BMW’s wildest large SUVs are getting a mid-life nip-and-tuck.
The 2023 BMW X5 M and X6 M have been spied testing, though their physical changes don’t appear to be quite as extensive as those made to the updated X7.
These updated SUVs are expected to debut in 2023.
While their larger, boxier relative is receiving a controversial new face with split headlights, the X5 M and X6 M – and their mainstream X5 and X6 counterparts – appear to be getting only minor tweaks up front.
These include slimmer headlights, as well as tweaks to their bumpers and grille inserts.
Like the updated X7, the X5 may also get the option of a backlit grille like the X6’s Iconic Glow item.
The X5 M prototype is wearing camouflage at the rear, but the X6 M prototypes aren’t.
Nevertheless, we expect minor tweaks to the rear bumper and tail light graphics, with the latter getting the chunkier, higher-contrast look we’ve seen on other updated Bimmers like the X3 and 5 Series.
Inside, the X5 and X6 are expected to receive the latest OS8.0 infotainment system, like the i4, iX and updated X7.
The related X7 uses a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch central touchscreen, with ‘Hey BMW’ voice, a central rotary dial, and touch inputs.
It’s unclear whether the X5 M and X6 M will receive more power, though we expect new engines to be offered lower down in the X5 and X6 ranges.
2023 BMW X7 
previous BMW X6 spy photo
The 2023 X7, for example, has been revealed with a new M60i variant featuring a detuned version of the X5 M and X6 M’s twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 engine with 390kW of power and 750Nm of torque.
The current X5 M Competition and X6 M Competition pump out 460kW and 750Nm. Less powerful X5 M and X6 M variants with 441kW of power are available in other markets.
Also likely to be borrowed from the updated X7 are a 280kW/540Nm 3.0-litre inline-six mild-hybrid petrol engine and a 259kW/720Nm 3.0-litre inline-six turbo-diesel, badged xDrive40i and xDrive40d, respectively.
MORE: Everything BMW X5
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