Today it all gets real for hardcore BMW fans with the launch of what some might call a rocket ship to Nirvana in the form of the X6 M Competition and its sibling, the X5 M Competition.
These third-generation iterations of the high performance tall runners both host a high-revving 4,4-litre V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology, resulting in a power increase over their respective predecessors of 37 kW for both the BMW X5 M Competition and the BMW X6 M Competition. This sees both the BMW X5 M Competition and the BMW X6 M Competition boasting 460 kW of power (at 6 000 r/min) and a maximum torque of 750 Nm between 1 800 r/min – 5 600 r/min.
Both are mated to an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic and the M xDrive all‑wheel-drive system with rear-biased setup, which can be adjusted in 4WD / 4WD Sport modes. The M xDrive teams up with Active M Differential to optimise traction and dynamics.
In terms of get-up-and-go, there is nothing to choose from with both cars claimed to sprint from rest to 100 km/h in 3,8 seconds – up to 0,4 seconds faster than their predecessors.
M light-alloy wheels in 21‑inch format at the front axle and 22-inch at the rear are fitted as standard for both Competition models. Stopping power is provided by M compound, while the integrated braking system enables individual configuration of pedal feel under braking.
An extensive package of measures increases stiffness of the body structure and suspension mountings, aided by model-specific chassis technology with bespoke kinematic and elasto-kinematic properties.
An M-specific adaptive suspension with electronically controlled dampers, active roll stabilisation, M Servotronic steering and Dynamic Stability Control form part of the M Dynamic Mode.
The body design follows familiar SAV and SAC proportions and combine with signature M features, optimising cooling air supply and aerodynamics. Large air intakes, that signature BMW kidney grille with double bars, M gills on the front side panels, a roof/rear spoiler, rear apron with diffuser elements and an exhaust system with two sets of twin tailpipes complete the powerhouses.
A luxurious interior offers a raised seating position with a generous feeling of space, high degree of variability, M‑specific cockpit design and BMW Head-Up Display with M-specific readouts are fitted as standar
M multifunction seats and BMW Individual fine-grain Merino full leather trim are also standard offerings.
Setup buttons for direct access to the settings for the engine, dampers, steering, M xDrive and braking system are within easy reach. Two individually composed overall setups can be selected using M buttons on the steering wheel.
M Mode allows driver assistance system interventions, instrument cluster displays and Head-Up Display readouts to be configured individually.
Drivers are afforded the choice of ROAD, SPORT and TRACK settings. Standard specification includes BMW Live Cockpit Professional with navigation system and BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant and the Parking Assistant. A large selection of driver assistance systems and BMW Laser light are available as options.
Recommended Retail Price (incl. 15% VAT):
| Available model | X5 M Competition | X6 M Competition |
| 8-speed M Steptronic Automatic transmission with Drivelogic | R 2,605,900 | R 2,707,200 |
| CO2 tax | R 26,358.00 | R 26,220.00 |
| Retail price including CO2 tax | R 2,632,258.00 | R 2,733,420.00 |
