BMW X5 M F95: the 625 hp family SUV, S68 update, X6 M differences and specs

The BMW X5 M F95 is the high-performance version of the G05 X5. Built in Spartanburg since 2019, it combines a 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 with up to 625 hp, M xDrive all-wheel drive and the space and comfort of a full-size family SUV. In 2023, it received the new S68 V8 with a 48-volt mild hybrid system.

In this guide we explain how the F95 relates to the G05, the X5 M and X5 M Competition, the V8 engines and the 2023 update, M xDrive and the chassis, the differences to the X6 M, performance, practicality, running costs and the full specifications.

X5 M F95: the M version of the G05 X5

The BMW X5 M is the high-performance version of the X5. The current generation, code name F95, is based on the fourth-generation X5, the G05. BMW M uses the same body, but adds a twin-turbo V8, M xDrive, an M chassis, larger brakes and a more aggressive design.

The F95 was revealed in October 2019 together with the X6 M F96, and the first cars were delivered in 2020. Like every X5, it is built at the BMW plant in Spartanburg, South Carolina, in the USA. From the start, BMW offered the X5 M with 600 hp and the X5 M Competition with 625 hp.

The X5 M has a long history. The first X5 M of 2009 and its sister, the X6 M, were the first M cars with all-wheel drive and turbocharging. Our article on BMW X5 M and X6 M history tells the full story.

This article looks at the F95 generation. For the normal X5 of the same generation, with its six-cylinder, diesel and plug-in hybrid engines, read our BMW G05 X5 buying guide.

X5 M or X5 M Competition

In the first years of the F95, BMW offered two versions. The X5 M had 600 hp. The X5 M Competition had 625 hp and came with extra equipment, such as a firmer engine mounting, a sportier chassis set-up, high-gloss black exterior details, larger wheels and the M Driver's Package in some markets.

Both versions have 750 Nm of torque, the eight-speed M Steptronic gearbox and M xDrive. The difference in acceleration is small: BMW quotes about 3.9 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h for the X5 M and about 3.8 seconds for the Competition.

With the 2023 update, many markets, including Europe, offered only the X5 M Competition. That is why most cars on the used market today are Competition models.

The Competition badge has a long history at BMW M, from option packages to separate models. Our article on BMW CSL, CS, GTS and Competition explains what each name means. If the X5 M is more than you need, our article on the BMW X5 M60i explains the V8 X5 that sits just below it.

From S63 to S68: the V8 and the 2023 update

The first F95 cars use the S63, a 4.4-litre V8 with two twin-scroll turbochargers placed inside the V between the cylinder banks. In the Competition it produces 625 hp and 750 Nm from 1,800 rpm. Our article on the BMW S63 engine explains its technology.

With the update in 2023, BMW replaced the S63 with the new S68 engine. It is also a 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8, but it has a 48-volt mild hybrid system with an electric motor integrated into the gearbox. The mild hybrid helps when pulling away, makes the start-stop function smoother and can recover energy when braking. Power and torque stayed at 625 hp and 750 Nm.

The S68 is the same V8 family that BMW uses in the XM and the M5 G90, where it works with a plug-in hybrid system. In the X5 M, it works only as a mild hybrid, without a charging cable or electric-only driving. Our article on the BMW S68 engine explains the differences.

For buyers, the update means a choice between the proven S63 and the newer S68 with modern hybrid technology.

M xDrive, chassis and brakes

The X5 M sends its power through an eight-speed M Steptronic gearbox to M xDrive, an all-wheel drive system tuned by BMW M with a clear rear bias. An Active M Differential distributes power between the rear wheels. Our article on the BMW Active M Differential explains how it works.

The driver can choose between two M xDrive modes: 4WD for maximum traction and 4WD Sport, which sends even more power to the rear wheels for a sportier feel. Unlike the M5 or M3 with M xDrive, the X5 M has no pure rear-wheel drive mode.

The chassis has M-specific adaptive suspension, a stiffer body connection, special axle parts and M Servotronic steering. The Competition uses mixed wheel sizes: 21 inches at the front and 22 inches at the rear.

The M Compound brakes are large and powerful, and BMW also offers M carbon ceramic brakes. Our article on BMW carbon ceramic brakes explains their pros and cons. Through M Setup and the M1 and M2 buttons, the driver can store two complete set-ups for the engine, gearbox, chassis and brakes.

X5 M or X6 M?

The X5 M and the X6 M are technically almost the same. They share the engine, gearbox, M xDrive, chassis and most of the interior. Both are built in Spartanburg and have the same power. The difference is the body.

• X5 M: the classic SUV shape with an upright tailgate. It has more headroom in the back, a larger and more practical boot of about 650 litres and is better for families, dogs and bulky luggage.
• X6 M: the Sports Activity Coupé with a sloping roof. It looks more dramatic, but rear headroom and boot space are smaller.

Driving the two cars feels very similar. The X6 M looks sportier, while the X5 M is the more sensible choice for daily family use. Prices are close, so the choice usually comes down to taste and how much space you need.

If the coupé shape appeals to you, our BMW X6 M Competition guide covers the X6 M F96 in detail, including the buying checks that apply to both cars.

