The SUV Cross dresser
It is often stated that beauty is in the eyes of the beholder, this also rings true for cars. However, as with any car their driving, handling and performance among other things are key considerations. The BMW X6 is a car that splits opinions like no other car has in recent times.
Some considered this an abomination especially after the trend setter that was the X5. Critics expected BMW to improve the X5, not create something as radical as the X6. Then again BMW are not known for conforming to a set standard. Instead they are always striving to push the limits in terms of inventing cars that are seemingly unique.
Conception
The X6 launched as a concept at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show as a new class of car (so called Sports Activity Coupe) but it was not a direct replacement for the X5, given its unique shape and limited off road capability. The production version was launched at the 2008 Detroit Motor show.
Engineered crossover
The X6 is powered by a number of engines that are typical BMW affairs from petrol to diesel units, as well as the famed M powered version. The entry level petrol engine consists of an inline, six cylinder, 3litre unit producing 225kw and 400Nm of torque. It does 0-60 in 6.7seconds and has a top speed 150 mph. The next petrol is the 4.4litre V8 producing 402HP and 600Nm of torque, 0-60 is completed in 5.4seconds and top speed is limited at 155 mph.
The top rated X6M is fitted with a 4.4 litre V8 with 555HP, and a huge 680Nm of torque, 0-60 is over in 4.7seconds and top speed is limited to 155 mph. Rounding off the petrols is the hybrid version V8 also a 4.4litre unit producing 485HP and an astronomical 780Nm of torque, 0-60 is done in 5.6seconds and top speed is limited to 155 mph.
The gas burners are all 3litre inline six units that utilise BMW’s world renowned twin turbo charger units. First up is the 30d producing 232HP and torque of 520Nm, 0-60 is done in 8seconds and top speed is 135 mph. Next up is the 35d producing 280HP and 580Nm of torque, 0-60 is done in 6.9seconds with top speed rated at 140 mph. Lastly is the 40d producing 300HP and 600Nm of torque, 0-60 is done in 6.5 seconds with top speed rated at 150 mph.
The transmission comes in the form of BMW’s 6 speed automatic (the ActiveHybridX6 gets an 8 speed automatic gearbox). All engines are fitted with the marquee’s xDrive four wheel drive system as standard.
Cross-dressing exterior
The X6 is a combination of an SUV and a coupe; the afro mentioned Sports Active Coupe. It is slightly longer and wider than the X5 but with a lower ride height. The traditional Bavarian styling is present. The trademark of the marquee the gaping kidney grille looks ever so menacing on this car. The large tapering headlamps and squatting stance all add to the overall design that was being envisioned out by the designers.
The side profile gives the illusion of two cars in one; the front is an X5 variant whilst the rear with its sharply sloping roof is very coupe like. The rear resembles a BMW 5 series but with a raised ride height. The flanks bulge and provide a much accentuated look to the styling. It definitely looks like the product of a furious mating between an X5 and a 5 series.
Image credit: photo
Cross-dressed Interior
The Bavarian manufacturer builds solid interiors and the X6 gets the same treatment. The quality of the finish is up to the high standards expected of the Germans. There is use of leather and wood trims that are expertly fitted in all panels. This adds to the overall quality and luxury of the interior. An interesting feature is the glove compartment which splits in two offering a unique way to access the items inside.
The steering is a standard BMW affair with control buttons for both hands free and audio control. The centre console is borrowed from other BMW line-ups. The screen consists of a large 7inch touch screen that displays all relevant information including BMW’s iDrive system.
The leather seats offer comfort and styling expected of this car. It seats four with an optional five person arrangement introduced in 2011. The space at the rear may prove a little cramped for those with longer limbs because of the sloping roof which robs the headroom. Other features include standard BMW options including, full heated seats, four zone climate control and rear entertainment screens.
Cross-dressing Technology
The love it or hate it iDrive system is borrowed from the X5 and offers a variety of driving options found in the BMW stable. The X6 offers four driving modes from the relaxed Comfort mode to the racer like Sport Plus mode. The drive modes adjust dampers, steering wheel response and torque split to suit the driver’s mood.
Cross-dressing Off roader
BMW are known for pushing boundaries in vehicle technology and design. Their penchant for innovation gives them a love or hate appeal. This was seen with the redesign of the 7 series and now it is witnessed in the X6. The quality of the final product however is never in doubt.
The fact that people are purchasing this car in adequate numbers means that the marquee has gotten something right. Well for the price of between £46,000 and £82,000 it is definitely not for everyone throw in the styling and you can see why this car divides opinions.
Then again BMW are never a conservative bunch and that is just who they are. For limited off road capability the X6 will more than cope. However the X6 is not suited for extended exploration of the great outdoors. The X5 is still the best choice for off road frolicking. This car was made for those who desire to be different and it has definitely achieved that reputation.