The BMW X5 xDrive40e is the first plug-in hybrid production car from the BMW core brand. It combines the versatility and luxurious ambience of the X5, along with the superb traction provided by the BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system, with BMW’s EfficientDynamics eDrive technology for outstanding efficiency.

The intelligently controlled interaction between the combustion engine and the electric drive, which together generate a total system output of 313hp, endows the BMW X5 xDrive40e with strong acceleration while simultaneously realising a substantial reduction in fuel consumption and emissions. It returns a combined fuel consumption of up to 85.6mpg, and a combined electricity consumption of 15.3kWh. CO2 emissions are just 77g/km.

The BMW X5 xDrive40e reaps the benefits of the technology and know-how transferred from BMW’s i brand, with exceptionally efficient performance as well as all-electric mobility with zero tailpipe emissions, as and when required.

The Hybrid Drivetrain: an advanced partnership
The drive system of the BMW X5 xDrive40e comprises a four-cylinder petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, and a synchronous electric motor integrated with the 8-speed Steptronic transmission. The lithium-ion high-voltage battery pack can be topped up with mains electricity from any standard domestic power socket, or more quickly from the BMW i Wallbox, as well as at public charging stations. The high-voltage battery, which also supplies power to the battery for the 12V electrical system via a voltage transformer, is housed underneath the luggage compartment floor, where it is well protected in the event of a crash. With a capacity of 500 – 1,720-litres, the luggage area is barely compromised compared with other X5s. The standard charging cable can also be stored in a hinged compartment under the luggage area floor.

Short, everyday journeys in urban areas can easily be completed with zero tailpipe emissions, while actual fuel consumption is reduced substantially when driving for distances of up to approximately 15 miles in urban traffic. Driving in this way equates to an equivalent 94.2mpg, setting a new benchmark for efficiency in its segment. On longer journeys, when both engine and motor need to be deployed, the powertrain keeps the fuel consumption and emissions figures far lower than in comparable models with similar power outputs. Assuming the high-voltage battery is fully charged, daily commutes of up to 37 miles can therefore be completed with a fuel consumption of no more than 43.5mpg, depending on driving style. What’s more, when the fuel tank is filled to its 85-litre capacity and the high-voltage battery pack is charged, the BMW X5 xDrive40e also boasts the X5’s customary long-distance capabilities for travelling on holiday, for example, when it still succeeds in keeping fuel consumption above 25.7mpg.

BMW TwinPower Turbo and BMW eDrive technologies
The 2.0-litre internal combustion petrol engine fitted in the BMW X5 xDrive40e has already won the coveted title of “International Engine of the Year” three times. It features a TwinScroll turbocharger, High Precision Injection, and VALVETRONIC variable valve timing and variable camshaft control on both the intake and exhaust sides (Double-VANOS). The most powerful four-cylinder petrol unit in the BMW Group’s engine portfolio is notable for its eager power delivery, delightfully free-revving performance and highly refined character. It generates a maximum power of 245hp and 350Nm of peak torque.

The electric motor has an output of 113hp, while its maximum torque of 250Nm is available instantly in typical electric drive fashion. This boosts the engine’s output for increased responsiveness with absolutely no delay when accelerating from stationary, as well as providing strong performance whenever a quick burst of speed is required. The BMW X5 xDrive40e completes the 0 to 62mph sprint in just 6.8 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 130mph. In all-electric drive mode, the vehicle is capable of a top speed of 75mph, again, electronically limited.

BMW xDrive permanent all-wheel drive even in all-electric mode
The combined power of the two drive units is deployed by an 8-speed Steptronic transmission and the BMW xDrive permanent all-wheel-drive system. Shift paddles on the steering wheel are an option; these enable the driver to swiftly make manual gear selections.

xDrive ensures superb traction in all weather and road surface conditions, together with excellent stability and increased agility during cornering. An electronically controlled multi-plate clutch provides the basis for fully variable distribution of the drive torque between the front and rear wheels. As it is linked to the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), the xDrive system is capable of acting in advance to counter vehicle understeer or oversteer, and to split the distribution of torque for the best handling balance. The current status of power distribution and traction can be viewed in the iDrive display.

