BMW have unveiled the new M-powered X5 and X6 models, offering a new benchmark in four-wheel drive capabilities.

As the first xDrive four-wheel drive cars, the BMW X5 M and the X6 M are a journey into new territory for BMW, while the twin-turbocharged 555hp V8 engine heralds the launch of the most powerful road-going M car the company has ever launched.

The new range flagships to the X5 and X6 portfolio are both powered by the same 4,395cc twin turbocharged V8 engine producing a maximum power output of 555hp at 6,000rpm. Such prodigious performance equates to a zero to 62mph time of 4.7 seconds – comparable to the critically acclaimed BMW M3. The X5 M and X6 M, courtesy of twin-scroll twin-turbo technology, are also capable of near diesel-powered engine flexibility with a peak torque of 680Nm from just 1,500rpm through to 5,650rpm.

Like every new BMW currently on sale, the X5 M and the X6 M come with elements of BMW’s award-winning EfficientDynamics programme fitted as standard.

Brake Energy Regeneration, on-demand delivery of the air-conditioning and the volume flow control of the hydraulic fluid in the steering all serve to improve fuel consumption and CO2 emission figures.

2009 BMW X6 M

The X5 M and X6 M customer can even fine tune the chassis of their new vehicle for greater enjoyment. 

The customer can configure the Electronic Damper Control, Head-Up Display, Dynamic Stability Control setting and the degree of assistance from the Servotronic steering system. 

Via the M Drive Manager, a menu system that lets the driver tailor the car’s characteristics and is activated with a button on the steering wheel, the desired response of all these settings can be engaged with a single press of a button. 

The driver can have an outright sport setting on standby while riding in a more comfortable mode day to day. As the X5 M and the X6 M are true M cars they both feature the renowned Launch Control function for optimum acceleration from standstill available for use via the M Drive Manager function. 

All of this electronic architecture is co-ordinated by the Integrated Chassis Management system, a highly advanced electronic brain. 

The BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M go on sale 24 October, 2009. Prices will be announced at a later date.