BMW is taking its high performance M-Range into new territory with the launch of a pair of new Competition models fitted with a powerful new six-cylinder engine.

But don't let the name fool you, for although they're powerful beasts, these newcomers are very much designed for use on the road, not the track.

Based on the X3 M SUV and X4 M coupe, the Competition models have a newly-developed 510hp, three-litre in-line petrol engine with peak torque of 600Nm which delivers a 0-60mph time of a mere four seconds and a limited top speed of 155mph which can optionally be boosted to 174mph.

Both models get an eight-speed Steptronic transmission with three shift modes and BMW's latest xDrive all-wheel-drive system which is optimised to provide rear wheel drive with power to the front axle only kicking in when the back wheels start to lose traction.

Both cars are underpinned by a model-specific chassis featuring adaptive suspension with electronically controlled dampers.The basic damper set-up can be varied at the touch of a button with a choice of three modes - Comfort, Sport and Sport+ - while steering response can also be varied to match the chosen suspension settings.

Standard specification includes adaptive LED headlights, Merino leather-trimmed seats, the front of which are electrically-powered and heated seats with memory, Harman Kardon loudspeaker system, active protection , acoustic glazing , driving assistant and folding mirrors, head-up display and a 10.25inch infotainment display. Additionally, both Competition models come with 21-inch Bicolour wheels, an M Sport exhaust system, black kidney grilles and black tailpipe finishers.

Driver assistance systems include collision and pedestrian warning with city braking, rear cross traffic alert, rear collision prevention, lane change and lane departure warnings plus parking assistance with a rear view camera and distance control.

BMW dealers are taking orders now at prices starting from £77,070 for the X3 and £79,990 for the X4. First deliveries are expected in September.