Configuration via The Driving Experience Control switch and eDrive button
The eDrive button on the centre console lets drivers tailor the powertrain according to their own preferences and situation. When the vehicle is first started, the default AUTO eDrive setting is activated, with both engine and electric motor working efficiently together. The electric motor alone is used for setting off with normal power requirements, while the engine cuts in at around 44 mph or when the driver wishes to accelerate briskly. In this mode, the intelligent operating strategy determines the most efficient drive combination at all times and switches to it automatically. The driver can also switch to the all-electric drive mode setting MAX eDrive, whereupon the vehicle is powered solely by the electric motor. This mode is designed for comfortable driving with zero local emissions, and offers a maximum range of approximately 19 miles at a limited top speed of 75mph.

The third mode available is the SAVE Battery setting, which allows the driver to conserve or build up the high-voltage battery’s reserves for later on. When driving on the motorway, for instance, the state of charge can be kept constant or even boosted in order to use the high-voltage battery’s power for all-electric driving in urban areas later in the journey. In this way, the stored electrical energy can be selectively deployed exactly when required.

The BMW X5 xDrive40e also features as standard the Driving Experience Control switch, just like the conventionally powered model variants of the X5. This can be used to activate the vehicle set-up modes COMFORT, SPORT and ECO PRO, which each have the effect of altering the throttle mapping, the steering characteristics, the responses of the 8-speed Steptronic transmission, as well as the characteristics of the Dynamic Damper Control included as standard on the BMW X5 xDrive40e. The ECO PRO mode furthermore triggers efficiency-optimised control of electrically powered comfort functions, such as the air conditioning, seat heating and heated mirrors. Besides this, when travelling on the overrun at speeds between 0 – 100mph, the coasting function shuts off the engine, allowing the vehicle to glide along without burning any fuel. The modes selectable with the eDrive button and the Driving Experience Control switch can be combined freely with one another.

Instrument cluster and Control Display with hybrid-specific readouts
The BMW X5 xDrive40e features a black-panel instrument cluster which has had hybrid-specific functions added to its array of readouts. The drive readiness display positioned in the lower part of the engine rev counter switches from “OFF” to “READY” when the start/stop button is pressed. The high-voltage battery’s state of charge is visualised in the form of a battery symbol below the gear display. The Driving Experience Control switch setting is also indicated, as is the operating mode selected with the eDrive button. Depending on the selected drive mode, information on the vehicle’s electric and total range, current fuel or electricity consumption, recuperation of electrical energy in the high-voltage battery and the progress of vehicle charging can likewise all be shown in the instrument cluster.

Model-specific menu options and readouts are also available in the iDrive operating system’s Control Display. An energy flow display can be called up while on the move, illustrating in graphical form the interaction between combustion engine and electric motor as well as how energy is being fed to the high-voltage battery. Charging of the battery from the mains power supply can also be controlled from the iDrive menu. A timer function is available for this purpose, which can factor in a planned departure time as entered by the driver. In addition to this, preconditioning of both the interior and the battery can be programmed in the iDrive menu as well. Timer-controlled cooling or heating ensures a pleasant temperature inside the passenger compartment ready for the start of the journey, while the high-voltage battery can also be cooled so that it is in an optimum operating state at the time of departure. An electrically powered auxiliary heating and ventilation function is also part of the standard specification. It can either run on mains electricity during vehicle charging or be powered by the high-voltage battery if it has sufficient capacity.

Bespoke design elements and a comprehensive standard UK specification
Bespoke design touches on the exterior clearly identify the BMW X5 xDrive40e. The most noticeable feature is the charging connection for the high-voltage battery located in the left front wing. Blue light effects also appear here at the start of the charging process to indicate the flow of energy, while the exhaust system has a twin-tailpipe design with trapezoidal tips. Besides the model badge at the front of the vehicle’s flanks, the “eDrive” logo already familiar from the BMW i models graces the tailgate, roof rails, the doorsill strips with their blue background colour, and the centre console.

Apart from Dynamic Damper Control, the standard specification for the BMW X5 xDrive40e also includes self-levelling rear air suspension. The 2-zone automatic climate control that features as standard on all BMW X5 model variants is extended to include an auxiliary heating and ventilation system: this comprises of an electric instantaneous water heater and an electric refrigerant compressor which can precondition the car prior to driving. Other standard features include Xenon headlights, LED fog lights, an automatic tailgate, Dakota leather upholstery, heated front seats, and 40:20:40 split folding rear seats.

