BMW has announced that the new BMW X6 M will debut at the New York Auto Show. Appearing alongside the Z4 Roadster and the new 7-Series, the X6 M will try to lure the attention of the American marketplace at a time when automakers need to fiercely compete for every consumer.

BMW is keeping things as quiet as they can on the upcoming M crossover. We previously reported that the X6 M will probably come with a 550 horsepower V8 engine with twin-scroll turbos, information that was buried on the X6 M microsite. Displacement of the engine is likely in the mid-4-liter range. All-wheel drive is naturally expected on the crossover as well.

All the German automaker would say is that the “X6 M will utilize several new engine, drivetrain, and suspension technologies” to make the X6 a crossover truly worthy of the M-badge. Stay tuned… more on the BMW X6 M will hopefully be available before its 8 April debut at the New York International Auto Show.

Following months of spy shots, teaser videos and illustrations, BMW will finally take the wraps off its X6 M at this month’s New York Auto Show. Like other BMW M products, the X6 M promises some serious road and track performance.

Like BMW did with the announcement of its X5 M project, the German automaker previously released a teaser video of the high-performance ‘ute taking some hot laps at a closed track. If that wasn’t enough evidence, the side vents and quad exhaust seen on recent prototypes give away the true identity of this not-so-mild-mannered X6.

Built to compete with Porsche’s Cayenne Turbo, Mercedes-Benz’s ML63 AMG and other high-performance crossovers, the X6 M may very well be in a class of it’s own.

Although earlier rumors had the X6 M pegged for the same 5.0-liter V10 found in the M5 — or even a next-generation twin-turbo V10 — the performance minded ‘ute actually use a version of BMW’s latest twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8. Output is pegged at 550 horsepower.

Changes from the standard X6 will likely be subtle, but new side vents, BMW’s signature quad M exhaust outlets and a lower ride height should set this performance model apart from its lesser counterparts.

BMW is keeping mum on performance figures for the X6 M, but we’re expecting at least 500 horsepower to be on tap. The X6 M will still use an all-wheel drive system, although it will be tuned with a rear-wheel drive bias. BMW’s Dynamic Performance Control will also be part of the X6 M package, which should vastly reduce understeer.

Look for the X6 M to make its world debut at the New York show, with sales starting around mid-year 2009.

[source; worldcarfans.com ,leftlanenews.com]