2024 Bmw X5 M60I Review: The Perfect Blend of Performance and Luxury
If you are looking for a performance SUV that doesn't sacrifice daily usability or high-end luxury, you've landed in the right place. Welcome to our comprehensive 2024 Bmw X5 M60I Review. BMW gave the X5 line a significant "Life Cycle Impulse" (LCI) refresh for 2024, and the M60i sits right at the sweet spot—replacing the outgoing M50i.
This isn't just a minor facelift; the M60i brings a brand-new engine, revised styling, and a complete overhaul of the interior technology. We're going to dive deep into what makes this M Performance model truly special and whether it deserves a spot in your garage. Spoiler alert: it's fantastic.
What's New for the 2024 Bmw X5 M60I?
The transition from M50i to M60i is more than just a nomenclature change; it signifies a serious mechanical and technological upgrade. Externally, the M60i is sharper and more aggressive, particularly around the front end. BMW designers gave it slimmer headlights and revised air intakes that scream "M Performance."
The biggest visual difference is perhaps the redesigned kidney grille, which now features subtle horizontal slats and is optionally illuminated. Furthermore, the rear receives new taillights with a distinctive fiber-optic light signature that makes the M60i stand out, even at night.
However, the real action is under the skin and inside the cabin. Here are the key upgrades for the 2024 model year:
- Introduction of the new S68 V8 mild-hybrid engine.
- Standard inclusion of the M Sport Differential.
- Complete redesign of the dashboard featuring the BMW Curved Display.
- Upgraded operating system to iDrive 8.5.
- Revised front and rear bumper designs specific to the M60i trim.
Heart of the Beast: Performance and Powertrain
Let's talk power. The 2024 X5 M60i utilizes the new S68 twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine. While the output remains at a stout 523 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque (matching the previous M50i), the integration of a 48-volt mild-hybrid system is the game changer.
The mild-hybrid system primarily serves two functions: it provides a quick, supplementary 12 horsepower boost for smoother acceleration off the line, and it drastically improves the engine's start/stop functionality, making it nearly seamless. This means zero to 60 mph is achieved in a blistering 4.1 seconds—a truly impressive feat for a vehicle of this size.
The power delivery is immediate and addictive, channeled through a standard M Sport exhaust system that provides a fantastic, aggressive soundtrack when you push it. Moreover, the pairing with the refined 8-speed automatic transmission ensures shifts are lightning fast in Sport mode yet buttery smooth for daily driving.
Driving Dynamics: Does it Feel Like an M?
An M Performance vehicle must balance comfort with corner-carving ability, and the X5 M60i nails this brief. Standard equipment includes Adaptive M Suspension, which dynamically adjusts damping force based on road conditions and your driving mode. This suspension is crucial to giving the X5 its dual personality.
In Comfort mode, the ride is supple and compliant, easily soaking up road imperfections. Switch over to Sport Plus, and the vehicle hunkers down, sharpening the steering response and firming up the chassis. The standard inclusion of the M Sport differential ensures maximum traction when exiting corners, sending power precisely where it's needed.
While it can't defy physics entirely—it's still a large SUV—the body roll is remarkably contained. You get that confident, planted feeling synonymous with BMW's M division, making this a genuinely fun vehicle to drive on twisty back roads. This focus on driver engagement is a huge plus in this 2024 Bmw X5 M60I Review.
Interior Refinement and Technology
Stepping inside the 2024 X5 M60i is where you truly appreciate the LCI changes. The cabin feels vastly modernized, primarily due to the massive curved display that now dominates the dashboard. The material quality, as expected from BMW, is top-notch, with standard Merino leather and carbon fiber trim accents elevating the luxury factor.
BMW has also subtly revised the climate controls. Many physical buttons have been integrated into the new touchscreen system, creating a cleaner, more minimalist look. While this takes some getting used to, the overall aesthetic is one of clean, contemporary design.