In addition to this, all of the optional extras from the BMW X5 range are available, with the exception of the third row of seats, the Adaptive Suspension Package Dynamic, Active Steering, the Multifunctional Instrument Display, comfort seats in the rear and the ski/snowboard bag. The Design Pure Experience or Design Pure Excellence packages available for the exterior and interior emphasise either the X5 xDrive40e’s robust, versatile nature or its exclusive, luxurious character. This model can also be ordered with the M Sport package and the bespoke features offered by BMW Individual.

The Navigation system Professional and DAB radio are another standard features. The cruise control system with braking function and the Driving Assistant, both likewise included as standard, is complemented by the wealth of BMW ConnectedDrive services, such as eDrive Services providing the driver with charging stations details, BMW Online Services and Real Time Traffic Information. There is also a whole host of options on offer, including: Driving Assistant Plus featuring Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function, Collision Warning with braking function and Traffic Jam Assistant, the BMW Head-Up Display, the BMW Night Vision system with pedestrian and animal recognition as well as Dynamic Light Spot, Lane Change Warning, Parking Assistant, rear view camera, Surround View and Speed Limit Info including No Passing Info display. It should be noted that all driver assistance systems are also available when driving in all-electric mode. The Adaptive LED Headlights, Comfort Access, as well as the full selection of 19- and 20-inch light-alloy wheels, are also available to order. The BMW X5 xDrive 40e comes as standard with 18-inch light-alloy wheels in double-spoke design.

Versatile charging options with pioneering products and services from BMW 360° ELECTRIC
The plug-in hybrid design of the BMW X5 xDrive40e provides the ideal basis for extensive use of the electric drive system for highly efficient mobility, even including urban driving with zero tailpipe emissions. Its high-voltage battery offers a gross energy capacity of 9.0 kilowatt hours (kWh) and can be topped up with energy from any domestic power socket; from a Wallbox that has been designed for higher currents, as well as at public charging stations.

When hooked up to a conventional domestic power socket the high-voltage battery can be fully recharged from flat in around 3 hours and 50 minutes. A tailor-made solution for safe, simple and extra-fast battery charging at home is available under the umbrella of BMW 360° ELECTRIC. The BMW i Wallbox Pure is capable of replenishing the high-voltage battery at a charging rate of 3.5 kW (16 A/230 V). As a result, it takes 2 hours and 45 minutes to fully recharge an empty battery pack. Charging progress can be checked on a graphic displayed in the vehicle’s instrument cluster or on a smartphone using the BMW Remote app. A second version, the BMW i Wallbox Pro, offers added convenience features. It’s equipped with a 7-inch colour monitor, whose user-friendly touchscreen indicates how vehicle charging is progressing as well as allowing customised settings to be made for load management and self-produced electricity. The data displayed on the monitor includes the quantity of energy supplied and information on preceding charge cycles.

Under the umbrella of BMW 360° ELECTRIC, customers are offered an all- embracing service concept covering everything from the supply and installation of the charging station to maintenance, advice and other services. There is also the ChargeNow service, comprising a ChargeNow card that grants straightforward access to partner charging stations and can also be used for convenient billing of the monthly energy costs. The ParkNow Longterm mobility service simplifies the task of finding a parking space in urban centres, and also helps with finding and booking a parking spot with access to charging facilities. Beyond this, the BMW 360° ELECTRIC portfolio also comprises maintenance, assistance and other customer services that have been specially tailored to this model.

Innovative new functions from BMW ConnectedDrive help to plan journeys in such a way that the vehicle drives on electric power alone, as much as possible, and at maximum efficiency at all times. The Navigation system Professional fitted as standard gives drivers the option of calculating a hybrid-specific ECO PRO route to an entered destination, which makes allowance for factors such as the traffic situation, the route profile and driving style. The intelligent energy management function utilises the available data on the route profile for all navigation-assisted journeys anyway, together with real-time traffic information. This forms the basis for anticipatory and efficiency-optimised powertrain control, that keeps fuel consumption as low as possible while making intensive use of electric mobility: for example, when nearing the journey’s destination. On a longer journey that goes through both rural and built-up areas, for instance, Brake Energy Regeneration can be employed and the engine’s load points deliberately raised at higher speeds to ensure there are sufficient power reserves for completing the urban sections in all-electric drive mode. What’s more, the locations of public charging stations are added to the selection of points of interest on the navigation map whenever route guidance is activated.

