The 2024 BMW X5 M Competition

Because modern tire and suspension technology allows big machines to accelerate and corner like true lightweights, there are more options than ever in the six-figure space. While virtually all high-output SUVs rely on some combination of a twin-turbocharged V8, active air suspension, and all-wheel drive, their varying commitment to outright performance begins to separate them. At the most track-focused end of the scale are options like the Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT, while softer, more luxury-oriented contenders like Audi’s SQ 8 bring up the other end.

If there’s one SUV that pins itself squarely in the middle, it’s the 2024 BMW , the calibration of these systems certainly does. Starting at $123,295, including a $995 destination charge, the X5 M strikes a near-perfect balance, offering supercar-level performance without losing sight of its positioning as a luxury SUV. Since the as-tested price of $141,445 is below the XM’s $159,995 base price, this could be M’s true crown jewel.

Refreshed for the 2024 model year, the BMW X5 M Competition is now the only trim level available if you want a true M variant, same for the adjacent X6 M Competition. The most significant update of this latest generation is the addition of a 48-volt mild hybrid system that is integrated directly into this SUV’s eight-speed automatic transmission. Although the power output of 617 hp remains unchanged from its predecessor, the electric motor supports the combustion engine and generates up to 12 hp and 147 Nm of torque. The goal is to eliminate turbo lag and improve overall responsiveness, while making the Comp’s powertrain slightly more efficient.

The S68 that is in the nose of this X5 also receives notable updates. These include a strengthened crankshaft drive, an updated turbocharger mounted closer to the exhaust manifold, an updated air intake system and a new oil pump. All told, the 2024 BMW (or 280 km/h if you opt for the available M Driver’s Package. All available power reaches the road via the Comp’s all-wheel drive, which is assisted by an active rear differential.

It may seem counterintuitive, but what’s most striking about the X5 M’s updated engine isn’t what you feel, but what you don’t feel. The previous pre-facelift model pumped out an identical 617bhp and accelerated with the ferocity you’d expect from something developing that much power. But as with most high-performance turbo cars, powertrain response was often far from immediate. This is not the case with the facelifted 2024 BMW with turbos could ever offer.

Launching from a standstill, the quoted time of 3.7 seconds to 60 mph feels conservative. This 5,498-pound family hauler, which weighs about the same as a Rolls-Royce Ghost, picks up speed almost instantly as the rear squats without losing traction. Although the sound of its burbling, deep, throaty V8 is piped in through speakers, it adds to the overall drama of the experience as the eight-speed automatic rips through the gears with surprising speed. As you approach a tight bend and downshift a few times, the 2024 BMW -rubber. While 21-inch wheels come standard, our tester had a staggered set of 22-inch wheels in the rear.

There’s more good news when it comes time to slow things down. A standard set of M Compound brakes with 15.6-inch rotors, six-piston calipers up front and 15-inch discs, and a single-piston floating caliper at the rear, effortlessly counter the aforementioned acceleration. Even when driven back-to-back on our favorite mountain road, their performance remained consistent, inspiring confidence. As with other M products, the 2024 BMW X5 M Competition’s steering is quick and direct, despite not having much feedback. Significant changes in direction require only small steering inputs, which match the powerful, responsive brakes and improved throttle response. The result is an SUV that feels more responsive than the car it replaces, improving driving enjoyment around corners and on wide-open straights.

However, dial things back and the X5 M Comp is willing to adapt in a way that even its more expensive brother, the XM, cannot. Although this facelifted model benefits from extra chassis stiffness, the suspension remains surprisingly supple in Comfort mode. Previous M-badged SUVs have struggled in this department, ranging from the X4 M Competition to the aforementioned XM. These family haulers have always managed to impress in the corners, but quickly fell apart around town due to their painfully stiff ride and unwanted bounce. The X5 M Comp stands out by really softening itself in Comfort mode, even when equipped with the optional larger wheels. While tackling significant road imperfections, the suspension quickly soaks them up without crashing or sending unwanted vibrations through the cabin.

Inside, the 2024 BMW X5 M Competition benefits from notable updates, such as a curved dual-screen display. The instrument cluster measures 12.3 inches, while the adjacent infotainment screen measures 14.9 inches. BMW’s latest iDrive 8 powers them and features an app-like layout that, while nice to look at, can be difficult to navigate. However, it now offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. A heads-up display and Harman Kardon surround sound system are standard, with a panoramic moonroof and leather dashboard. Our tester wore a beautiful Taruma Brown Merino leather interior with contrasting black leather accents, a shade that matches nicely with the Urban Green exterior.

As part of the recent facelift, the X5 M now benefits from updated headlights, taillights and M Shadowline finish as standard. While the headlights are slightly slimmer than those of its predecessor, the addition of a gloss black bezel at the front and sharper lines around the air intakes and rear diffuser give this updated model a more aggressive aesthetic. New paint finishes such as Brooklyn Gery, Isle of Man Green and Frozen Pure Gray are added for the 2024 model, while 50 shades of BMW Individual finishes are also available.

Starting at $123,295, including a $995 destination charge, the 2024 BMW X5 M Competition is priced almost identically to Mercedes-AMG’s GLE 63 S and slightly higher than the Audi RS Q8. However, it is well below Porsche’s nearly $200,000 Cayenne Turbo GT.

While the six-figure performance SUV space may have more options than ever, few strike such a fine balance between luxury and performance as the 2024 BMW while the active suspension, massive brakes and quick steering guide it effortlessly through tight corners. But even when things slow down, the suspension softens considerably, a feat that has eluded many M-badged SUVs in recent years. And thanks to an updated cabin with the latest technology and a more chiseled exterior, this range-topping X5 certainly looks its best. While it may not have the track-worthy performance of the Turbo GT or the ultimate smoothness of Audi’s SQ 8, it’s just right for anyone looking for the ideal centerpiece.