​BMW X6

BMW’s flagship sports activity coupé

Introduction

Whether or not BMW was the first to combine coupé style with SUV practicality, it’s undeniable they’ve set the pace since the first generation X6 back in 2007. This is the third generation, and it’s wider, lower and more distinctive than ever while offering a gratifying amount of space inside.​

Design

In platform and drivetrain the X6 is closely related to the X5 SUV, so as you’d expect design is the key difference between the two models. The X6 features the latest and biggest BMW kidney grille design and if you want you can opt for the illuminated ‘Iconic Glow’ grille. The latest X6 has a longer wheelbase and lower roof height than its predecessor, with the coupé roofline tapering all the way back to the tailgate’s duck-tail spoiler. The rear lights stretch almost the entire width of the car and the X6 side panels are concave to suggest lean muscularity before swelling out over the rear wheel arches. Inside, myriad interior colour options now include perforated Vernasca leather trim in Cognac/Black or Beige/Black combinations.

Performance

Technology and equipment

There are three trim levels, starting with Sport and progressing through M Sport to the two M50d/M50i models. Even in Sport trim the equipment levels are impressive; BMW Live Cockpit Professional is standard and includes a 12.3" touchscreen, the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant with ‘Hey BMW’ voice control, and the BMW Operating System 7.0. Also included as standard are the Connected Package Professional with real-time traffic information, navigation and Apple CarPlay. And there’s more…for example adaptive LED headlights, wireless smartphone charging, Bluetooth hands-free and Wi-Fi hotspot preparation.

Safety

The X6 protects occupants and other road users with some sophisticated technology. Collision and Pedestrian Warning with City Braking function alerts the driver when a cyclist is detected. The optional Driving Assistant Professional includes both the Steering and Lane Control Assistant with Traffic Jam Assistant as well as Lane Keeping Assistant with active side collision protection. With the steering and lane control assistant activated, simply push the indicator stalk in the required direction and the system will steer the car into the next lane safely. The built-in SIM card will automatically call the emergency services in the event of a major accident..

X6 SPORT

• Metallic paint
• 19” light alloys V-spoke style 734 (20" shown on model above)
• Steptronic Sport transmission
• Adaptive 2-axle suspension
• Loudspeaker system – BMW Advanced
• Electric front seats with driver memory
• Adaptive LED headlights
• Sport seats, heated for front passenger / driver
• High Beam Assist
• Parking Assistant
• Connected Package Professional

X6 M SPORT

In addition to Sport model:

• Optional Riverside Blue finish, exclusive to BMW X6
• 21” M light alloy wheels Y-spoke style 741 M Bicolour
• M Sport Braking system
• M Sport exhaust
• M Aerodynamic pack
• M Sport Steering wheel
• BMW Individual high-gloss Shadow Line
• BMW Individual headliner anthracite
• High-gloss black trims

X6 M PERFORMANCE

In addition to M Sport model:

• Manhattan paint finish, exclusive to BMW X6
• 22” M light alloy wheels V-spoke style 747 M Bicolour
• Cerium grey exterior elements
• M Sport differential
• Adaptive M suspension
• M seat belts
• Harman Kardon surround sound system

Verdict: Combining coupé style with SUV capability may seem counter intuitive, but it works. BMW’s X6 has all the visual drama of a sports car yet can ride today’s potholed roads with an ease that no low-slung exotic can muster. Inside, it concedes little to the X5 in either space or versatility. BMW’s flagship X6 ‘sports activity coupé’ is an inspired fusion of style, performance and functionality.