The BMW Remote app also comes in a hybrid-specific version for use on smartphones. It lets the driver retrieve information on the high-voltage battery’s state of charge, even when they are away from the vehicle, and also displays the location of public charging stations. An evaluation of efficiency over the course of the last journey completed can be viewed on the smartphone as well, along with the total distance driven purely on electric power and the amount of fuel saved by using mains electricity. The auxiliary heating and ventilation functions of the BMW X5 xDrive40e can similarly be activated remotely with the help of the BMW Remote app.

Production at the BMW Spartanburg plant: centre of excellence for BMW X models and hybrid technology
The BMW X5 xDrive40e is manufactured at the BMW Spartanburg plant in the US state of South Carolina. This is where all other model variants of the X5 are built, together with the BMW X6, BMW X3 and BMW X4 models. It has been over 15 years since the first-generation BMW X5 went into production, during which time this US plant has evolved into the global centre of excellence for BMW X models.

The BMW X5 xDrive40e is assembled in parallel with both the other model variants of the BMW X5 and the BMW X6 on a shared production line. Special assembly steps have been added to the manufacturing process for integrating the hybrid-specific components, and the high-voltage battery is also manufactured on-site.

The BMW X5 xDrive 40e goes on sale Autumn 2015. 

Ends

BMW, one of the world’s most successful premium carmakers, also boasts an excellent position in the all-wheel-drive market, a segment it first entered 30 years ago. Around one in three BMW cars sold around the world is now equipped with the intelligent BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive system. BMW’s success in this segment has been driven not only by the ever-popular BMW X models but also by all-wheel-drive models based on the other model series, from the BMW 1 Series to the BMW 7 Series. Across these model series, a large choice of AWD models is offered in a wide range of engine versions. At the same time, BMW continues to refine this technology and take it in new directions. By offering BMW xDrive in combination with a hybrid drive and with a front-wheel-drive platform, the company has repeatedly demonstrated its proficiency in the all-wheel-drive field, proficiency that will secure BMW’s position at the forefront of this sector well into the future. Today, BMW offers more than 110 models – of either transmission type – with BMW xDrive in 12 different model series, as well as the plug-in hybrid BMW i8 sports car and the compact BMW 225xe with electrified all-wheel drive.

The focus from day one: traction and dynamics.
BMW’s first foray into the all-wheel-drive market came with the unveiling of the BMW 325i “Allrad” at the Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA) in 1985. From the outside, the newcomer didn’t immediately reveal its inner qualities, so its performance when the journalists took it out on the test track was even more of an eye-opener. This very first BMW all-wheel-drive system not only improved traction away from surfaced roads and in adverse weather conditions, but also made for more dynamic handling through corners. “The new BMW is the new champion when it comes to handling,” was the verdict of the testers from German car magazine Auto Zeitung not long after the first unveiling.

Today, the intelligent BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive system takes typical BMW driving dynamics to new levels. The current generation of this system is controlled by the Integrated Chassis Management (ICM) system, which ensures that xDrive always responds appropriately at the earliest possible moment, based on reliable sensing and monitoring of the current driving situation. The interventions may be performed either entirely by BMW xDrive, or by xDrive in combination with Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) or Dynamic Performance Control (DPC). The resulting fast and precise control of drive power distribution ensures typical BMW handling characteristics even under extremely dynamic cornering.

The all-wheel-drive system is biased towards the typical BMW rear-wheel-drive characteristics. That is to say, on the all-wheel-drive models a greater share of the drive power is sent to the rear wheels, even under normal driving conditions. This maintains the typical BMW precise steering response, with virtually no torque steer. For crisp turn-in and high tracking stability, the latest-generation BMW xDrive system starts increasing the amount of power sent to the rear wheels as soon as the vehicle enters a corner, further enhancing the driving pleasure for which BMW is a byword.

BMW all-wheel-drive technology: continuous evolution since 1985.
The full-time all-wheel-drive system featured on the BMW 325i “Allrad” of 1985 split the drive power in a ratio of 37 to 63 per cent between the front and rear wheels. In response to wheel speed differences, visco locks in the transfer case and rear differential were capable of providing a virtually rigid connection between the front and rear wheels, in order to improve traction and stability. This model’s name was soon changed to BMW 325iX, and from 1988 it was offered in a “touring” version as well (lower-case spelling up to and including the E46 series).

