X5 m (2010)
 

BMW confirmed the existence of its X5 M project late last year, and now the SUV’s official debut has come. Set to be introduced to the press this week at the New York Auto Show, this high-performance X5 will rival ML63 AMG.

BMW has put the high-performance ‘ute through extreme durability testing in the southwestern part of the United States, taking advantage of the hot temperatures, miles of desert roadways and mountains with steep grades.

Slightly more conventional than its X6 M sibling, the M offers the same utility as the regular X5, with the addition of a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 delivering 555 horsepower at 5,750 rpm and peak torque is 501 pound-feet, available between 1,500 and 5,650 rpm. The crossover can sprint from a standstill to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds, according to the automaker.

The X6 M and X5 M are the first xDrive all-wheel-drive vehicles from BMW to sport the “M” badge. Coupled with special “M” air suspension featuring Adaptive Drive and the newly developed Servotronic power steering, the performance ‘ute promises very competent handling. Other high-tech features include launch control for maximum acceleration and an “M” six-speed automatic optimized for performance. Drivers can manually select gears using either paddles or an an electronic gear selector lever.

Electronically controlled, variable power distribution to the front and rear axle prevents even the slightest tendency to over- or understeer right from the start, before DSC Dynamic Stability Control is even required to cut in.

BMW is referring to the new 4.4-liter motor as its “M TwinPower Turbo” unit. The name reflects the fact that the motor features Twin Scroll Twin Turbo Technology and a common exhaust manifold encompassing both rows of cylinders.

Although traction control is standard, the M Dynamic Mode (MDM) greatly reduces the aggressiveness of the system. The MDM setting allows the driver to enter a controlled drift and push the vehicle’s handling to the limit. There’s also a DSC-Off Mode for drivers seeking a more purist experience.

Some pics froom Car Pictures
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