BMW’s M-Performance line is about to get even bigger with the introduction of the new X5 M50i and X7 M50i, the biggest M-Performance SUVs yet.
M-Performance isn’t full-on M-spec, but rather a more affordable blend of performance and luxury with greater mass appeal. This explains why on the outside, BMW has kept things quiet with subtle, tasteful tweaks. The bumpers and sills are more aggressive, with larger air intakes at the front and pronounced diffuser-like elements at the rear being the most notable changes. Black Shadowline trim with Cerium grey highlights is special to M-Performance line cars, while big, 22-inch wheels with non-run-flat tires are standard equipment on both models. 21-inch wheels with run-flat tires and 22-inch wheels with run-flat tires are available as optional equipment. Inside, things are equally as subtle, with an M-branded steering wheel, perforated leather with contrast stitching, an anthracite headliner and a few little model-specific logos being the only changes.
When it comes to performance, both the X5 M50i and the X7 M50i pack a punch in the form of a revised 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 engine with a stronger block with iron-coated cylinder walls, reinforced Graphal-coated pistons and a viscous crank damper to quell vibrations. This package is good for 523 horsepower between 5,500 and 6,500 RPM and 553 lb-ft of torque delivered in a broad plateau between 1,800 and 4,600 RPM. The revised engine is mated to a sport 8-speed automatic transmission with a proactive shift map function that’s tied to the vehicle’s GPS system and active cruise control radar sensor to automatically select the perfect gear anytime. In addition, the sport automatic transmission gets paddle shifters and a launch control function. As a final drivetrain piece de resistance, both the X5 M50i and X7 M50i come standard with an M-Sport active rear differential for increased traction under power. In terms of chassis upgrades, the X5 M50i comes standard with sport-tuned adaptive damping. Optional on the X5 M50i and standard on the X7 M50i is adaptive air suspension which can lower by 20mm at speed or when the vehicle is in sport mode. Finally, when it comes to braking, each vehicle is equipped with a set of M-Sport calipers and two-piece rotors. Altogether, BMW says the X5 M50i is capable of going from a dead stop to 100 km/h in 4.2 seconds while the X7 M50i is said to do the 0-100 km/h dash in 4.6 seconds.
Pricing for the 2020 BMW X5 M50i and X7 M50i has not been announced yet. Expect more information to be released closer to their on-sale date this fall.
