The BMW X6 is a four-door luxury performance SUV. Powered by a range of six- and eight-cylinder engines, it ranges from capable to brutally powerful. Introduced in 2008, the X6 is a new take on the combination of coupe and SUV body styles. Primary competition for the X6 includes the Land Rover Range Rover Sport, Porsche Cayenne, and Infini FX range. Priced to start from $56,500-$67,200 for the standard models, $88,900 for the hybrid version and $89,000 for the X6 M, the X6 spans a wide range of available configurations.
The 2008 BMW X6 was available in xDrive35i and xDrive50i trims with a choice of an inline six-cylinder twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter engine rated at 300 horsepower or a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V-8 engine rated at 400 horsepower, respectively. BMW calls the X6 a "sports activity vehicle," seeking to distinguish it from the more typical sports utility vehicle, or SUV. Its characteristic sloping coupe-like roofline, tall stance, and four-seat layout further blur the line between traditional SUV and luxury sports sedan. It shares much of its underpinnings with the BMW X5, but due to its shape, doesn't offer as much cargo space. It nevertheless remains a fairly competent off-roader thanks to its all-wheel drive system, though true trail-worthiness remains out of its reach. A six-speed automatic transmission was the only option for 2008-2010 models of any trim or engine package, paired to BMW's xDrive all-wheel drive system.
Subsequent model years saw the introduction of the X6 M in 2009, which turns up the power on the twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V-8 to 555 horsepower. Upgraded suspension, larger wheels and tires, more capable brakes and advanced performance-tuned traction and handling electronics combine to make an impressive performance vehicle despite its size and weight. For the 2010 model year, the ActiveHybrid X6 offers a combination of power and efficiency that errs on the side of performance. Rated at 480 horsepower, it's an upgrade of 80 horsepower over the standard V-8 X6, yet delivers one more mpg on the highway.
Upgrades for the 2011 model year saw the introduction of a new entry-level six-cylinder engine that goes to a single-turbo, twin-scroll configuration with direct injection that maintained the same performance levels as the previous twin-turbo engine while reducing complexity and cost. Also on the docket for the 2011 model was a three-passenger rear seat option, which increased the X6's capacity to five in total from the prior four-seat configuration. An eight-speed transmission became standard equipment for all but the X6 M, which retained its robust six-speed drivetrain. The new transmission promised smoother shifting and better efficiency.
The X6 returns for the 2012 model year, though the ActiveHybrid model has been dropped. With a coupe-like profile above the waistline, comfortable seating, high-quality materials and fitment and more high-tech options and features than you can shake a stick at, the X6 has a lot of appeal. On the other hand, the X6 requires premium fuel, can get pricey when loaded with options, and features bulky truck-like styling below the waistline--elements which can turn off some buyers.
None of the X6 family are particularly efficient, however, rating between 15/21 mpg city/highway for the 2010 xDrive35i, 13/18 mpg for the xDrive50i, and a thirsty 12/17 mpg rating for the X6 M
