BMW launches X5 M and X6 M in India

Extending its SUV offerings in India with high performance models from the M range, BMW India launched the all-new X5 M and X6 M in Chennai on October 15. Both the cars will be available as CBUs (Completely Built-Up) units. While the X5 M is priced at Rs 1.5 crore, the  X6 M costs Rs 1.6 crore (ex-showroom India).

During the current year the company has launched 14 models in India, with another one to follow. While unveiling the car, Philipp von Sahr, president, BMW Group India said, “Inspired by motorsport, M is one of the most coveted badges of all and has shaped the history of performance automobiles. With the all-new X5 M and the all-new X6 M, we are raising the bar for high-performance sports cars with highly emotive design, increased output and outstanding efficiency.”

He added that both cars will have very a positive impact on BMW’s brand strength in India. Without sharing numbers he said, the current year has been outstanding for the company with an excellent customer response customer and expects the growth to continue next year.

Commenting on the increasing localisation of its cars, he said all the suppliers have started delivering top quality products. “This works very well for us, allowing us to offer faster and flexible offerings as we don’t have to wait for parts to come from abroad.” 

Powering both the large luxury performance SUVs is a powered-up version of the 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 seen on the M5 pumping out 567bhp and 76.5kgm of torque. The power is sent to all four wheels, via an eight-speed automatic gearbox. The suspension on the standard models makes way for BMW M adjustable dampers and air suspension.

On the style front, the X5 M and X6 M get new bumpers with larger air intakes, painted wheel arch flares, revised front fenders, chunkier door sills and a revised rear bumper with quad exhausts.
Both cars get 20-inch alloy wheels to further set them apart from the standard SUVs. 

Inside, the SUVs get BMW M steering with paddle shifters, iDrive infotainment system and sport seats. In terms of safety, both SUVs come equipped with features such as eight airbags, Hill Descent Control, ABS, Corner Brake Control and Stability Control to name a few.

The BMW X5 M and X6 M rival the likes of the Porsche Cayenne Turbo S.