2009 New York Auto Show


The latest models to wear BMW's high-performance M badge made their debuts at the 2009 New York Auto Show. A new M6? Perhaps an M7 based on the recently redesigned 2009 7-Series? Nope. The M moniker gets placed on the brand's two midsize SUVs, the X5 and X6.

2010 BMW X5 M and X6 M
The 2010 X5 M and X6 M represent the first time BMW's M badge has been applied to an all-wheel-drive vehicle. Both models feature a high-output version of the company's 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine. What produces 400 horsepower in the X6 xDrive50i and 750i makes 555 horsepower in the X5 M and X6 M. A beefed-up 6-speed automatic transmission with steering-wheel shift paddles is standard. The company claims 0-60 mph acceleration takes 4.5 seconds.

Each model also has a "Launch Control" feature designed for maximum acceleration. The driver puts the transmission in manual mode, and with his or her foot on the brake pedal, presses the gas to at least 60 percent throttle. A notification on the dashboard then indicates Launch Control is ready, then the driver releases the brake and the vehicle takes off with maximum power.

2009 New York Auto Show

Also standard is BMW's Dynamic Performance Control, which works with the AWD system to distribute torque among the individual wheels in order to maximize grip. Included with the X5 M and X6 M is M Dynamic Mode, which activates the standard antiskid system only at the upper limits of the vehicle's grip. Expert drivers can also completely disable the antiskid system.

A driver-adjustable sport suspension includes a Sport mode, which adjusts the shock absorbers and dampers for high-performance driving. Alloy wheels on 20-inch tires are standard on both models.

Inside, heated sport bucket seats are standard, along with a navigation system, 12-speaker audio system, adaptive cruise control, head-up display, rearview camera, and a new "Top View" surround camera.

The BMW X5 M and X6 M will be available later this year. Pricing was not announced, but these vehicles should come in at a much higher retail price than loaded versions of the non-M X5 (xDrive48i) or X6 (xDrive50i).

CG Says...
Huh?

BMW should have resisted the temptation to follow in the footsteps of Mercedes-Benz (M63 AMG) and Porsche (Cayenne Turbo S). A 555-horsepower turbocharged V8 would be awesome for a new-generation M5 or M6, but for a pair of 5,000-plus-pound SUVs? Are a few incremental sales in a slumping market worth the risk of flushing away 20-plus years of M brand equity? Though they might express approval, deep down, even the most die-hard BMW fanatics have to be scratching their heads at this one. We sure are.

For more information on hundreds of new cars of today and tomorrow, check out: