Our spy photographers just caught the X5 M undergoing a bit of snow testing as BMW readies the sports-SUV for launch. The light camouflage indicates that this X5 keeps true to its "M" badge, sporting quad exhaust pipes, massive air inlets on the front bumper and vents in the front fenders.
There aren't too many concrete details on the mechanical pieces at the moment, but many reports point to a tuned version of BMW's 4.4L twin-turbo V-8 found in the X6. But regardless of cylinder count, expect an output somewhere north of 500 hp transmitted through an automatic transmission to an all-wheel-drive system. Also anticipate beefier brakes, stiffer suspension and a robust tire package.
Not too long ago, BMW released videos of the X5 and X6 M-variants undergoing testing as a promotional tool for the "M" brand. Check the X5 video here, and the X6 video here .
BMW plans to launch the X5 M soon; perhaps as soon as the Geneva auto show in March. The X6 M should arrive shortly thereafter.
Click here to see more photos of the BMW X5 M!