[masmole]

It’s not just software. The upcoming 2020 M50i versions of the X5 and X7 will be getting the 850i engine. Although both engines fall under the same N63TU3 engine code, more specifically, the current X5’s and X7’s is actually the N63B44M3 while the 850i uses the N63B44T3.

As documented in this article, the more powerful N63B44T3 adds high-pressure 5,000 PSI fuel injection, enlarged twin-scroll turbochargers, a redeveloped intake manifold and an additional upstream radiator, compared to less powerful the N63B44M3. The 2020 X5 and X7 M50i are expected to get the N63B44T3 engine.

That said, I’m sure it won’t be difficult for tuners to simply increase boost via software to essentially accomplish similar power and torque figures, if not more, at the expense of a little reliability and efficiency without the aid of the improved hardware upgrades.