Performance on the road

With 625 hp and 750 Nm, the X5 M Competition is one of the fastest SUVs BMW has built. BMW quotes about 3.8 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h for the Competition. Top speed is limited to 250 km/h, or 290 km/h with the M Driver's Package. Our article on the BMW M Driver's Package explains the higher top speed and the driver training.

These numbers are remarkable for a car that weighs about 2.3 tonnes. The V8 delivers its torque from low engine speeds, so the X5 M accelerates hard from any speed, and the eight-speed gearbox changes quickly and smoothly.

On winding roads, the X5 M is much more agile than you would expect from its size, but physics still apply: the weight is noticeable under hard braking and in tight corners. On wet or snowy roads, M xDrive gives excellent traction, as long as the car has suitable tyres.

Our article on BMW launch control explains how to use the full performance safely. On public roads, the X5 M is at its best as a very fast, comfortable car for long journeys.

Design, interior and practicality

The X5 M looks wider and more muscular than the normal X5. It has large air intakes at the front, M side gills, M mirrors, a roof spoiler and four exhaust tailpipes. The Competition adds high-gloss black details and larger wheels. The 2023 update brought new headlights, a new front design and the BMW Curved Display inside.

The interior combines luxury and sport. M multifunction seats with integrated headrests, an M leather steering wheel with M1 and M2 buttons, M instruments and high-quality leather are typical. Many cars also have a head-up display, a panoramic roof and a premium sound system.

The X5 M is a five-seater. It has generous space in the back and a large boot, and the split tailgate makes loading easy.

Many owners also use their X5 M to tow a trailer, a horse box or a boat. Check the permitted towing weight in the vehicle papers before you buy a tow bar, and read our article on how to tow a BMW safely. Our article on BMW iDrive generations explains the Curved Display of the updated cars.

Living with an X5 M

The X5 M is a car you can use every day, but it is expensive to run. Servicing, fuel, insurance, tyres and brakes cost much more than for a normal X5. The large, mixed-size wheels need expensive tyres that cannot be swapped between the axles, and fuel consumption is high, especially in fast driving.

Before buying a used X5 M, check the service history carefully. The V8 needs regular oil changes with the correct oil and attention to oil leaks and cooling. Check the brakes, the tyres, the suspension and the electronics. The main points are the same as for the X6 M, which our X6 M Competition guide explains in detail. A pre-purchase inspection by an M specialist is strongly recommended.

Values fall quickly in the first years, which can make a used X5 M attractive for buyers who accept the running costs. An extended warranty can also be worth considering. Our articles on BMW M car running costs and on BMW extended warranty help to plan a realistic budget.

For families who want one car that can do everything, the X5 M Competition is hard to beat.

BMW X5 M Competition specifications

Specification	Value
Model	BMW X5 M and X5 M Competition (F95)
Based on	BMW X5 (G05), fourth generation
Production	From 2019 (first deliveries 2020); update 2023
Built in	BMW plant Spartanburg, South Carolina, USA
Body	5-door SUV (Sports Activity Vehicle), 5 seats
Engine	4.4-litre twin-turbo V8: S63; S68 with 48 V mild hybrid from 2023
Power	600 hp (X5 M); 625 hp (460 kW, Competition)
Torque	750 Nm from 1,800 rpm
Gearbox	8-speed M Steptronic with Drivelogic
Drive	M xDrive all-wheel drive (4WD, 4WD Sport), Active M Differential
0–100 km/h	About 3.8 s (Competition); 3.9 s (X5 M)
Top speed	250 km/h limited; 290 km/h with M Driver's Package
Weight	About 2.3 tonnes (DIN, depending on equipment)
Boot	About 650 litres
Wheels	21-inch front and 22-inch rear (Competition)
Predecessors	X5 M E70 (2009) and X5 M F85 (2014)

Frequently asked questions

Is the BMW X5 M a G05 or an F95?

Both. The X5 M has its own code name, F95, but it is based on the G05, the fourth-generation X5. It shares the body and much of the interior with the G05.

How much horsepower does the BMW X5 M Competition have?

The X5 M Competition has 625 hp (460 kW) and 750 Nm. The standard X5 M of the first F95 years had 600 hp. The 2023 update kept 625 hp but switched to the S68 V8 with a mild hybrid system.

How fast is the BMW X5 M Competition?

BMW quotes about 3.8 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h. Top speed is limited to 250 km/h, or 290 km/h with the M Driver's Package.

What is the difference between the X5 M and the X6 M?

Technically they are almost the same. The X5 M has an upright SUV body with more rear headroom and a larger boot, while the X6 M has a sloping coupé roof.

Is the X5 M a hybrid?

Cars from the 2023 update have a 48-volt mild hybrid system with the S68 V8. It supports the engine, but the X5 M cannot be charged with a cable and cannot drive on electricity alone.

Is the 3D car on this site an official BMW model?

No. The 3D car is a creative model for this site and not an official BMW file, so small details may differ from the real car. All facts in the text refer to the real BMW X5 M F95.

Sources

• BMW Group PressClub – BMW X5 M and X5 M Competition (F95) press kits and model update
• BMW M – BMW X5 M Competition
• BMW X5 M (F95) owner's handbook and technical data