Click to see the contenders: Audi RS Q3 | Audi SQ5 | BMW X5 M | Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT | Lexus NX200t F-Sport | Mercedes-Benz GLA45 AMG | Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG |
Check out the test summary here (click). Find the drag results here (click). The final verdict is here (click).
BMW X5 M
The Bavarian company’s first “fast” X5 was the 4.8is. This SUV’s 4,8-litre V8 engine produced a whopping 265 kW of power and revved to an amazing 7000r/min – back in 2002. Since then there have been a number of “fast” X5 derivatives, the most notable in recent times being the M50d, powered by a straight-six turbodiesel that develops 280 kW and 740 Nm. Impressive? Sure it is.
But those numbers pale in comparison to the new BMW X5 M – the most complete “fast” X5 to date. Its twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine has 423 kW and 750 Nm of torque available. 423 kW!
But this BMW is about so much more than just straight line speed. The suspension, steering, brakes, tyres and electronics are all significantly beefed up and adjusted to endow this “M” with astonishing dynamics in the corners, too. Although few owners will actually test BMW’s claim that this SUV is fully track-ready, we reckon it would probably be quite the track-day weapon. Just imagine overtaking that tweaked Golf GTi at Zwartkops on the outside, in a fast sweep!
Frankly, this BMW represents a new tier in the hierarchy of performance SUVs. But here’s the thing. The very same SUV that is so fast is still an SUV, and a very comfortable and luxurious one at that. So if you drive it in a sedate fashion (admittedly this is quite a challenge), it’s a perfectly practical runabout for the family.
But bury that hammer, and you (and the family) had better hold on. Oh boy, you’d better hold on!
Vital sats – BMW X5 M
Engine: 4395cc, twin-turbo V8
Power: 423 kW @ 6000r/min
Torque: 750 Nm @ 2200r/min
Gearbox: Eight-speed automatic
Tare weight: 2215kg
Power to weight ratio: 0,19 kW/kg
Drivetrain: Permanent xDrive
Electronic aids: Traction/stability, launch control
Price: R1 657 159
Monthly instalments (approx): R33 970