BMW Curved Display and iDrive 8.5
The defining feature of the M60i's cabin is the gigantic curved screen, which combines a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and a 14.9-inch infotainment touchscreen under one seamless glass housing. This stunning visual centerpiece runs on the latest iDrive 8.5 operating system.
iDrive 8.5 offers a revamped user interface, focusing on ease of access to frequently used features. BMW calls this the "QuickSelect" principle. Instead of diving deep into submenus, key functions like navigation, media, and communication are readily available on the home screen. This refinement improves user interaction significantly compared to the initial versions of iDrive 8.
Furthermore, the system is blazing fast, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto beautifully. Even those resistant to touchscreens will appreciate that BMW wisely retained the physical iDrive controller on the center console, providing redundancy and familiarity.
Luxury Comfort: Materials and Space
Comfort levels in the X5 M60i are exceptional. The standard M multi-contour seats provide excellent support for spirited driving while remaining supremely comfortable on long journeys. Premium options like ventilated seats, massage function, and heated armrests truly complete the luxury experience.
The rear seats are spacious enough for three adults on shorter trips, and two adults will find ample legroom and headroom. As a mid-size SUV, the X5 offers practical storage, too. The standard split power tailgate makes loading and unloading easy, and with the rear seats folded, you unlock nearly 72.3 cubic feet of storage capacity.
In summary, the 2024 M60i's interior is a masterpiece of modern luxury, perfectly blending the high-tech digital experience with traditional high-quality materials.
Pricing and Competition
The 2024 BMW X5 M60i comes with a starting MSRP typically in the mid-$90,000 range, placing it firmly in the high-performance luxury SUV segment. While this is a substantial price tag, you are receiving M Performance tuning, V8 power, and state-of-the-art technology as standard.
The X5 M60i competes directly with other heavy-hitting performance SUVs. How does it stack up against its rivals? Let's consider the main competitors:
- **Porsche Cayenne S:** Offers sharper handling but often requires heavy optioning to match the X5's standard features and technology.
- **Mercedes-AMG GLE 53:** Uses an inline-six engine (though powerful), which lacks the sheer brute force and sound of the BMW's V8.
- **Audi SQ7:** A formidable competitor offering a potent V8 and three rows, but the BMW generally offers a more engaging and modern driving experience after the LCI update.
Crucially, the X5 M60i's newly electrified S68 V8 offers superior efficiency and smoother operation compared to non-hybridized rivals, giving it a slight technological edge in this crowded class.
Conclusion: Is the 2024 Bmw X5 M60I the SUV for You?
After a thorough dive in this 2024 Bmw X5 M60I Review, the answer is a resounding yes—if you seek uncompromised performance and luxury. The 2024 LCI updates have successfully modernized the X5, making it competitive against its rivals for years to come.
From the immediate thrust of the new S68 mild-hybrid V8 to the stunning, futuristic appeal of the Curved Display and iDrive 8.5, the M60i is a masterclass in blending utility with exhilaration. It provides the space and comfort needed for family duties yet transforms into a thrilling sport sedan when the mood strikes.
The X5 M60i is more than just a warmed-over SUV; it's a perfectly executed performance machine that truly earns its M designation. If you are shopping in this segment, make sure this exceptional BMW is at the very top of your test-drive list.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What engine powers the 2024 BMW X5 M60i?
- The 2024 X5 M60i is powered by the new S68 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, which features a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, delivering 523 horsepower.
- What is the top speed of the 2024 X5 M60i?
- The top speed is electronically limited to 130 mph or 155 mph when equipped with the optional performance tire package.
- Does the 2024 Bmw X5 M60I Review cover the three-row option?
- The X5 M60i is primarily a five-seater. While some lower trims of the X5 historically offered an optional third row, the M60i is geared towards performance and comfort for the first two rows.
- What are the key changes in the interior for 2024?
- The main interior change is the implementation of the BMW Curved Display, which houses the 12.3-inch gauge cluster and 14.9-inch infotainment screen running the latest iDrive 8.5 software.
2024 Bmw X5 M60I Review
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