The BMW X6 is the original sports coupe, and almost fifteen years after its first appearance, the German automaker can confidently say that its controversial concept has proven to be a commercial success.
Suffice it to say that even Mercedes (GLE Coupe) copied it, not to mention other, less famous manufacturers. The auto industry insiders from the Indy Auto Man dealership note that the new X6 has received numerous updates to keep up with fashion trends and remain competitive. This applies to design elements, the latest curved display, and hybrid support for engines. And while the X3 competes with the Audi Q5 for a wider audience, the X6 continues to target a much smaller circle of enthusiasts looking for something more original and distinctive.
Appearance
A new M Sport package and slimmer headlights with daytime running lights inside are the core updates made to the exterior. The sloping roofline remains the same and slowly slopes down to the tailgate with very wide taillights, a variation on the L-shaped design used on various BMW models over the years. The M60i version features a double radiator grille, an exhaust system with four pipes, and a black spoiler that adds aggressiveness to the model.
Dimensions
The dimensions of the new X6 remain almost the same. Its dimensions are 195/78.9/66.9 inches, and its wheelbase is 117.1 inches. The ground clearance is 8.5 in., more than that of a regular sedan, but despite this and the base all-wheel drive, off-road driving is best left to the guys from Jeep or Subaru. At 6,768 lbs (xDrive40i), the new X6 is heavier than the outgoing model.
Engines and power
The base X6 engine gets a welcome boost in power. The previous 3.0-liter turbocharged 6-cylinder engine remains in place, but its performance improved thanks to the latest generation hybrid. The eight-speed automatic transmission is integrated with a 12-hp electric unit with 146 lb-ft of torque. This combination provides 375 horsepower with 383 lb-ft of torque, overcoming its predecessor by 40 hp. Thanks to the hybrid system, the maximum combined torque can briefly increase to 398 lb-ft, accelerating the xDrive all-wheel drive version to sixty in 5.2 sec and reaching a top speed of 155 mph. The 48-volt battery powers the mild-hybrid system, improving start/stop precision and coasting. The M60i xDrive uses an upgraded 4.4-liter turbocharged V8 ( 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque). However, combined with a 48-volt mild hybrid and an eight-speed automatic transmission, the M60i’s output remains almost the same as the old M50i (530 hp). Like the new X5, with the same engine, it takes just 4.2 seconds to reach 60 mph. In addition, the M60i now comes standard with Active Steering. It allows the rear wheels of the X6 to steer in the same or opposite direction as the front ones, improving agility and reducing the turning radius. The company says this system helps the driver to change lanes more confidently and at higher speeds. The M60i comes with an M Sport differential and brakes.
Interior and trunk
Like the new 3 Series, the BMW X6’s interior combines the instrument panel and infotainment screen into a single unit known as the Curved Display. It has a 14.9-inch touch interface and a 12.3-inch digital driver display, running the BMW 8 operating system. This design looks very modern, and several physical buttons are convenient while driving. The X6’s interior has been updated impressively with several features, such as ambient and pedal lighting. The luxurious and comfortable seats of the X6 have not surprised anyone for a long time, but in the 2024 upgrade, they are trimmed with Sensafin eco-leather with stylish perforations, repeated in the second row. In addition, owners can add ventilation and massage to the standard heated front seats.
Other useful features include automatic climate control, a panoramic roof, a parking assistant, wireless charging, and eSIM with 5G connectivity. As part of the Professional Driver Assistance package, the X6 features an assistant for hands-free driving at speeds up to 80 mph. The manufacturer also improved the parking assistance technology. Now, the car is able not only to record and store complex maneuvers and park itself but also to carry out parking commands received from the smartphone of the owner standing next to it. What’s more, BMW’s Intelligent Assistant is so advanced that it can make suggestions based on learning your behavior and preferences. Another cutting-edge element is the Digital Key Plus system (compatible with iOS and Android), which eliminates the need to carry a key and automatically unlocks the car when the driver approaches. The load capacity is 27.4 cubic feet (with the seats folded down), less than a traditional X5 body but still quite generous. With the second row folded, 60 cubic feet are already formed in the trunk.
Competitors
The 2024 BMW X6 has several competitors, the Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe being the main one. It costs more than the base X6 and has 429 hp. Other competitors include the Porsche Cayenne Coupe and AUDI Q8, so buyers will have plenty to choose from in the new year.