1991: BMW 525iX.
Three years on, BMW introduced an all-wheel-drive model in the BMW 5 Series too. For the first time, the power split was now electronically controlled. The newly developed system featured multi-plate clutches that allowed the default 36:64 front-to-rear power split to be varied seamlessly and automatically in line with driving conditions. Initially a hydraulically controlled multi-plate clutch was used at the rear axle, but this was later replaced by electronically controlled selective braking intervention. The system monitored the driving situation using wheel speed signals from the Anti-lock Braking System, supplemented by further information about brake status, engine speed and throttle valve position.

From the outset the all-wheel-drive system of the BMW 525iX was a class apart. The electronic control system delivered a very fast and precise response, resulting in safe, neutral handling characteristics even in difficult driving conditions, such as on wet roads or snow. In the BMW 5 Series, too, the first all-wheel-drive models were offered in both Sedan and touring versions.

1999: The Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) opens a new chapter.
In the run-up to the new millennium, a highly innovative vehicle concept from BMW made its sensational debut. The BMW X5, the first Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV), impressed customers with driving dynamics that were unmatched among other all-terrain vehicles of the time. The outstanding all-wheel-drive system played a big part in this. A planetary gear system split the drive power in a ratio of 38:62 per cent between the front and rear wheels, while electronic control systems such as DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), ADB-X (Automatic Differential Brake) and HDC (Hill Descent Control) ensured the new BMW X5 was both sporty on the road and equipped to handle challenging conditions off the beaten track.

In the years following the successful launch of the SAV concept, there was no let-up in the fast pace of all-wheel-drive development at BMW. The next year, 2000, a model-specific version of the BMW X5’s all-wheel drive technology became available for the fourth generation of the BMW 3 Series.

2003: BMW xDrive makes its debut in the BMW X3 and BMW X5.
Four years on from the debut of the BMW X5 in 1999, BMW kept up the momentum by launching the SAV concept in a further vehicle segment. The new BMW X3 was more compact than the BMW X5 and offered even more agile handling. It set new benchmarks and remained the only premium model in its class for years to come.

The newly developed BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive system, which was introduced in the same year in both the BMW X3 and the BMW X5, soon extended BMW’s lead in the AWD segment. Based on an extremely fast-acting electronic multi-plate clutch in the transfer case, xDrive worked in tandem with the Dynamic Stability Control system (DSC) to continuously adapt the drive power split to the current driving situation. In addition to wheel speed, for the first time the electronic control system also took into account Dynamic Stability Control data, for example about steering angle, accelerator position and lateral acceleration. This is what makes BMW xDrive the world’s first, and still only, “intelligent” all-wheel-drive system. Unlike conventional all-wheel-drive systems, which only react when at least one wheel is already spinning, xDrive is able to detect a risk of oversteer or understeer at the very first signs, and proactively corrects this by redirecting the flow of drive power.

In the years that followed, the BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system was fitted not only on the X models but also on the xDrive versions of the BMW 3 and 5 Series Sedan and Touring models. By the time the second generation of the BMW X3 was introduced in 2010, more than 600,000 units of this series had already been sold worldwide. A little earlier, sales of the BMW X5 – which entered its second generation in 2006 – had topped the one million mark.

2008: SAC with Dynamic Performance Control and hybrid drive.
With the two Sports Activity Vehicles now firmly established in their respective segments, in 2007 BMW went on to present the world’s first Sports Activity Coupe. Unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA), the brand-new BMW X6 elevated the typical dynamic character of the BMW X models to a new level of intensity. For the first time, the intelligent all-wheel-drive system was combined with Dynamic Performance Control (DPC), which varies the drive power split between the rear wheels when cornering to ensure unrivalled agility and stability, even under sudden throttle changes or on overrun. In 2009, the BMW Active Hybrid X6 demonstrated a further perfect pairing – between BMW xDrive and hybrid propulsion. Meanwhile, in the same year, BMW M GmbH added two very special models to its range of high-performance sports cars. With an M-tuned BMW xDrive system, including Dynamic Performance Control, the BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M boasted performance that was previously unknown in the all-wheel-drive market.

