BMW has revealed facelifted versions of its X5 M Competition and X6 M Competition, with both V8-powered high-performance SUVs gaining mild-hybrid assistance…

The BMW M division has rolled out its first high-performance models featuring 48V technology, with the refreshed X5 M Competition and X6 M Competition going the mild-hybrid route.

Following hot on the heels of the likewise facelifted standard iterations of the G05-generation X5 and G06-generation X6, the full-fat M versions have been electrified, while also scoring design updates and fresh technology. Both versions are scheduled to arrive in South Africa from the 3rd quarter of 2023.

While the twin-turbo 4.4-litre V8 petrol engine’s peak outputs of 460 kW and 750 Nm are unchanged, the new electric motor integrated into the revised 8-speed M Steptronic transmission delivers up to 9 kW and 200 Nm of additional power and torque, while also functioning as a crankshaft-mounted starter generator. Energy is supplied by a 48V battery – which is charged through what BMW describes as “highly efficient adaptive recuperation under braking and on the overrun” – housed in the engine compartment. Of course, this adds more heft, with the updated X5 M Competition’s listed unladen (DIN) weight coming in at 2 400 kg, an increase of 90 kg compared with the pre-facelift version.

The 8-cylinder unit, meanwhile, gains a reinforced crankshaft drive, “further developed” turbocharging, a new air-intake duct and an “optimised” oil supply system and oil separation process. The Munich-based automaker claims the tweaked V8 and the mild-hybrid gubbins take the performance of the SUV twins “to an even more enthralling level”. However, it’s worth noting the claimed 0-100 kph time actually slows a tenth of a second to 3.9 seconds. The WLTP combined fuel economy figure fascinatingly also worsens slightly (now ranging from 12.7 to 13.1 litres per 100 km, up from 12.5).

How else have the X5 and X6 M Competition changed?

BMW has also incorporated new catalytic converters, which ostensibly improve the petrol engine’s emissions. Both the X5 M Competition and X6 M Competition furthermore benefit from a “newly adapted” version of the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system, which teams up with an active M differential at the rear axle, while the latter’s toe-in values have been modified for “greater poise at high speeds”. The standard adaptive M suspension Professional system features reworked electronically controlled dampers and active-roll stabilisation, while the steering has also been revised.

What about styling? Well, the main changes come up front, where both models now boast matrix LED headlights with adaptive control and the “BMW Selective Beam” non-dazzling high-beam system. The outline of each of the new headlight units is 35 mm narrower than before, while the grille is now all-black in colour, features larger model badging and together with the central lower air intake forms an X-shaped motif.

Round back, a prominent diffuser insert extends downwards at the lower edge of the rear apron and provides a border for the 2 pairs of twin-tailpipes. The X5 M Competition also gains X-shaped fibre-optic light-guide elements in its taillights and brake lights. Both models ship standard on 21-inch M light-alloy wheels at the front paired with 22-inch items at the rear.

A look inside the facelifted X5 and X6 M Competition cabins

The most obvious update inside is the adoption of the latest BMW Curved Display, which is formed (under a single piece of glass) by a 12.3-inch information screen behind the steering wheel and a control display with a diagonal of 14.9 inches.

Other new features inside include a broad interior trim strip in Fineline Black wood with a high-gloss metal effect, an ambient light bar with backlighting (and the addition of an “M” logo to its graphic) and an M leather-trimmed steering wheel with new carbon gearshift paddles.

Technology updates come in the form of fresh automated driving and parking systems. The standard front collision warning’s range of functions, for instance, has been extended so that it now also reduces the risk of a collision with cyclists, pedestrians and oncoming traffic when turning off a road. The lane-departure warning function has likewise been upgraded with the addition of lane return with steering assistance, while available options now include automatic speed limit assist, an exit warning function, active navigation, route speed control, traffic light recognition (though this won’t be available in all markets), an emergency stop assistant and a lane-change and merging assistant.

There’s also a new (optional) Parking Assistant Professional that makes it possible to control automated parking manoeuvres into and out of spaces – as well as other “full manoeuvres” covering a distance of up to 200 metres – from outside the vehicle using the My BMW App on an Apple iPhone.

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