW's new twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 M engine, which makes 555 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque. The vehicles also get a six-speed M Sports automatic transmission with shift paddles and manual shift mode, as well as a Launch Control feature. The company says both models can dash from zero to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds.
The M models feature a beefed-up M suspension, including self-leveling rear air suspension and Adaptive Drive with Electronic Damping Control and Active Roll Stabilization, as well as an improved Servotronic variable-assist power steering. The M division also has tuned such systems as xDrive, Dynamic Performance Control and Dynamic Stability Control, adding its own M Dynamic Mode for optimal handling and ride control.
The M vehicles get unique styling cues, including a unique front-end treatment with large air intakes and front airdam, as well as gills in the front fenders, side skirts and a rear diffuser that shrouds quad exhaust pipes. The X5 M and X6 M also feature specific 20-inch alloy wheels with run-flat tires — 275/40R20 in front and 315/35R20 in the rear.
The X5 M and X6 M come with a unique M cockpit and instrument cluster, as well as power heated front M sport seats, an M sport leather steering wheel, M door sills and driver's foot rest.
High-tech gadgetry abounds. Among the standard fare are navigation with real-time traffic data, dynamic cruise control, park distance control and adaptive headlamps. Customers also can order a Driver Assistance Package that bundles high-beam assistant, head-up display and a rearview camera with a new "top view" feature.
Inside Line says: You didn't really think BMW M could leave its hands off these utes, did you? — Paul Lienert, Correspondent
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