2009 BMW X6 M at the 2009 New York Auto Show

• Competes with: Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG, Porsche Cayenne Turbo
• Looks like: SUV’s size won’t be as big a concern to others on the road as its speed will be
• Drivetrain: 555-hp, 4.4-liter twin-turbo V-8 with six-speed automatic; all-wheel drive
• Hits dealerships: Late 2009

Have you ever wanted a BMW M performance model, but also thirsted for all-wheel-drive capabilities? Well, the company has heard your cries: BMW just announced two new M models, the X6 M and X5 M. Both are the first M models to feature BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system, and they claim a zero-to-60-mph time of 4.5 seconds.

The X6 was already geared to be a more performance-minded SUV than the X5; we tested both the base and V-8 models on a track, and were blown away at their composure. The M version is lowered 10 centimeters and gains much more power (555 hp used to be reserved for supercars), bigger brakes and the selectable M mode option we first tested on the M3 last year.

The two M models get similar design treatments, but they differ from each model’s non-M version with augmented  hoods, headlights, front fenders, larger front air dams and 20-inch alloy wheels.

They’re definitely more menacing-looking, that’s for sure.

What will all this performance cost? Considering the V-8 version of the X6 starts at $66,500, we’d guess the M would be at least an additional $10,000. The X6 hasn’t sold all that well since its first two months on sale. However, speed freaks in need of something unique that can handle foul weather better than a rear-wheel-drive sports car or sedan may be intrigued. Of course, BMW could also offer an all-wheel-drive M3.

More photos below.

Comments

what is the point of this? I notice that whenever the Germans come out with overpriced, high powered vehicles with poor fuel economy no one mentions the word "green". Let a Camaro or SUV roll out from an American brand and the first thing you here is "this seems like a strange time to be launching such a vehicle considering Americans desire for fuel efficient vehicles". Is a 555hp SUV a responsible vehicle for our times?

I'm with Original on this one. Maybe this would have been ok 3-4 years ago. But now, big misstep for BMW. They could have put the M engineers on improving their dismal reliability.

You’re absolutely right. Three things however:

1. No comparing an American Car to a BMW (apples and oranges). Appreciation for the powerful BMW came long ago. BMW’s are at the apex of the performance charts are expected to be luxurious expensive, and fast. These attributes make many car aficionados overlook the MPG factor. However such appreciation is not there for American sports cars. Too bad because there are some good American sports cars.
2. People who can afford the circa 77k entry price (which there are still plenty who can) will not worry about fuel economy.
Are these two things fair? NO! But hey! It is what it is.

3. BMW is working on the Green Thing.

I think 555 hp and awd for under $100K is actually quite amazing. And having driven the X6 on a track the thing handles. So as a supercar replacement it's pretty awesome. NOW, there's something to be said for the need for that and like I mentioned, the X6 has not sold well. It is definitely weird. Especially offering an X5 too.

Because so many people are looking for a frumpy, heavy, high center of gravity supercar replacement to drive on the track? This vehicle is a rolling blend of compromises. Can't wait to see what BMW dilutes their brand with next..oh yeah it's the X1 and whatever they end up calling that 5 series GT abomination they showed in Geneva.

"2. People who can afford the circa 77k entry price (which there are still plenty who can) will not worry about fuel economy."

That argument has been made many times in regards to large SUVs made by domestics. Those who insist they are out of touch with reality (the majority of folks on car related websites) say that is irrelevant. They say the "people" are demanding small, eco friendly cars and anything other than that is a sign that a car company doesn't get it.

MB and BMW routinely turn out overpowered gas guzzlers and the American media (and many fans) don't seem to mind. I mean the M3 is one of the most revered cars in the US and it gets a pathetic 14/20 in spite of a reasonable curb wieght of about 3600lbs. I don't know what is impressive about a compact car that gets 20mpg on the highway. Just imagine if the Camaro got that kind of mileage.

Ridiculous Feature: It's an X6, what else is there to say? :)

I live in northern Canada and am looking for an AWD sports car for myself now that my kids are starting to drive our other vehicles. These M SUVs are enticing but expensive- X5 M so I can drive around more kids? Or X6 M which is sportier?