The lately facelifted BMW X5 M and X6 M Competitors are practically an identical twins, making the choice between them a matter of private choice and particular person necessities. Throughout an official BMW occasion in Athens, Greece, we had the chance to take a look at these two performance-focused SUVs aspect by aspect, which allowed us to type our personal opinions on this spirited sibling rivalry.
The coupe-fied SUV section has confirmed to be fairly fashionable with consumers from all all over the world even when it stirs controversy amongst conventional automotive lovers. Whereas I don’t think about myself to be among the many haters of the high-riding fashions with sloping rooflines, on this explicit battle my vote goes to the normal SUV (or SAV in line with BMW). And if you wish to know why, listed below are the 5 causes I discover the X5 M a greater purchase than the X6 M after testing each on the similar time.
1. Extra Trendy From The Again
Appears to be like are subjective however in my eyes, the upright tail of the X5 M appears to be like higher than the X6 M. Among the many elements for this conclusion is the small distance between the LED taillights of the X6M and its bulkier tail – regardless of the sexier roofline and coupe-style rear windshield which admittedly make it extra enticing from the entrance 3/4 view.
Different adjustments between the 2 SUVs moreover the rear part and the greenhouse embody the extra angular rear wheel arches of the X6 M, and the completely different aspect gills which I actually don’t thoughts. The aggressive face with the prolonged black trim and the brand new arrow-shaped LED graphics is shared between the 2, as with the quad tailpipes and the 21-inch wheels.
2. Rear Headroom
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For my part, the largest disadvantage of the X6 is its restricted headroom in comparison with the X5. As an individual standing at 6ft tall, I can comfortably match within the rear seat of the coupe-SUV. Nevertheless, throughout longer journeys, the extra rear headroom within the X5 could make a noticeable distinction when it comes to consolation.
In keeping with the official measurements, the distinction is 16 mm (0.6 inches) in favor of the X5 however it feels greater than that in actual life. Be aware that the general peak distinction between the 2 fashions is 67 mm (2.6 inches), with the extra conventional X5 measuring 1,762 mm (69.4 inches) tall. The ethereal feeling is accentuated by the bigger aspect home windows and the longer glass roof of the X5 which reaches additional again than within the X6, shedding extra mild contained in the cabin.
Apparently, the X6 has a bonus over its sibling when it comes to inside width for rear passengers. With a measurement of 1,542 mm (60.7 inches), it gives a further 17 mm (0.7 inches) of elbow and shoulder room, making it extra spacious in that facet.
| X5 M Competitors | X6 M Competitors | |
| Entrance Headroom | 1,037 mm (40.8 in.) | 1,025 mm (40.4 in.) |
| Rear Headroom | 984 mm (38.7 in.) | 968 mm (38.1 in.) |
| Boot | 650-1,870 lt (30-66 cu.ft.) | 580-1,540 (20.5-54 cu.ft) |
3. Bigger Boot
One other necessary issue to think about for SUV consumers is the form and dimension of the cargo space. On this facet, the X5 M takes the lead with its bigger capability. It provides between 650-1,870 liters (30-66 cubic ft) of house on the again, whereas the X6 M gives 580-1,540 liters (20.5-54 cubic ft). The X5 M has a bonus of a further 70 liters (2.5 cubic ft) in the usual 5-seater configuration. Moreover, the X5 M’s twin opening tailgate gives a flat loading space, giving it an edge over the X6 M making it really feel extra like a sedan as compared.
4. Identical Efficiency
This isn’t a lot of a bonus for the X5 M however the truth that the 2 fashions provide practically an identical efficiency figures limits the arguments in favor of the X6 M.
Each fashions are fitted with a mild-hybrid twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 engine that produces 617 hp (460 kW / 625 PS) and 553 lb-ft (750 Nm) of torque. Energy is transmitted to all 4 wheels via the 8-speed M Steptronic computerized with the assistance of the M xDrive AWD system and the Lively M Differential on the again. Efficiency-related goodies embody the M Compound Brakes, the Adaptive M Suspension, and the M Sport exhaust which sounds nice even in idle.
The additional bodywork of the BMW X5 M means it weighs 2,400 kg (5,291 kilos) which is 30 kg (66.1 kilos) greater than the X6M. Nevertheless, the official specification sheets recommend that this small distinction in mass doesn’t have a noticeable impact on efficiency.
| X5 M Competitors | X6 M Competitors | |
| 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) | 3.9 seconds | 3.9 seconds |
| 0-200 km/h (0-124 mph) | 13.8 seconds | 13.6 seconds |
| Prime Pace (M Driver’s Bundle) | 290 km/h (180 mph) | 290 km/h (180 mph) |
5. (Barely) Cheaper
Within the U.S., the BMW X5 M Competitors begins at $122,300, whereas the X6 M Competitors is priced increased, beginning at $127,200. Though the $5,000 distinction is probably not vital for consumers on this section, it does present the chance to spend money on extra options or choices, similar to a extra luxurious upholstery or varied non-obligatory packages and equipment. An identical situation will be noticed in Germany, the place the X5 M begins from €162,000 ($175,519) and the X6 M from €165,400 ($179,165), leading to a value distinction of €3,400 ($3,682).
Due to this fact, contemplating all of the elements talked about above, the X5 M emerges as my most popular alternative over the X6 M. Nevertheless, I’m genuinely curious to listen to from those that maintain the other choice and their causes behind it. That can assist you make up your thoughts, I created a short montage with footage I shot from these closely-related BMW M fashions.