x6m / x5m? outside of styling is there a difference?

[cue03]

almost every article or website etc that I come across in regards to the M version of the BMW SAV talks about and showcases the X6M and barely mentions the X5M. X6M, fastest SUV out on bar none etc etc etc.... shouldn't it say X5M and X6M?

I know on paper BMW says they are the same performance wise but is that truly the case? The X6M has different aerodynamics to the X5M so I am curious.

Is it strictly a looks thing for most of you X?M buyers?

Thanks

[LeMansX5]

They are both pretty much same. X6 was designed from get-go to have a M badge and M division was involved in the initial design of X6. X5 M on other hand is an afterthought. BMW did not intend to bring the M version of X5 during design stages. It was the chief of Spartanburg plant moved over to be chief of M division, who decided, combined with the fact that R&D will be split on 2 models.

Having said that X6 M should have marginally better overall performance and handling than X5 M. Also the reason why BMW gave the media X6 M as test drive car rather than X5 M.

[cue03]

Interesting. thanks for the information. Makes more sense now.

[LeMansX5]

This page has some info on your ques. If you can read the print.

[HIRISC]

X6M weighs marginally less. Same drivetrain.

Dynamically, they will be virtually identical. Nobody can detect a .1 sec to 60mph difference without equipment.

[cue03]

Thanks for the article. once i blew it up larger it was pretty easy to read. That does answer my question. Thanks.