Dynamic duo -- BMW X5 M and X6 M

BMW unveiled its fire breathing high performance second-generation BMW X5 M and X6 M. According to BMW’s sporty M division, they have improved power, torque and performance by 10 per cent while lowering fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by over 20 per cent.These crossovers retain their 4.4-litre, twin-turbocharged V8s, but the power output is increased to 575hp and 750 Nm – four per cent more than the engine in the previous models. It is the most powerful engine ever developed by BMW for four-wheel-drive vehicles.

The M twins are mated with the new eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic, replacing the 6-speed gearbox. The X5 M and X6 M accelerate from 0-100 km/h in mere 4.2 seconds. Both the vehicles handling capability has improved further as BMW has revised the upper front wishbones, which has increased camber, camber progression and steering pivot axis, while directional stability has been increased thanks to revised elastokinematics with more rigid bearings. The X5 M and X6 M feature firmer suspension tuning, a 10 mm lower ride height, Dynamic Drive active roll stabilisation and self-levelling air suspension at the rear.

The three stage Dynamic Performance Control adjusts suspensions according to COMFORT, SPORT and SPORT+ modes. All-wheel drive is standard on both cars and they comes with Michelin Pilot Super Sport non-runflat 21-inch wheels, which is 1 inch lower than standard models.

When it comes to exterior design, the Ms get larger front intakes and the kidney gills are stretched further, while the rears get quad exhausts, body colour diffusers and, on the X6M, a spoiler.

Inside, the X5M and X6M get a new M-badged steering wheel, instrument cluster display, and Merino leather with M logos in the backrests.