5. So, with the added practicality, the X5 costs more, right?
A. Nope, what a ripoff.
B. I’m not worried about the price.

Despite equal levels of refinement, technology and luxury, the X6 is positioned as the premium product and charges you extra for the dashing slope of the roof. For some, it won’t even matter that there is a price difference, and the X6M’s SUV ride height, ease of entry and exit, high seating position, dramatic styling and greater exclusivity are reason enough to preclude comparisons and cross-shopping, though the upcoming Mercedes-AMG GLE Coupe 63 will serve up another option in this niche soon enough.

Warranty:
4 years/80,000 km; 4 years/80,000 km powertrain; 12 years/unlimited distance corrosion perforation; 4 years/unlimited distance roadside assistance
Overall
4
Comfort
     
4/5
Performance
     
5/5
Fuel Economy
     
2/5
Interior
     
4.5/5
Exterior Styling
     
4.5/5

Anyone who does have a vestige of concern for value will immediately see the additional practicality for the same performance and less cost as an unequivocal win for the X5M. While I, personally, can identify with those that favour the X6M for its styling and intangible flair, the X5M is a devastatingly quick and rewardingly responsive performance vehicle for its two tons of metal and glass, and can serve as family rocket or barnstormer plaything when the mood strikes, so its overall utility is undeniable in this matchup.

Pricing: 2015 BMW X6M
Base Price: $108,200
Options: $13,000 (Carbon fibre trim – $500; smartphone integration – $600; night vision with pedestrian detection – $2,500; full Merino leather – $4,500; Bang & Olufsen sound system – $4,900)
Freight & PDI: $2,095
Price as Tested: $123,295

Overall
4
Comfort
     
4/5
Performance
     
5/5
Fuel Economy
     
2/5
Interior
     
5/5
Exterior Styling
     
4/5

Pricing: 2015 BMW X5M
Base Price: $105,900
Options: $13,100 (Premium Package: rear sunshades, ventilated M seats, blind spot detection, “Active Protection”, “Driving Assistant”, Surround View 360-degree parking cameras, satellite radio, alcantara roofliner, speed limit info – $7,500; ConnectedDrive with ARTTI package: real-time traffic info, internet, remote services – $500; smartphone integration – $600; full Merino leather – $4,500)
Freight & PDI: $2,095
Price as Tested: $121,095

Connect with Autos.ca