BMW's New X5 M60 to Feature a Pure V8 Engine, No Hybrid Assistance

Key Takeaways

• The new BMW X5 M60 will feature a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine with no hybrid assistance.
• The engine is expected to produce around 600 hp, slotting below the X5 M.
• The X5 M60 will not be the flagship version, as a fully-fledged M model will be offered in both V8 and all-electric configurations.
• The V8-powered X5 M60 will not be as fuel efficient as the hybrid M60e, but will likely sound better.
• The new X5 M will have a lot more power than its predecessor, giving BMW headroom to boost power from the M60 without stepping on the M5’s toes.

What’s Behind the Decision to Keep the V8 Engine?

In my experience, BMW’s decision to keep the V8 engine in the X5 M60 is a nod to enthusiasts who value the sound and performance of a traditional internal combustion engine.

The 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine is a proven powerplant that has been used in various BMW models, including the outgoing X5 M60i.

By retaining this engine, BMW is catering to customers who prefer the character and sound of a V8 engine over the more efficient but less emotive hybrid powertrain.

How Does the X5 M60 Compare to the M60e?

The X5 M60e uses a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six working alongside an electric motor and a 26.5 kWh battery pack, producing 603 hp and 590 lb-ft (800 Nm) of torque.

In contrast, the X5 M60 will have two extra cylinders, an extra turbocharger, and no electrification, resulting in a more traditional driving experience.

While the M60e is more fuel efficient, the X5 M60 will likely sound better and provide a more engaging driving experience.

What Can We Expect from the Fully-Fledged M Model?

The new X5 M will be offered in both V8 and all-electric configurations, with the V8 model likely using a plug-in hybrid setup similar to the one in the current M5.

This will give BMW the headroom it needs to boost power from the M60 without stepping on the M5’s toes.

The all-electric X5 M will likely be a more extreme version, with a focus on performance and handling.

How Will the X5 M60 Fit into BMW’s Lineup?

The X5 M60 will slot below the X5 M, providing a more affordable and less extreme alternative to the flagship model.

This will give customers a wider range of options, from the more efficient M60e to the more extreme X5 M.

The X5 M60 will also compete with other high-performance SUVs in the market, such as the Audi SQ7 and the Mercedes-AMG GLE 63.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will the X5 M60 be available with a hybrid powertrain?

No, the X5 M60 will feature a pure V8 engine with no hybrid assistance.

Q: How much power will the X5 M60 produce?

The X5 M60 is expected to produce around 600 hp, although the exact figure has not been confirmed.

Q: Will the X5 M60 be the flagship version of the X5?

No, the X5 M60 will not be the flagship version, as a fully-fledged M model will be offered in both V8 and all-electric configurations.