In what might be called a “perfect storm,” forces have converged at BMW’s M division to produce a vehicle that moves like lightning, rumbles like thunder and leaves lesser vehicles quaking in its wake. Meet the 2010 X5 M.
The 2010 X5 M (and X6 M, too) opens a new chapter in BMW M history by combining, for the first time, a new kind of turbocharging technology with performance-tuned xDrive all-wheel drive. The new twin-turbo V8 truly has no peer. The numbers are breathtaking – 555 hp and 500 lb/ft of torque.
That performance comes from an M-engineered version of the BMW 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8. A new way to configure the intake and exhaust paths and turbochargers eliminates “turbo lag,” that slight hesitation before turbo boost builds in some turbocharged vehicles.
BMW M calls the setup “reverse flow” because it swaps the traditional locations for the intake plumbing and exhaust manifolds. A unique single exhaust manifold positions two low-mass twin-scroll turbochargers together with the catalytic converters in the “V” section between the two banks of cylinders. The pressurized fuel/air mixture enters the engine from what in conventional V8s is the “exhaust side.”
The X5 M engine produces its 500 lb/ft of peak torque from 1,500 to 5,650 rpm. Essentially, the moment you press the gas pedal, all that torque hits like a sledgehammer – but a civilized sledgehammer.
To convert that massive wave of torque into rapid forward motion, the X5 M employs BMW’s innovative xDrive all-wheel drive system, programmed to channel more power to the rear wheels. Featured for the first time on a BMW M model, a six-speed M sports automatic transmission delivers instantaneous response. When commuting, leave it in “Drive” mode for convenience and comfort. When taking the long, twisty road home, switch into “Sport” or “M Manual” mode for absolute control of gear selection.
Aluminum pull-style paddles on the steering wheel allow manual shifting (Right for upshifts, Left for downshifts). Sure to be a favorite feature of M Manual mode is Launch Control, which helps you accelerate the X5 M in what BMW calls “genuine racing style.” Translation: The X5 M can blast from zero-to-60 mph in a blistering 4.5 seconds with the consistency of an NHRA Pro Stock driver.
A BMW does not earn the M badge by fierce acceleration alone. Special tuning of xDrive and Dynamic Stability Control with M Dynamic Mode ensure that the X5 M is equally at home when the road is also less than straight. The trump card here is the new Dynamic Performance Control. The special rear differential “vectors” torque between the right and left rear wheels, which gives this sports activity vehicle superb stability through curves.
Self-leveling rear air suspension and Adaptive Drive with Electronic Damping Control (EDC) and Active Roll Stabilization (ARS) make for a mouthful. Their net contribution is to give this five-passenger vehicle the moves of a sportscar. The 20-inch alloy wheels use staggered-size run-flat tires – 275/40R20 at the front and 315/35R20 at the rear. The M brake system, with huge rotors front and rear, ensures stopping ability commensurate with acceleration.
The MSRP of $85,400 delivers a full complement of luxury including 14-way power-adjustable driver and front passenger M Sport seats (including four-way adjustable power lumbar support and three-stage heating), two-position memory system for the driver's seat, steering wheel and outside mirrors, Extended Merino Leather upholstery and brushed aluminum Shadow interior trim, M door sills and driver's footrest.
Outside, the look is unmistakably M with a specific front fascia, special gills in the front fenders and body-colored side skirts. Inside, the standard 16-speaker audio system sounds like it might also have received the “M” performance treatment with its digital nine-channel, 600-watt amplifier, digital sound processing (DSP) and two subwoofers.
Also on the standard equipment roster are Dynamic Cruise Control, Rain Sensor, Auto-Dimming Mirrors, Park Distance Control and Xenon Adaptive Headlights.
Topping it off – quite literally – is the “Top View” feature that is part of the optional Driver Assistance Package. Using input from a camera on each side of the vehicle and the rearview camera, Top View projects a “birds-eye view” of the vehicle on the iDrive control screen. It helps make maneuvering in tight parking situations easier and safer.
Parking, though, will be your least favorite maneuver in the amazing X5 M.