2009 also saw the arrival of a new X model, the BMW X1. For many years to come, the BMW X1 was destined to remain the only vehicle of its kind in the premium compact segment. Its intelligent BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive system, like that of the new BMW X3 (2010), was also combinable with Performance Control. This system selectively brakes the wheel on the inside of a turn while simultaneously increasing engine power, resulting in quick and precise turn-in to corners and taking the agile handling of both models to new levels.

BMW xDrive also available for other model series.
The steady advance of the BMW X models has been accompanied by an increase in the number of xDrive versions offered in the other BMW model series too. Designed to improve cornering agility and precision, BMW xDrive provides an enhanced driving experience and an optimal combination of dynamics and comfort. So it was only a matter of time before this intelligent drive technology made its debut in the BMW 7 Series as well, in 2009. In spring 2012, the first all-wheel-drive Coupe and Convertible models were then offered in the sporty BMW 6 Series. BMW xDrive can also be specified on the current BMW 3 and 5 Series and, since 2013, on the Convertible, Coupe and Gran Coupe models of the new BMW 4 Series.

Driving progress ever forward.
BMW took things forward in the premium mid-sized segment with the launch of the BMW X4 in 2014. The new Sports Activity Coupe offers a unique blend of driving enjoyment, sophisticated style and contemporary practicality. It comes with BMW xDrive as standard and is available in a wide range of engine versions. In the same year, BMW also presented the third generation of the BMW X5, the second generation of the BMW X6, and M Sport versions of both models. BMW xDrive also made its debut in the new BMW 2 Series Active Tourer. This was a debut with a difference, being the first time BMW had combined its intelligent all-wheel-drive system with an all-new front-wheel-drive format.

With the BMW i8, unveiled in 2014, the BMW Group took a bold new step in new directions – which also extended to the all-wheel-drive system. This 2+2-seater sports model is powered by a highly advanced plug-in hybrid drive system that pairs an internal combustion engine driving the rear wheels with a high-performance electric motor driving the front wheels.

Focused on the future: BMW xDrive meets BMW eDrive.
BMW’s latest all-wheel-drive models bring technology advances that are firmly focused on the future of mobility. The BMW i8 was followed by the international launch of the first production plug-in hybrid model from the BMW core brand: the BMW X5 xDrive40e. Thanks to full-time BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive and eDrive BMW EfficientDynamics technology, this Sports Activity Vehicle mates thrilling and effortless sporty performance with outstanding efficiency. Intelligent hybrid power management synchronises the operation of the internal combustion engine and the electric motor to maximise efficiency at all times, while also responding perfectly to the driver’s demands. The drive from the two power units is transferred to the road via the full-time BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system.

BMW 7 Series: Integral Active Steering combinable with BMW xDrive.
In September 2015, the sixth generation of the BMW 7 Series makes its world debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA). This high-end BMW luxury model pioneers groundbreaking innovations on all fronts, and will be available with BMW xDrive from its market launch in October. The new luxury sedan will also be the first model to allow intelligent all-wheel-drive to be combined with Integral Active Steering – that is to say with passively steering rear wheels.

Please find attached the complete press kit for download.

The ultra-high performance with exceptional fuel efficiency that characterises every car from BMW’s sporty M division is once more fused with all-roads, all-weathers capability with the introduction of the second-generation X5 M and X6 M. Compared to the 2009 models which they succeed, they bring improvements of up to 10 per cent in power, torque and performance while lowering fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by over 20 per cent.

Both models are powered by a new 4.4-litre M TwinPower Turbo V8 engine with two TwinScroll turbochargers. With outputs of 575 hp and 750 Nm, it is the most powerful engine ever developed by BMW for four-wheel-drive vehicles. It is linked to a newly developed eight-speed M Steptronic automatic transmission now featuring Drivelogic. The cars’ outstanding driving dynamics benefit from specific tuning by BMW M, while their bespoke interior and exterior designs blend sportiness, luxury and functionality.

The new M TwinPower Turbo V8 engine: the best of all worlds

The bare figures for the new BMW 4.4-litre V8 engine in the X5 M and X6 M are impressive enough in themselves, but they tell only half the story. This new power unit develops its maximum 575 hp – four per cent more than the engine in the previous models – from 6,000 to 6,500 rpm, while peak torque of 750 Nm (a gain of 10 per cent) is available from 2,200 to 5,000 rpm. This combination of high-revving capability with linear, rapid response is thanks to the engine’s innovative M TwinPower Turbo technologies, which include cross-bank exhaust manifolds, two TwinScroll turbochargers, direct fuel injection working at a pressure of up to 200 bar and VALVETRONIC variable valve control.  

