X5 and X6 M Competition score MHEV powertrain

BMW has detailed its revised X5 and X6 M Competition this week, the duo being the first M-enhanced SUVs to offer a 48-volt hybridised powertrain which promises a neck-stretching 460kW of power at 6000rpm and 750Nm of torque between 1800-5800rpm.

The US-built BMW X5 M Competition and X6 M Competition are priced from $241,900 and $247,900 plus on-road costs respectively – $14,000 more than the outgoing models.

The duo’s mild hybrid arrangement supplements the carryover model’s 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged petrol V8 with a crankshaft mounted electric motor, adding 9kW of additional drive power and 200Nm of torque, while also serving as a starter-generator.

BMW says the arrangement contributes to stronger mid-range acceleration quoting an 80-120km/h time of 3.2 seconds in fourth gear. The standard 0-100km/h sprint is listed at 3.9 seconds (+0.1sec) while v-max is set at 250km/h – or 290km/h with the optional M Driver’s package.

Power is again delivered to all four wheels via BMW’s M xDrive all-wheel drive system and M Steptronic eight-speed automatic transmission, and both models continue to offer an Active M differential on the rear axle, adaptive damping and progressive steering as standard.

Like the X5 and X6 LCI announced earlier this month, the BMW X5 and X6 M Competition feature a new look that includes a black-themed grille and wider air vents in the front bumper. These changes bring the pair inline stylistically with changes made elsewhere in the M car line-up.

Other cosmetic changes include slimmer Shadowline LED Matrix headlights, twin-dual M Sport exhaust outlets, forged staggered alloy wheels (21-inch front, 22-inch rear and available in three designs) and Competition badging. The X6 M Competition adds a black lip spoiler and is available with a carbon-fibre spoiler and wing mirror caps.

Inside, and in addition to merino leather, the performance twins adopt BMW’s Curved Display screens measuring 12.3 inches for instrumentation and 14.9 inches (backed by the latest eighth generation operating system), carbon-fibre shift paddles, ambient lighting bar and M leather steering wheel.

M multifunction seats – with heating, ventilation and massage function – and knee pads are also standard, as is carbon-fibre garnishing, remote engine start, and a harman/kardon surround sound system.

BMW says it has also upgraded a wide selection of driver assistance technologies and self-parking systems, helping to reduce the risk of the vehicle colliding with pedestrians, cyclists and other vehicles.

In addition, Australian delivered vehicles will arrive as standard with BMW Drive Recorder and Theft Recorder technology.

Colour options extend to Alpine White (non-metallic), Mineral White, M Carbon Black, Black Sapphire, M Brooklyn Grey, M Marina Bay Blue, Toronto Red, M Isle of Man Green (metallic), and Individual Davit Grey ($2400) or Frozen Pure Grey ($5000).

Multiple interior hues are also available, including the optional dual-tone Ivory White/Atlas Grey combination ($1,500).

BMW will offer bundled option packages which include the Comfort Package ($2,800/$2,100 on X5 and X6 respectively) and Indulgence Package ($9,500/$9,500) in addition to a raft of individual options and accessories.

Australian customer deliveries will commence from Q3.

2023 BMW X5 M Competition and X6 M Competition pricing*:

*Pricing excludes on-road costs.