“I would explain the combi high level of performance, luxury and style with great comfort. At this level however it remains a very personal choice.”
2020 BMW X5 M: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for 2020 is the return of the BMW X5 M as an all-new third-generation model after BMW skipped the 2019 model year in the U.S. It moves to the newer X5 platform and adds a more powerful Competition trim.
About the 2020 BMW X5 M
3rd gen (F95), first year
BMW positions the X5 M as a high-performance luxury SUV that mixes track-capable engineering with everyday family usefulness. The key idea is big twin-turbo V8 power, sharp handling for an SUV, all-wheel-drive traction, and a premium five-seat cabin with modern displays and driver-assistance tech. It stands apart from many rivals by leaning harder into driver involvement while still offering real cargo space and daily comfort.
The standard X5 M is a high-performance luxury SUV with a 600-hp twin-turbo V8, AWD, adaptive suspension, and a cabin built around two 12.3-inch displays. The new Competition trim is the more aggressive version, raising output to 617 hp and adding an M Sport exhaust, Full Merino leather, black exterior trim, and a track-focused display mode.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
The new-generation X5 M uses a twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8, an eight-speed automatic transmission, and M xDrive AWD. The standard model makes 600 hp, while the new Competition trim raises output to 617 hp and adds an M Sport exhaust.
Structural
The X5 M moves to the newer X5 platform with a redesigned chassis. Adaptive M suspension and Active Roll Stabilization are standard across the lineup.
Styling
The cabin is redesigned for the third generation. The Competition trim also adds black exterior accents and Full Merino leather.
Tech
A new digital cockpit is standard, with a 12.3-inch instrument display, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, navigation, the iDrive 7 interface, Apple CarPlay, and a head-up display.
Safety
Standard assistance and parking equipment includes Active Driving Assistant, Parking Assistant Plus, Back-Up Assistant, and a surround-view camera.
2020 BMW X5 M specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, Twin Turbo, 4.4 Liter | V8, Twin Turbo, 4.4 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 8-Spd M Sport w/Drivelogic, Sport & Manual Modes | Automatic, 8-Spd M Sport w/Drivelogic, Sport & Manual Modes |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 13 mpg | 13 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 18 mpg | 18 mpg |
| Horsepower | 600 hp | 617 hp |
| Torque | 553 lb-ft | 553 lb-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 37.4 in | 37.4 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||
| Automatic High Beams | ||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||
| Park Assist | ||
| 360 Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| LED Headlights | ||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||
| Roof Rails | ||
| Head-Up Display | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||
| Remote Start | ||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||
| Wood Interior Trim | ||
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2020 BMW X5 M a new generation?
Yes. The 2020 BMW X5 M begins the third generation and moves to the newer X5 platform with a redesigned chassis, a more digital cabin, and updated performance hardware.
Was there a 2019 BMW X5 M in the U.S.?
No. BMW skipped the 2019 X5 M model year in the U.S., then brought the model back for 2020 as an all-new third-generation vehicle.
What is the difference between the 2020 X5 M and X5 M Competition?
The 2020 X5 M Competition is the more aggressive trim. It has 617 hp instead of 600 hp, plus an M Sport exhaust, Full Merino leather, black exterior trim, and a track-focused display mode.
What engine does the 2020 BMW X5 M use?
The 2020 BMW X5 M uses a twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and AWD. It produces 600 hp in the standard model and 617 hp in the Competition trim.
What cabin technology changed for the 2020 BMW X5 M?
The 2020 redesign brings a fully digital cockpit with a 12.3-inch instrument display and a 12.3-inch touchscreen. Navigation, iDrive 7, Apple CarPlay, and a head-up display are standard.
2020 BMW X5 M Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2020 BMW X5 M.
4.4
2020 BMW X5 M
(8 reviews)
“Cup holders are in a terrible location - they block smart phone charger and key card usage (what were you guys thinking??) Auto hold button is terrible - have to deep press the inner corner.”
“The design, execution and use of the ventilated fronts seats is poor. Very dissenting. Will never select a BMW w/this garbage option.”