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BMW X5 M Competition: A high-performance winner all around

If you are looking for the perfect combo of power, high performance, luxury, and prestige, BMW's updated 2024 X5 M Competition midsize SUV covers all the bases -- and then some. Boasting a new 617-hp 4.4-L M TwinPower Turbo V8 engine paired with an electric motor for extra umph, owners will be cruising in style in an updated cabin with lots of nifty tech tweaks.

The X5 M Competition (and its sedan counterpart the X6 M Competition) are the brand's first high-performance models to feature 48-V technology. An electric motor integrated in the compact housing of the eight-speed M Steptronic transmission delivers up to 9 kW/12 hp of additional drive power and 200 Nm (147 lb-ft) of torque, while also functioning as a crankshaft-mounted starter generator. The energy required for this is supplied by a 48-V battery housed in the engine compartment. The battery is charged through highly efficient adaptive recuperation under braking and on the overrun.

The 48-V tech joins forces with the new M TwinPower Turbo V8 engine. As well as its cross-bank exhaust manifold, the engine now also features a reinforced crankshaft drive, further developed turbocharging, a new air intake duct, and an optimized oil supply system and oil separation process. It delivers peak torque of 750 Nm (553 lb-ft) between 1,800 and 5,800 rpm. Drivers can go from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 3.9 sec. The standard M Sport exhaust system with electrically controlled flaps adds an exhilarating drive sound.

The eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic offers a choice of three shift settings in both automated and manual mode. New features include a retuned setup and a sharper shift action. A newly adapted version of the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system teams up with the Active M Differential at the rear axle. The M Setup menu lets the driver switch from the default 4WD setting to 4WD Sport mode, which makes it possible to execute controlled drifts by splitting power with a distinct rear-wheel bias.

The body structure and chassis mountings have an exceptionally stiff design, ensuring the SUV handles with M's signature blend of dynamism, agility, and precision. The suspension and damping systems also enable the vehicle to offer an exceptional breadth of ability from out-and-out sportiness to long-distance comfort. Standard specification includes adaptive M suspension Professional featuring reworked electronically controlled dampers and active roll stabilization.

The X5 M Competition rides on 21-in. M light-alloy wheels at the front paired with 22-in. M light-alloy wheels at the rear. Forged M light-alloy wheels with the same dimensions are available as optional extras, such as a Jet Black solid finish. Stopping power is provided by 6-piston front M Compound Brakes with ventilated, drilled brake discs.

The exterior features a new front-end design and new matrix LED headlights with adaptive control and BMW Selective Beam non-dazzling high beam. In the rear, X-shaped fiber-optic light guide elements are new for the rear lights and brake lights. An M-specific rear spoiler and a new rear apron are also included.

On the safety side, more automated driving and parking systems are available. The standard front collision warning's range of functions has been extended so that it also reduces the risk of a collision with cyclists, pedestrians, and oncoming traffic when turning off a road. The Lane Departure Warning function has been upgraded with the addition of lane return with steering assistance. Available options now include automatic Speed Limit Assist, the exit warning function, Active Navigation, route speed control, traffic light recognition (not available in all markets), the Emergency Stop Assistant, and the Lane Change and Merging Assistant.

A new optional Parking Assistant Professional feature makes it possible to control automated parking maneuvers into and out of spaces, as well as other full maneuvers covering a distance of up to 200 m, using the My BMW App on an Apple iPhone.

Inside the SUV is where the updates are really noticeable, particularly the new BMW Curved Display, which gives the M-typical cockpit a modern and exclusive feel. A single glass surface incorporates both the 12.3-in. information display behind the steering wheel and a control display with a screen diagonal of 14.9 in. The control display's touchscreen enables digital control of numerous functions, resulting in a significant reduction in the number of buttons and controls.

Other new features include a broad interior trim strip in Fineline Black fine wood with high-gloss metal effect, the ambient light bar with effective backlighting and the addition of an M logo to its graphic, plus the M leather steering wheel with its new carbon gearshift paddles. Also to be found on the standard equipment list are M multifunction seats, knee pads, fine-grain Merino full leather trim, and the Harman Kardon Surround Sound System.

The Sky Lounge panoramic glass sunroof, the Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System, and a new Travel & Comfort System are just some of the optional extras available. A wide choice of model-specific BMW M Performance Parts from the Original BMW Accessories range are also available for the exterior and interior.

Pricing starts at $122,300.

Learn more at bmwusa.com/vehicles/m-models/x5-m/sports-activity-vehicle/overview.html.

Source: BMW

Published March 2023

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