The 2024 X5 M and X6 M cabins get upgrades, too, mainly revolving around the new curved-screen infotainment system.
Earlier in February, we saw the debut of the refreshed X5 and X6. Now, BMW is blessing us with the high-performance variants, the 2024 X5 M and X6 M. New for 2024 is a mild-hybrid V8 powertrain, and the fact that both SUVs will only be available as Competition variants from now on.
The mild-hybrid powertrain is the main upgrade over the pre-facelift models. Make no mistake, though, it won’t add power — the overall output is still the same at 617 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque. Still, the added 12 hp from the 48-volt electric motor eliminates the turbo lag of the 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8, making acceleration out of a corner more responsive.
And, honestly, that was all these SUVs needed — both need only 3.7 seconds to reach 60 mph and have a top speed of 177 mph (with the optional M Drivers Package). The 8-speed ZF automatic transmission is also a known quantity — it shifts very quickly, but it’s also smoother than a dual-clutch gearbox.
As for the visual upgrades, the 2024 X5 M Competition and X6 M Competition get the new BMW styling treatment with a more aggressive front end. Notably, the headlights are slightly thinner and look sharper, while the grille has horizontal slants.
However, BMW resisted the temptation to incorporate the grotesque dual-headlight design from the X7 or the beaver-teeth-like kidney grilles from the M3. The front end is still not very cohesive — the lower end of the bumper looks over-styled, and there is just too much gloss black upfront. Still, it’s better in our eyes than on other BMWs of late.
BMW has been much more successful in designing the rear end of their vehicles lately, and that shows in the X5 M and X6 M. Both SUVs feature a minimalistic yet muscular design at the back, with the X6 M having thinner taillights and overall more dynamic looks, but the X5 M featuring an overall more cohesive design.
BMW will offer new paint options for those who love metallic shades — Brooklyn Grey, Frozen Pure Grey, and Isle of Man Green. Of course, there’s also the option of choosing from 50 exclusive shades from BMW Individual.
The Bavarian automaker also brought the X5 M and X6 M interiors in line with its other models. Thus, both SUVs feature a massive curved screen with a 12.3-inch driver’s display and a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment.
Powering both displays is BMW’s latest iDrive 8 software, which brings many new features, but also forgoes physical switches in favor of on-screen buttons. As a result, the cabin looks more minimalistic, but good luck finding some basic features by scrolling through the menus while driving.
We can’t fault the design, though — BMW currently makes some of the best cabin environments. The standard carbon-fiber trim does the dashboard justice and works well with the sporty nature of the X5 M and X6 M. However, customers can opt for wooden options like Fineline Black and Silver Ash Root Open Pore wood. All models have a comforting light bar on the dashboard for a more luxurious ambiance, with a panoramic moonroof adding to the experience.
BMW sets the base price for the X5 M Competition at $123,295, while the X6 M Competition starts at $128,195. Both models are around $4,000 costlier than their previous editions, but arguably, the upgrades justify the price premium. Production will start in April, with sales starting soon after.
Gallery: 2024 BMW X5 M Competition & X6 M Competition
This content was originally published here.
