http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/26/spy-sho...in-spartanburg/


Despite earlier assertions to the contrary, all indications are now that BMW is preparing its first batch of M-tuned sport-utilities, including an X5 M and X6 M. Advanced-stage test mules for both have now been spied by a keen photographer right here in the United States, at BMW's Performance Center test track in Spartanburg, South Carolina.

The prototype X5 and X6 M have enlarged air intakes with white LED headlamps up front and aerodynamic rear bumpers with quad pipes poking out the back. The trademark M division side gills have been camouflaged, but the exhaust notes are a reported dead giveaway: the X5 M prototype sounding like a twin-turbo V8, while the X6 M sounds more like a V10 or V12. The appearance of the M-tuned crossovers on American soil instead of on the Nurburgring gives us an idea of just who BMW will be targeting with these performance sport-utes. Check out all the spy shots in our gallery below and hit up the source for two spy videos. Mad props to PalBay for the tip and the shots!


http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.au...6_wxpbz-xl.jpg
http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.au...mxxyc-xl-1.jpg
http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.au...3_ybr7z-xl.jpg

Love the X5 cant wait to see the final project and specs.

MMMMMM!!!!

I love it !! that X6M will rock !

Lets just hope they don't actually put a "M" badge on them.

A 5,000+ lbs "M" vehicle. Yeah that goes with the "M" philosophy.

Come on BMW don't water down your M-division like Benz did with AMG.

"M" does stand for motorsports, or at least it use too.

MMMM...just what I've been waiting for! But not sure the world is ready for a pair of SUVs that will get hummer like mpg :ermm:

Think either will be available with a traditional manual shifter?

My guess is a new twin-turbo V10 engine with 580 - 620 hp and some 700 - 800 Nm of torgue.

No manual transmission will cope with those powers, but a semi-automatic will;
the double clutch system with M Drivelogic.

PS. I will wait for a 6,0 liter V12 with twin-variable-turbos. That engine would have BMW-logic*.
Combining two x35i engines to a lovely V12 twin-turbo.

* One cylinder should be 0.5 liter for the optimum engine-physics.
L4 2,0
L6 3.0
V8 4.0
V10 5.0
V12 6.0

Only a V12 can beat the L6 in smooth and balanced motor behavior.

I love the black tape over the roundel in the third photo--very stealth. That should really throw some people off the trail. :lol:

Gene, did you find any pictures of the X5 too?? :huh: I only see the X6. :whistle: