BMW X6 more-expensive mutation of the BMW X5.
Overview
To hear BMW tell it, the X6 combines the presence of an X5 with the sporty elegance of a coupe. The X6 does indeed have the presence of the X5, on which it is based. It is similarly sized, offers the same up-high seating position, and comes with 4-wheel drive. As for sporty elegance, it’s an anybody’s choice . Undeniably, the X6 is heavily restyled compared to its more conventionally shaped sibling, with a lower roofline and a more sloped hatchback. Those changes make for reduced interior volume. The X6 was designed as a 4-seater, although now it can be had with a 5th set of seatbelts. The squashed roofline and the high beltline makes X6 hard to see out of; the backup camera and available blind-spot assist are essentials. The X6 handles less like a tall, heavy SUV and more like a sport sedan; its sophisticated all-wheel-drive system can send power not only from front to rear but also from side to side to aid cornering. The downside is a fairly stiff ride. The base 300-hp, 3.0-liter 6 is turbocharged. The 4.4-liter V-8, also turbocharged, adds 100 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque.
The Range
Drive: 4-wheel
Trim levels: xDrive35i, xDrive50i, X6 M
Body style: SUV/crossover, 4- or 5-passenger
Engines: 3.0L turbo I-6, 300 hp, 300 lb-ft
4.4L twin-turbo V-8, 400 hp, 450 lb-ft
4.4L twin-turbo V-8, 555 hp, 500 lb-ft
Transmissions: 7- or 8-speed automatic
Passenger volume: 97.7 cu ft
Capacities: Towing 6000 lb; cargo (rear seats up/down) 25.6/59.7 cu ft
What’s New
Most of the changes to the X6 for 2012 have to do with the standard and optional equipment. An iPod/USB adapter, lumbar support, ambient lighting, privacy glass, auto-dimming mirrors, and heated front seats. The X6 can be personalized with the package, which includes richer leather, specific interior trims, and unique interior and exterior colors.
Safety
Front, side, and side curtain air bags; front-seat active head restraints; traction and stability control; ABS with panic assistance; adaptive brake lights; and xenon adaptive headlights are standard. Rearview and sideview cameras are available. BMW Assist, with automated crash response, is standard.
EPA Fuel Economy
All: 12-16 mpg city/17-23 mpg highway
You’ll Like
- Plush interior
- Fast — particularly the M
- Handling belies size/weight
You Won’t Like
- Space is much smaller then X5
- Difficult to see out of
- Price doesn’t go with X5
Sum Up
BMW X6 more-expensive mutation of the BMW X5.
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