This current-generation BMW X5 M is probably one of the most astonishing cars BMW has ever made. Just looking at it and checking its weight figures, you’d think that there’s no possible way it can drive well and handle well. Except it does. It just does. It’s violently fast and pummels the road into submission, making it far more capable than its size would suggest. So the idea of a new X5 M being even more powerful, lighter and more capable is almost frightening.
As it turns out, BMW is currently in development of a new X5 M and a test mule has recently been caught doing some winter testing in Sweden (spy photos can be seen here). This new BMW X5 M will be built on the same new lightweight architecture as the current X3, so it will drop a significant amount of weight, gain better dynamics and newer technology. But, more importantly, it will also be getting more power.
While we don’t have any official information, the BMW X5 M will likely use the same 4.4 liter twin-turbocharged V8 as the new F90-gen BMW M5. That means about 600 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque. So it will pack more horsepower than the current car but the same amount of torque. Although, expect performance to increase significantly, thanks to a weight reduction. The current car can get from 0-60 mph in about 4 seconds but this one could do it in about 3.5 seconds.
What’s interesting is whether or not the new BMW X5 M will come with the M5’s xDrive all-wheel drive system, which would allow it to switch completely to rear-wheel drive. That might be a bit unsafe, as 600 hp, rear-wheel drive and a tall ride height might not be the best idea. So maybe it will come with the M5’s “4WD” and “4WD Sport” modes. That would actually be pretty awesome.
As far as looks go, the new X5 M obviously looks similar to the new X5 we’ve seen in previous spy photos, with its Kidney Grilles large enough for me to crawl into and seductive looking LED headlights. We can also see the quad exhausts out back. Aside from that, there’s not really much to make out that will differentiate it from the standard X5 yet. This is still an early test mule and it’s heavily covered in camouflaged. Stay tuned for more as we have it.
[Source: CarScoops]
