BMW X5 M and X6 M 2023: $14K price hike for facelifted Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 rival

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BMW has pulled the covers off its new X5 M and X6 M SUV pairing that will be arriving in Australia exclusively in Competition guise from October 2023. 

Like the regular X5 and X6 SUVs, these high-performance twins have benefitted from a mild facelift, as well as tweaks to each powertrain. 

Upon arrival, we can expect to see the X5 and X6 M Competition pairing face off against the likes of the Mercedes-Benz GLS 63, and the Audi RS Q8.

Arguably the biggest change that’s come to the X5 and X6 M SUVs is the price, which has jumped $14,000 over the current models on offer. Because of this, the X5 M Competition will now cost $241,900 before on-road costs, and the X6 M Competition is $247,900 before on-road costs. 

What’s new on the outside of BMW’s X5 and X6 M SUVs? 

Brand new matrix LED headlights that sit in slimmer housings are the main difference at the front of the SUVs. These are complemented by the updated kidney grille, and X-shaped front fascia. 

At the rear, they get slimmed-down taillights,  with a larger rear diffuser that is angled towards the quad-exit exhaust system. 

Given that these SUVs are such high-performance machines, it should come as no surprise to see that they sit on a set of staggered wheels, measuring 21-inches at the front, and 22-inches at the rear. 

What about beneath the bonnet? 

Both the X5 M and the X6 M have retained the 4.4-litre twin-turbo petrol V8 engine, making a whopping 460kW and 750Nm. 

The biggest news here is that it’s now assisted by an electric motor that’s integrated into the transmission housing, and chips in with an extra 9kW/200Nm. This is powered by a 48-volt battery that sits in the engine compartment. 

Like the engine, the eight-speed ZF-sourced torque converter automatic transmission has also remained the same in both vehicles. 

As for performance, BMW has claimed that both the X5 and X6 M in Competition guise are able to hit 100km/h in 3.9-seconds. 

Curved displays finally comes to M SUV pairing

On the inside, the SUVs have been given BMW’s new curved display system that consists of a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, and a 14.9-inch digital cluster. 

Like all other applications of this display, the two large M SUVs are now running BMW’s iDrive 8  system. 

Other standard equipment includes the M multifunction sports seats, Merino leather upholstery, interior trim in carbon fibre, and a Harmon/Kardon premium sound system. 

What options are on offer? 

In the case of both SUVs, a comfort package is offered, but the equipment and price varies for either. 

In the X6 M, the comfort package costs $2100, and includes acoustic glass glazing, a roller sunblind, and an automated sliding rail in the luggage bay. 

The X5 M ups the cost to $2800, and adds an electric rolling cover for the luggage bay. 

An indulgence package is available for both models, which costs $9500, and adds an ambient air package, a panoramic sunroof, and a Bowers & Wilkins sound system. 

Other optional equipment includes an M Carbon engine cover for $2200 and M carbon mirror caps for $1600. X6 M-specific extras include black roof rails for $800, and an M carbon rear spoiler for $2000. 

BMW X5 and X6 M 2023: prices in Australia

All prices listed are before on-road costs.

• X5 M Competition: $241,900 (+14,000)
• X6 M Competition: $247,900 (+14,000)