2009 BMW X6 M at the 2009 New York Auto Show

• Competes with: Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG, Porsche Cayenne Turbo
• Looks like: SUV’s size won’t be as big a concern to others on the road as its speed will be
• Drivetrain: 555-hp, 4.4-liter twin-turbo V-8 with six-speed automatic; all-wheel drive
• Hits dealerships: Late 2009

Have you ever wanted a BMW M performance model, but also thirsted for all-wheel-drive capabilities? Well, the company has heard your cries: BMW just announced two new M models, the X6 M and X5 M. Both are the first M models to feature BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system, and they claim a zero-to-60-mph time of 4.5 seconds.

The X6 was already geared to be a more performance-minded SUV than the X5; we tested both the base and V-8 models on a track, and were blown away at their composure. The M version is lowered 10 centimeters and gains much more power (555 hp used to be reserved for supercars), bigger brakes and the selectable M mode option we first tested on the M3 last year.

The two M models get similar design treatments, but they differ from each model’s non-M version with augmented  hoods, headlights, front fenders, larger front air dams and 20-inch alloy wheels.

They’re definitely more menacing-looking, that’s for sure.

What will all this performance cost? Considering the V-8 version of the X6 starts at $66,500, we’d guess the M would be at least an additional $10,000. The X6 hasn’t sold all that well since its first two months on sale. However, speed freaks in need of something unique that can handle foul weather better than a rear-wheel-drive sports car or sedan may be intrigued. Of course, BMW could also offer an all-wheel-drive M3.

More photos below.