Poor . He went from high style to bad style. It astounds all who follow the trends and design concepts that the German automaker keeps swinging and missing when it comes to style. While the backlash from buyers is expected to force some design departments to soul-search, newly released images of the SUVs and X6 M show the company continuing to beat its cars with the ugly stick.
The design of the BMW X5 and X6 is bad, but what about performance?
These are great cars if you can blindfold yourself before getting into one. From the arbitrary sculpting to the awkward angles and unfortunate blackout treatments, its looks are very unfortunate. At least the grilles aren’t over the top like on other BMWs.
, performance and interior certainly do. Its twin-turbo V8 heartbeat gets help from a 48V hybrid addition. The 617-hp Competition version receives a beefed-up crankshaft, better turbochargers, cross-bank exhaust manifolds, and more. Its new designation is S68.
What are the performance numbers for the BMW X5 and X6?
The eight-speed M Steptronic transmission now has an addition with the hybrid motor housed inside. These changes bring “sharper response and increased efficiency.” Looking at the numbers, the horsepower, zero-to-60 times and top speed of 155 mph are the same as previous competition data.
So without any performance improvements, we have to assume that the introduction of hybrid systems helps buyers make the switch to the inevitable all-electric BMW. Naturally, the M versions receive xDrive all-wheel drive, Active M differential, M sports exhaust, M compound brakes and Adaptive M Suspension Professional enhancements.
Has the interior of the BMW X5 and X6 improved?
Inside, the M greets drivers with its curved display. The panel includes a 14.9-inch infotainment screen alongside a 12.3-inch instrument cluster. BMW’s OS 8 controls what is displayed. A head-up display and a single button on the center console to control settings are part of BMW’s M setup menu.
Carbon fiber trim accents the cabin, but Fineline Black wood and open-pore Silver Ash Root wood are optional. Merino leather covers the interior surfaces, including the M steering wheel. A Harmon Kardon audio system is standard, with the Bowers & Wilkins audio system as an option. Other features include a Sky Lounge LED panoramic roof, soft close doors and heated massage seats.
What’s the bottom line?
Driver assistance enhancements are added to Parking Assistance Professional which includes reversing assistant and maneuvering assistant. These mimic the driver’s steering movements for short distances.
We can be thankful that the design brain trust chose to use a subdued grid. Now, if we can just get them to take a look at some of the amazing designs from other automakers in other countries, maybe we’ll get back to seeing BMW products that actually look as good as they drive.
MSRP for the M starts at $122,300. raises it to $127,200. Destination charges add another $995 for both models.