These technologies, in combination with the newly developed eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic, ensure performance more than meets the expectations of a car from BMW M while at the same time demonstrating exceptional fuel efficiency. The X5 M and X6 M accelerate from 0-62 mph in a supercar-equalling 4.2 seconds, but in normal road driving they are capable of 25.4 mpg, with CO2 emissions  of 258 g/km – reductions of over 20 per cent compared to the previous models.     

The cross-bank exhaust manifold sends two converged streams of exhaust gas to the TwinScroll turbochargers through four separate exhaust ducts. The engine features an extremely rigid closed-deck crankcase which permits the high fuel injection pressures necessary for it to achieve its impressive power output. A lightweight, torsionally stiff forged crankshaft with low rotating masses helps to sharpen the engine’s responses.  

Every model from BMW M has to be passed as ‘fit for the Nordschleife’. The extreme lateral and longitudinal acceleration put upon cars when lapping the Nurburgring places high demands on an engine’s oil supply, but sophisticated sump and suction snorkel geometry ensures that the X5 M and X6 M can generate up to 1.2 g without problems. Meanwhile, a combination of low- and high-temperature radiators ensures optimum cooling for the engine coolant, charge air and engine and transmission oil. Electronically controlled flaps within the exhaust system help to provide a riche sporty soundtrack.   

The eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic delivers all the advantages in terms of responsiveness of the M Double Clutch gearbox in other BMW M models, with the smoothness of a torque converter automatic. It also allows for a wider spread of gear ratios to foster greater fuel efficiency, and for the first time in a torque converter automatic it permits ‘creep on demand’ through the Low Speed Assistant system. The Drivelogic function allows the driver to prioritise fuel economy, comfort or sports performance, while gear changing can be fully automatic or driver-controlled via paddles on the steering wheel. A Launch Control function is fitted to permit perfect standing starts.

The xDrive four-wheel-drive system is fully flexible in the way it distributes torque to each axle, to ensure maximum traction on all roads and in all weathers. Normally the bias is towards the rear to give the X5 M and X6 M maximum agility, but when the occasion demands, 100 per cent of engine torque can be sent to either axle.

Sports Activity Vehicles with the emphasis on ‘sport’
BMW created the Sports Activity Vehicle sector with the original X5 and X6, and the new M models are once again the ultimate expression of the genre. They now deliver improved cornering force through revisions to the upper front wishbones, which have increased camber, camber progression and steering pivot axis, while directional stability has been increased thanks to revised elastokinematics with more rigid bearings. The X5 M and X6 M feature firmer suspension tuning than other X5 and X6 models, a 10 mm lower ride height, Dynamic Drive active roll stabilisation and self-levelling air suspension at the rear. Dynamic Performance Control with COMFORT, SPORT and SPORT+ modes allows the driver to personalise the suspension settings at the touch of a button.

Both models feature specially developed mixed tyres to ensure the maximum steering precision and feedback, traction and lateral and directional stability. They are fitted as standard with Pirelli P Zero tyres (285/40 R 20 Y at the front and 325/35 R 20 Y at the rear) on 20-inch light-alloy rims, but 21-inch wheels with Michelin Pilot Super Sport UHP tyres (285/35 R 21 Y front; 325/30 R 21 Y rear) are optionally available.

The steering is an electronically assisted rack and pinion M Servotronic system with M-specific gearing and tuning. Compared to a conventional hydraulic steering set-up, it reduces fuel consumption by 0.3 litres per 100 kilometres (62 miles). As with the suspension, drivers can opt for COMFORT, SPORT and SPORT+ settings. The high-performance brakes have been hones in motor sport and feature six-piston fixed callipers at the front, single-piston floating callipers at the rear and 50 per cent larger brake linings than those in the previous models. Weight has been reduced by 1.6 kg, helping to reduce unsprung masses. The brake callipers are painted in Dark Blue metallic.

