BMW M has unveiled the third generation of its high-performance executive Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) and Sports Activity Coupe (SAC) models.

The allure of the new BMW X5 M and new BMW X6 M - and the BMW X5 M Competition and BMW X6 M Competition models set to be launched alongside them in April 2020 - resides not only in their flamboyant design and luxurious character, but also in their class-leading dynamism, agility and precision.

At the heart of their sublime powertrain and chassis combination is the latest incarnation of the high-revving V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology developed by BMW M GmbH.

The eight-cylinder unit boasts two turbochargers with indirect charge air cooling, a cross-bank exhaust manifold, direct injection and VALVETRONIC variable valve timing, enabling it to deliver a maximum output of 591bhp in the BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M and 617bhp in the Competition models.

The 4.4-litre V8 works in tandem with an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic, a version of the M xDrive all-wheel drive system specially tuned for these models and the Active M Differential, delivering superlative propulsive power over any terrain and revealing signature M performance combined with X model versatility.

The new BMW X5 M and new BMW X6 M both accelerate from zero to 100km/h in 3.9 seconds and will reach 200km/h in 13.7 and 13.5 seconds respectively, while the new BMW X5 M Competition races to 100km/h from rest in 3.8 seconds and to 200km/h in 13.4 seconds.

The new BMW X6 M Competition, meanwhile, stops the clock at 3.8 seconds and 13.2 seconds for the same two sprints. All models have an electronically limited top speed of 250km/h, which increases to 290km/h if the optional M Driver's Package is selected.

Class-leading driving dynamics is ensured via the M-specific front and rear axles, which feature unique kinematic and elastokinematic properties, as well as super-stiff mountings connecting the suspension to the body.

The new BMW X5 M and new BMW X6 M ride as standard on 21-inch M light-alloy wheels featuring a twin-spoke design. M light-alloy wheels with different rim diameters at the front and rear axle are also making their BMW X model debut as an optional extra for the BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M and as standard on the Competition versions.

The new M models will be identifiable by their large air intakes in the protruding front aprons, the M specific BMW kidney grille with black double bars, M gills on the front side panels, aerodynamically optimised exterior mirrors and the two pairs of exhaust tailpipes integrated into the rear apron.

The flared wheel arch trims also lend added emphasis to the wide stance of all four cars. The familiar M design is brought to a conclusion by a roof spoiler on the SAV models, or a rear spoiler on the SACs.

The Competition versions can also be identified by their BMW kidney grille surrounds which, like the M gills, the exterior mirror caps, the model badges, the top part of the diffuser trim in the rear apron and the exhaust tailpipes, are finished in Black. An engine cover, exterior mirror caps and - for the new BMW X6 M and new BMW X6 M Competition - a rear spoiler made from carbon fibre are available as an option.

The cabin of the new BMW X6 M, BMW X6 M Competition and BMW X5 M Competition is equipped with a forward-rising centre console and knee pads on the sides. All models come as standard with illuminated door sill plates (with special surfacing and badging on the Competition versions), interior trim strips in Aluminium Crossline (Carbon Fibre on the Competition models) and M multifunction seats with integral head restraints bearing an illuminated model badge.

The interior of the Competition models also comes with an anthracite BMW Individual headliner in Alcantara. The bi-colour fine-grain Merino full leather trim includes M-specific hexagonal quilting, which is also used for the door trim panels. This interior option wraps the lower section of the instrument panel, the front seat backs, the door panelling and the door pockets in leather too. Full leather trim in a Midrand Beige and Black colour scheme with Alcantara applications is available exclusively for the Competition models.