2009 BMW X5 M (E70) 4.4L xDrive V8 6AT AWD (555 HP)

Vehicle Overview

BMW introduced the most potent X5 to that date and added the notorious M badge on it, confirming that it can provide performance at any level for any ground clearance.

The X5 and X6 M were the first all-wheel-drive vehicles that ever sported the M-logo. Before that, the carmaker provided powerful versions ever since the first generation, with the 4.4-liter and the 4.6-liter engines, but those were not considered worthy enough to wear the magic light-blue, navy-blue, and red logo. That version came only on the second generation of the X5 in 2009.

Any M car had to tick more boxes than any other BMW, and the X5 followed the same procedure. BMW’s motorsport department enhanced the car’s look with new front bumpers with enlarged air dams. Two large and rectangular air scoops flanked the center lower grille. On its sides, the carmaker added M-specific badges on the front fenders. From its profile, the 20″ light-alloy wheels with unique design emphasized the car’s performance, while at the back, the four exhausts confirmed it.

Inside, the X5 featured a leather-clad interior with specific M-badges on the steering wheel, the gear selector, and inside the tachometer. Its power-adjustable sport bucket-seats promised good side support with their adjustable bolsters. Piano-black trims adorned the center console, the door cards, and the dashboard. Last but not least, a pair of aluminum paddle-shifters was mounted behind the steering wheel. For the rear passengers, BMW offered the same spacious split-folding bench.

BMW’s motorsport department installed a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V-8 engine under the hood paired with a six-speed automatic transmission that sent the power in all corners. For stopping, the car featured four-pot calipers at the front and single-pot in the rear, while the all-wheel independent suspension was enhanced with adaptive dampers.