By Mauricio Lezcano / carsntravel.com / Photos BMW Group
For 2015, the new BMW X5 M is setting the pace once again in the high-performance Sports Activity Vehicle segment. When the previous generation of the vehicle arrived in 2009, it was the first time the high-performance character distilled by BMW M GmbH had been transplanted into an all-wheel-drive BMW X model. The result was class-leading dynamics.
Exterior
The shared front-end design of the BMW X5 M is likewise a clear departure from that of the respective standard models and follows the classic form follows function maxim. The large air intakes and voluminous kidneys of the radiator grille, with the now customary M double-bar look, are mandated by the high cooling air requirements of the powerful engine, transmission and high-performance front brakes. Despite the large amount of cooling and more stringent pedestrian protection requirements, the designers have managed to integrate fog lamps into the front end of the vehicle.
The rear end also differs significantly from their standard siblings, exuding a stronger aura and majoring on bold, sporty accents. This approach is underlined in particular by the wide rear tires, the distinctive M rear aprons painted in body color and the hallmark M four-tailpipe exhaust. The diffuser element adapted from racing vehicles helps to ensure aerodynamically optimized airflow at the lower edge of the rear bumper moulding, allowing the new M model to highlight once again the impressive functionality of their design features.
2015 BMW X5 M
2015 BMW X5 M
Interior
Elegance and impressive functionality are also defining features of the interior of the new BMW X5 M. As well as the new M leather steering wheel with integrated aluminum gearshift paddles and M multi-function seats in Merino leather for the driver and front passenger, the M-specific standard equipment also includes a Nappa leather dashboard, an Alcantara anthracite roof liner, aluminum interior trim strips, door sill finishers with model lettering, knee pads on the center console and an M footrest for the driver.
In keeping with their high-performance pretensions, the new M model also come as standard with an M-specific instrument cluster complete with displays showing the gear selected, system status, M Drive mode and a compass, the M Drive menu in the information display and M-specific buttons on the M leather steering wheel. Over and above the information projected by the standard system, the optional Head-Up Display for the new BMW X5 M also features a special M display including a digital speed display, gear display, rev band and Shift Lights.
2015 BMW X5 M
Engine and Transmission
To say the newly developed engine of the new BMW X5 M has a pounding heartbeat would be something of an understatement. After all, the 4.4-liter V8 uses innovative M TwinPower Turbo technology consisting of cross-bank exhaust manifolds, a pair of TwinScroll turbochargers, High Precision Direct Injection and VALVETRONIC to push torque and output to higher levels.
The peak output of the new M turbocharged engine powering the BMW X5 M is at 567 hp, three percent higher than that of its predecessor and is available between 6,000 and 6,500 rpm. At the same time, the engine’s peak torque has been boosted by around 10 percent to 553 lb-ft, which can be enjoyed across an extremely broad rev band from 2,200 to 5,000 rpm. The power development of this M turbocharged engine allows the new M versions of the BMW X5 to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 4.0 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph.
The new BMW X5 M sends its engine power to the wheels via the newly developed eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic, which closely follows the operating philosophy of the M Double Clutch Transmission used by other M models. With its instantaneous responses, rapid gear changes and direct reaction to load changes, the torque converter automatic transmission links up seamlessly with the new higher-torque turbocharged engine and showcases its talents.
In addition the new eight-speed M Steptronic transmission allows drivers to sit back and enjoy automatic shifts or change gear manually using the gearshift paddles on the M leather steering wheel. And for the perfect getaway, the driver can activate the Launch Control system adapted from use in racing vehicles. Here, the driver keeps their foot on the brakes and pushes the accelerator down almost to the floor, which prompts the system to dial in the ideal getaway rpm. Releasing the brakes prompts Launch Control to let the vehicle off the leash, and it accelerates off the line with maximum propulsion.
2015 BMW X5 M
Summary
The new BMW X5 M combines the characteristic features of the successful BMW X family, exclusivity, robustness, agility and everyday usability with the commitment to high performance that defines an M vehicle. The latter is resoundingly highlighted by the vehicles’ impressive performance figures.
The 2015 BMW X5 M will be offered at a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of $98,700.00, the one I drove included the Driver Assistance Plus Package, Enhance B/T and SmartPhone IN and the Executive Package, and it came in at $106,595.00 including destination charge. The EPA fuel economy estimates 14 MPG City and 19 MPG Highway.
mlezcano@carsntravel.com
