Cosmetic and feature updates aside, both performance SUVs now get a 48V mild-hybrid system paired with the 4.4-litre V8.

The country already has a bunch of performance SUVs which include the Audi RSQ8, the Porsche Cayenne Turbo and the Range Rover SVR. BMW has launched it to rival these SUVs in the country and at a price tag of Rs. 1.95 crore (ex-showroom India), the X5 M Competition, is truly a niche product.

In this edition of the carandbike Awards, the BMW X5 M had to compete with a range of performance-oriented SUVs like - Audi RSQ8, BMW X3 M and the Mercedes-Benz GLE AMG 53 Coupe.

The BMW X5 M Competition packs a 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 engine under the bonnet with 619 bhp and 750 Nm of peak torque, and offers supercar levels of performance with everyday practicality.

The new generation BMW X5 M will most likely feature the same engine option, but with a tuned up performance to live up to its M power.