The new four-wheel-drive M models now feature an optimised DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system which permits an even more dynamic driving style and includes the additional safety functions Brake Standby, Brake Drying, Fading Compensation and Start-Off Assistant. DSC now allows three driving modes – DSC on, in which case the electronic systems provide maximum help to maintain stability;  M Dynamic Mode (MDM), which allows some mild drifting before the electronics come to the driver’s assistance; and DSC off, which intervenes only in the most extreme circumstances.

Sportiness meets luxury in the function-led design
The exterior design of the new BMW X5 M and X6 M is purely function-led. The four large air intakes and flaps at the front and the diffuser at the rear perform essential cooling and aerodynamic functions, for example, and the same is true of the M-specific Air Breathers behind the front wheels, which reduce turbulence in the front wheel arches. Airflow around the cars is so well managed that both drag and lift are minimised.

From the front, the two cars are identical, but as they stretch backwards the X5 M demonstrates its sporting practicality and versatility while the X6 M has the flowing lines of a high-performance sports coupé. Both have the raised seating position typical of a BMW X model. The headlights with integrated washer system are borrowed from the BMW X6, while special flaps in the outer front air intakes – adapted from those on racing cars – reduce lift. Both cars have twin-stalk exterior door mirrors with integral indicators. At the rear, there are body-coloured M aprons and a distinctive four-tailpipe exhaust – another M hallmark. The X6 M has a spoiler to reduce rear-axle lift.

The interiors exude sporting luxury. There is an M leather steering wheel with gearshift paddles, an M gearshift lever, an M Drive menu in the information display and M Drive buttons on the steering wheel. The M front sports seats, like the rest of the upholstery, are trimmed in fine-grain Merino leather with contrast stitching, and there are embossed M logos. Door sill strips with model lettering, aluminium interior trim strips and an anthracite-coloured roof liner from BMW Individual add further touches of sporting exclusivity.

Standard features include Adaptive Dynamic suspension, Adaptive M suspension, Cruise Control with brake function, Driving Assistant, Dynamic Stability Control Plus (ABS, ASC, brake drying, brake fade compensation, brake pre-tensioning, Cornering Brake Contol, Dynamic Brake Control, Dynamic Traction Control, Electronic Brake-force Distribution and Hill-start Assistant), Hill Descent Control, front and rear Park Distance Control and a rain sensor with automatic headlight control.                               

There are 40:20:40 split folding rear seats, electric driver’s seat adjustment with memory, heated front seats, downlights in the exterior door handles, High-gloss Shadowline exterior trim (including the roof rails on the X5 M), metallic paint, a split tailgate with a powered upper section (for the X5 M), two-zone automatic air conditioning, front and rear cup holders and courtesy lights, all-round electric windows with comfort closing, velour floor mats, footwell lights (LED in the front), a leather-trimmed instrument panel, Aluminium Trace interior trim with Pearl Grey Chrome finishers, a retractable and removable luggage cover, four 12-volt power sockets, electric steering wheel adjustment, green window tinting and an engine start/stop button.

Infotainment is provided by the BMW Professional DAB radio with a single CD player. There is also a 20GB hard disc drive and a socket for connecting auxiliary devices. Both cars are also supplied with Enhanced Bluetooth featuring Voice Control, BMW ConnectedDrive services (Apps interface, Emergency Call, Online Services, TeleServices, Information Plus, Real Time Traffic Information and Remote Services), an M-specific Head- up Display, BMW Professional Multimedia Navigation and an On-Board Computer.

The BMW X5 M and X6 M arrive in dealerships on 11 April, 2015, and will be priced at £90,170 and £93,070 respectively.

Ends

The BMW Group

The BMW Group is one of the most successful manufacturers of automobiles and motorcycles in the world with its BMW, MINI, Husqvarna Motorcycles and Rolls-Royce brands. As a global company, the BMW Group operates 29 production and assembly facilities in 14 countries and has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2012, the BMW Group sold about 1.85 million cars and more than 117,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax for the financial year 2011 was euro 7.38 billion on revenues amounting to euro 68.82 billion. At 31 December 2011, the BMW Group had a workforce of approximately 100,000 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been built on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company has therefore established ecological and social sustainability throughout the value chain, comprehensive product responsibility and a clear commitment to conserving resources as an integral part of its strategy. As a result of its efforts, the BMW Group has been ranked industry leader in the Dow Jones Sustainability Indexes for the last eight years.

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