The Mighty M: BMW launches the BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M in India

Chennai: The ultra-high performance sports activity vehicle BMW X5 M and the sports activity coupé BMW X6 M have been launched in India at a price of INR 1.55* crore and INR 1.60* crore respectively. The M badge is the coveted insignia for BMW’s performance range and as Philipp von Sahr, President, BMW Group India says, “driving an M car is the fastest escape from the ordinary”. We would agree.

The two new vehicles raise the bar for high-performance sports cars in terms of design, performance and efficiency; combining agility and powerful acceleration with everyday usability and off-roading characteristics. Both the vehicles would be available at BMW dealerships as Completely Built-Up units in seven metallic paint works – Carbon Black, Silverstone, Black Sapphire, Melbourne Red, Mineral White, Long Beach Blue, Donington Grey and in non-metallic Alpine White color.

The design characteristics of the BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M emphasise a sporty driving experience with the double slat kidney grille, large three-part air inlet in the front apron and M twin tailpipes. While the proportions of the X5 M signal massive power and extreme handling abilities, the X6 M is about flowing lines that underline a dynamic coupe style and athleticism.

The interior has a race car like feel with the new multifunctional M leather steering with integrated aluminium gearshift paddles, leather-trimmed BMW individual instrument panel, centre console with knee pads, M-specific gear selector lever, driving dynamics buttons and sill finishers with model lettering as standard offerings. The leather upholstery is in fine grain Merino with contrasting seams, and has the M logo embossed on the backrests.

The M TwinPower Turbocharged V8 petrol engine is responsive and agile with efficient power delivery at any speed. An output of 423 kW/ 575 hp produces a maximum torque of 750 Nm at 2200-5000 rpm and accelerates the cars from 0-100 km/ hr in just 4.2 seconds, with an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h.

The eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic is precise and collaborates perfectly with the engine to develop its full power and efficiency. For more control, gear changes can also be done manually using the shift paddles.

The BMW xDrive four-wheel drive system adapts well to road surface conditions, with split-second response time distributing drive power flexibly between the two axles for optimum grip.

Safety features include eight airbags, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Hill Descent Control (HDC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Active Protection with Alertness Assistant, Side-Impact protection, Electronic vehicle immobilizer and crash sensors.

With EfficientDynamics, the X5 M and X6 M balance the performance-to-fuel consumption ratio rather well. A comprehensive technology package includes Intelligent Lightweight Construction, Automatic Start/Stop function, Brake Energy Regeneration, Electric Power Steering, 50:50 Weight Distribution and more. The range of M specific BMW ConnectedDrive features numerous optional driver assistance systems, pioneering infotainment and unique connectivity. Systems such as the iDrive Touch with handwriting recognition (including a 25.9 cm high-definition colour display), full-colour BMW Head-Up Display with M View, 600 Watt 16 speaker high-end Surround Sound system from Harman Kardon and BMW apps reflect a high-level of sophisticated technology standards.

*Price are ex-showroom (inclusive of VAT @ 12.5%) as applicable in New Delhi and Maharashtra but excludes Road Tax, RTO statutory taxes/fees, Insurance and Octroi (if applicable).