2020 BMW X7 M50i and BMW X5 M50i have sports car performance with off-roadability on offer too
The two new top models in the BMW X5 and X7 M variants are powered by the new 8-cylinder petrol engine – based on BMW TwinPower Turbo technology with a maximum output of 390 kW/530 hp – built into both the BMW X5 M50i and the BMW X7 M50i models. Both models combine the V8 engine with the intelligent BMW xDrive all-wheel drive system and a model-specific suspension technology, developed with expertise from BMW M GmbH. The new BMW X5 M50i and the new BMW X7 M50i will be produced from August 2019 at the BMW plant in Spartanburg in the USA and will be available from autumn 2019.
Several components have been upgraded since the previous engine version; these include the crankcase, cylinder barrels, pistons, crankshaft and cylinder head – and above all, the freshly updated BMW TwinPower Turbo technology. The turbochargers positioned between the cylinder banks in the V compartment have been enlarged, while the direct petrol injection performs at a new maximum pressure level of 350 bar. The technology package also includes the newest versions of the fully variable VALVETRONIC valve control and variable double VANOS camshaft control.
The new V8 engine generates its maximum torque of 750 Nm at 1 800 rpm – and it remains available up to an engine speed of 4 600 rpm. Accordingly, the power output is as strident as you would expect it to be. The maximum value of 390 kW/530 hp is activated between 5500 and 6000 rpm. As a result, the new BMW X5 M50i is able to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds. The new BMW X7 M50i completes its standard sprint in 4.7 seconds. There is standard M sport exhaust system on offer. 8-speed Steptronic sports transmission, BMW xDrive and M sports differential is standard
The performance features of both of these thoroughly sports-oriented SAV models are supported by the rather specific nature of the power transmission. The new V8 engine is combined as standard with an 8-speed Steptronic sports transmission, characterised by highly dynamic gear shift properties. Shift paddles are mounted near the steering wheel for manual control of the choice of gear. The Launch Control function enables traction-optimised acceleration with maximum dynamic performance from standing.
In addition, the standard equipment of the new BMW X5 M50i and the new BMW X7 M50i also includes an M sports differential. The electronically controlled differential lock in the rear bevel gears limits the rotational speed balancing between the wheel on the innermost side of a bend and that on the outermost side and enables highly dynamic acceleration when exiting a bend. In addition, the M sports differential, which is interconnected with the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), optimises traction and power transmission when driving on loose terrain and when different road friction values exist between the right and left rear wheels. This serves to prevent wheel spinning arising due to insufficient grip, with the torque being redirected to the other wheel.
Both models employ a construction principle comprising a double-wishbone front axle and a five-link rear axle combined with specific kinematics and elastokinematics for the wheel suspension, independent suspension and damping settings, and 21 inch M light alloy wheels complete with mixed tyres. The standard equipment also includes electromechanical steering with Servotronic function and an M sport brake system with blue-coated brake calipers complete with M logo. Also available as optional equipment are 22 inch light alloy wheels, again fitted with mixed tyres.
The new BMW X5 M50i is equipped with Adaptive M suspension. One of two sets of characteristics can be selected for the electronically controlled dampers, which can be activated using the driving experience switches, comprising COMFORT and SPORT modes. The new BMW X7 M50i is fitted with adaptive dual axle air suspension, which is also available optionally for the new BMW X5 M50i.
In the SPORT driving mode, as well as at speeds of over 138 km/h, this automatically results in a reduced ride height of 20 millimetres. However, the driver is also able to adjust the height of the body by activating a button in the cockpit; two levels are available, raising the height up to 40 millimetres above the standard setting; this is useful when driving off-road, for example.
Optional integral active steering is available for both models, which serves to further enhance the vehicle’s agility. It also results in enhanced superiority when it comes to lane changing and manoeuvrability in urban traffic, by co-steering the rear wheels either in the same or in the opposite direction, depending on the driving speed. A further increase in superiority and dynamics of the drive characteristics is produced by the integral active steering, the active electronic anti roll stabilizers, which ensures very fast and precise balancing of lateral roll forces during dynamic cornering, by means of electric swivel motors fitted to the front and rear axles. Both are an integral part of the optional Adaptive M Suspension Professional package for the new BMW X5 M50i and the optional Executive Drive Pro equipment available for the new BMW X7 M50i.
Model-specific changes include a extra-large air inlets in the front apron are a clear indication of the V8 engine’s cooling requirements. The unique design of the side sills and rear apron, the BMW individual high-gloss Shadow Line, and selected design elements in Cerium Grey similarly serve to underline the outstanding status of the 8-cylinder models.
The interior of the two top models of the BMW X family features an M leather steering wheel, a gear selector lever displaying the M logo, Vernasca leather upholstery with contrast stitching and perforated surfaces and interior strips in Aluminium Tetragon (BMW X5 M50i) or Fineline Black precious wood finish with high-gloss metallic effect, together ensuring a luxurious feel with a sporty touch. And as if that wasn’t enough, the standard equipment also comprises illuminated entry sills displaying the ’M50i’ logo, a headliner in Anthracite (BMW X5 M50i) or Alcantara Anthracite (BMW X7 M50i) and a Hi-Fi loudspeaker system (BMW X5 M50i) or Harman Kardon surround sound system (BMW X7 M50i).
