2015 BMW X5 M and X6 M | new car sales price

BMW's X5 M and X6 M super SUVs return with boosted performance and efficiency.

If you're after a car with M3 performance, but are deterred by its lack of ground clearance, BMW has two answers for you.

BMW's ballistic X5 M and X6 M SUV twins will return to Australian shores in the second quarter of this year with supercar-rivalling performance.

Both the conventionally-shaped X5 M and its X6 M coupe-bodied sibling will be more expensive than their predecessors, but squeeze more performance and efficiency from their updated hardware.

Both squeeze more performance and efficiency from their updated hardware.

Priced from $185,900, the X5 M is $2200 dearer than the model it replaces, while the X6 M carries a $4125 premium over its predecessor at $194,700.

Both cars are powered by a development of the 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 used by the outgoing models, plus the M5 and M6 models, but with outputs boosted by 15kW and 70Nm to 423kW and 750Nm - enough to get these near 2.3 ton SUVs to 100km/h in 4.2 seconds.

The only SUV to go quicker is the Porsche Cayenne Turbo S, which is expected to cost at least $50,000 more than these two Beemers - and only be 0.1 seconds quicker to 100km/h.

Despite the extra power and performance, the new models are around 20 per cent more fuel efficient than their predecessors, capable of achieving 11.1L/100km combined. Like the old X5 and X6 M, the new models use a continuously variable xDrive all-wheel drive system, paired with an M-specific eight-speed automatic transmission with launch control.

Both models also score upgraded suspension setups, with 10mm lower and stiffer springs, three-mode adaptive dampers and active anti-roll bars. Wheels are 21-inch M-specific items wrapped in 285mm front and enormous 325mm rear tyres, which hide upgraded brakes with six-piston front callipers.

BMW doesn't reveal Nurburgring lap times, but admit that these two ballistic behemoths can match the previous generation E92 M3 coupe's time of 8:05.

The standard X5 and X6 styling has also been given the M treatment with an agressive front bumper featuring additional cooling vents to feed the ten radiators tasked with keeping these performance SUV heroes cool.

At the rear there's a redesigned bumper with integrated diffuser and quad exhaust tips and both models wear a unique rear spoiler.

Both of the five-seat M SUV twins also feature unique sports bucket seats with M branding, carbon fibre trim pieces, and M-specific steering wheel with gearshift paddles.