2024 BMW X5M Competition LCI // REVIEW on AUTOBAHN

Summary

Automotive reviewer Max test drives the updated 2023 BMW X5 M Competition SUV. He overviews the styling changes including aggressive new front end, larger wheels, and colors. Major mechanical updates include a new mild hybrid V8 engine, fortified body and transmission, and recalibrated suspension for sportier driving dynamics. During the test drive, Max critiques multiple aspects like the fake engine sounds piped into the cabin and overly firm ride quality. He concludes that the updates make it very quick but the lower M60i model offers a better daily driving balance.

Takeaways

• 👋 Introduction to the all-new 2023 BMW X5M Competition, highlighting its updates in styling and mechanical aspects.
• 🔥 Styling updates include new headlights, a more aggressive front end with an XM-like grille, large air intakes, and updated wheels and tires.
• 🚗 Mechanical updates with the switch from the S63 to the S68 engine, a 4.4L V8 biturbo with mild hybrid support, maintaining 625 horsepower and 750 Nm of torque.
• 🛠 Suspension changes aimed at making the car sportier, with regular coilover springs instead of air suspension, and minor adjustments to soften the ride slightly.
• 🔍 New aesthetic elements like matte Frozen gray paint and carbon fiber accents, along with functional features like a split tailgate and integrated starter generator for a mild hybrid system.
• 🔨 Critiques on the car's sound profile, mentioning excessive fake sound through speakers and preference for natural engine sounds over artificial enhancements.
• 📈 Performance metrics include a 0-100 km/h time of 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 290 km/h with the optional M Driver's Package.
• 💼 Interior updates feature the new iDrive 8 system with dual screens, criticized for being less intuitive compared to previous versions.
• 📺 Driving dynamics praised for impressive handling and control, despite criticisms of the steering feel and the stiffness of the suspension for daily driving.
• 🛡️ Comparison to the BMW X5 M60i, suggesting it offers a better balance for daily use with adequate power and more comfort, though the X5M Competition excels in performance.

Q & A

What are the main styling changes to the new BMW X5M Competition?

The main styling changes are the new aggressive front end with a large grille, new headlights, more black accents, larger wheel and tire sizes, and updated rear lights.

What updates were made to the engine in the new X5M Competition?

The new X5M Competition has the S68 4.4L twin-turbo V8 engine with 48V mild hybrid system, compared to the previous S63 engine. It makes the same 625 hp and 750 Nm torque.

What changes were made to the suspension and handling of the new X5M?

It still uses fixed coilover springs instead of air suspension for better handling. Some updates were made to soften it slightly but it is still very stiff and sporty.

What does the reviewer think about the fake engine sounds piped into the cabin?

He strongly dislikes the fake and enhanced engine sounds, finding them overly dramatic and aimed at young enthusiasts. He prefers the natural V8 sound.

What performance specs does the new X5M Competition have?

0-100 km/h in 3.9 seconds. Top speed of 290 km/h with the optional M Driver's Package.

How does the new X5M Competition compare to the previous model?

It has the same 0-100 km/h time but is 0.2 seconds slower from 100-200 km/h than the previous X5M Competition model.

What does the reviewer think about the X5M Competition as a daily driver?

He finds it too stiff and jiggly over varied roads for daily use. He prefers the softer X5 M60i as a daily performance SUV.

What transmission does the new X5M Competition use?

It uses the familiar ZF 8-speed automatic transmission, with some updates to quicken up the shifts.

What changes were made to improve the exhaust sound?

New catalytic converters were added to make the real exhaust even quieter, pushing more fake sound through the speakers.

How does the reviewer summarize his thoughts on the new X5M facelift?

He says it is a significant facelift with lots of updates, but thinks it's still too stiff and dramatic for a daily driver.