Overview & Reviews

BMW likes to call its X6 a "Sports Activity Coupe," but perhaps "fastback SUV" would be a more appropriate description. Based on the previous-generation BMW X5, this four-door midsize crossover has a dramatically downward-sloping roof line, evoking the timeless profiles of classic fastback coupes (or, less charitably, the Pontiac Aztek). Not surprisingly, style trumps utility here, as the X6 offers limited rear headroom and cargo volume.

For the overtly style-conscious, these shortcomings will likely be of little consequence. BMW has given the X6 a potent range of engines and handling abilities that far exceed expectations. As a utility vehicle, the X6 obviously falls short -- but as a high-riding performance "coupe" with room for four adults, it continues to hold a quirky sort of appeal.

Current BMW X6
The BMW X6 comes in two trim levels: xDrive 35i and xDrive50i. The xDrive35i's 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 pumps out 300 horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque, while the xDrive50i's 4.4-liter turbocharged V8 bristles with 400 hp and 450 lb-ft of torque. The sole transmission is an eight-speed automatic. If these specs leave you unimpressed, you may want to check out the completely absurd X6 M, which is discussed in a separate review.

All X6 models are equipped with all-wheel drive and a trick torque distribution system called Dynamic Performance Control. This system apportions varying amounts of power to each wheel in order to maintain optimal traction and directional stability.

The xDrive35i comes standard with such luxuries as adaptive xenon headlights, a power liftgate, leather upholstery, power front seats, the iDrive electronics interface and a 10-speaker audio system. The xDrive50i ups the ante with a turbocharged V8, upgraded front seats and a navigation system. As with most BMWs, the options list is both extensive and pricey.

The X6's styling isn't for everyone, but it manages to set itself apart with the fastback roof line, huge wheels and other sporty styling cues. Inside, the BMW X6 boasts comfortable seats, an excellent driving position and high-quality materials, though the control layout can be befuddling. Rear dimensions are compromised because of the low sloping roof line, but two adults will be happy in back -- provided they aren't unusually long of torso. Should you need to carry another person, an optional three-place bench can be specified instead of the standard two-seat layout. Cargo capacity, while adequate, is considerably below average for the midsize crossover SUV segment.

In reviews, our editors have lauded the X6's sprightly performance, especially in xDrive50i trim. BMW claims the latter can accelerate from zero to 60 in just over 5 seconds, making it one of the fleetest SUVs on the road. The V8's throaty exhaust burble belies its sophisticated turbocharged character. In either trim, the X6 handles extraordinarily well for such a tall and heavy vehicle. It's worth noting, however, that the more versatile X5 crossover offers most of the X6's performance for thousands less.

Used BMW X6 Models
The BMW X6 was an all-new model for 2009. That first year had the older and fussier version of the iDrive electronics interface, and the transmission was a six-speed automatic for both 2009 and '10. For 2010 only, there was a performance upgrade option that cranked the six- and eight-cylinder engines' outputs up to 320 hp and 440 hp, respectively.

For 2011, the xDrive35i received a new, more fuel-efficient turbocharged six-cylinder that made the same power as the previous version. The X6 was strictly a four-passenger vehicle until 2012, when a three-passenger seat option debuted. Mild exterior styling changes debuted for 2013, including standard LED taillights and optional LED headlights.

User Reviews:

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  Awesome Performance... Awesome Looks - 2009 BMW X6
  By Had to Have the X6! - September 7 - 6:24 pm

  By Far the BEST BMW I have driven yet... had two X5s and a 328ix. I got Black Sapphire on Black...loaded...The X6 3.5i has lots of power, is good looking (a real head turner), rides like a car, sportiness of a coupe, and utility of an SUV. Quality build, quality ride and a really fun to drive! Get one....its worth it!

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  BWM X6 35i - 2009 BMW X6
  By Joe D, PA - September 5 - 6:48 am

  Between my wife and I, we have owned every BMW except a Z and this vehicle is by far the most fun to drive. Love the space and neat style. One friend after seeing it called it the batmobile. Just picked it up yesterday and cant wait to go for a ride today. I cant image how fast the 50i must be.

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  Great Whatever it is - 2009 BMW X6
  By Don - August 25 - 3:36 pm

  Love the X6 - I think its worth the extra $$ for the V8 - plus residuals are better and the money factors were too. Only wishes would be: 1. Manual transmission Option (Are you listening BMW!!) 2. 5th seat - middle seat in back, and 3. Handles above seats. I know its supposed to be a "coupe" but cmon, we need handles. I get more "stares" in this rig than I did in my M6 convertible. It surprisingly also feels faster than that vehicle. Fun car/SUV, whatever it is I love it.

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  Great Car - Eats Gas - 2009 BMW X6
  By KCnSprock2 - July 29 - 11:30 pm

  Handles really well and is extremely comfortable, with room for kids, dog and luggage. Great family car with a lot more sport than an SUV, previously had an X5 and this blows the X5 away. Downside is that it eats gas voraciously. Highly recommend for low mileage driver - not an everyday commuter car unless you like supporting the local gas station.

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  Great All-Around Vehicle - 2009 BMW X6
  By mking - July 29 - 12:33 pm

  After 2 months and 2,000 miles I can say that this is the most exciting BMW I have owned. The last two were sedans that drove great. But, didnt have that extra factor that makes a car unique. The X6 has that factor. Incredible road manners, great aspect from all seating positions, incredible comfort and the best build quality in years for BMW.

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  X6 3.5i and 5.0i Sport - 2009 BMW X6
  By CARDEALER - June 26 - 4:30 am

  As owner of a car dealership I have the advantage of driving everything available in South Africa. So we owned a Q7 and a Range Rover Sport amongst others. We own a 2008 X6 3.5i sport and loved the driving comfort, handling and general driving pleasure so much that I just bought myself a X6 5.0i sport. For me, being a lover of sport cars, this is the real deal. Its like owning a sports car on steroids. We agree out of all cars we enjoy these two cars the most! So, wife drives one and I drive one, because not much else appeals so much. So, no matter what people say about the looks, fuel consumption and so on, go drive the thing and you will be hooked too. Happy driving!

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  Lovin it - 2009 BMW X6
  By Riccio - June 8 - 6:08 pm

  Wanted to get up higher in traffic for visibility so went looking at crossovers and SUVs. Test drove the X5 and the X6. NO CONTEST. The X6 has sedan like handling characteristics and had better performance. There really IS a difference between the X5s 3.0i and the X6s 3.5i.

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  Awesome for Foursome - 2008 BMW X6
  By 50nesto - May 18 - 3:06 pm

  Got every available option on my X6, and I am loving it! Dont confuse this car with an SUV it is a Sports Activity Coupe with room for any foursome (golf, tennis, skiing, or dating)and all the accompanying equipment (clubs, rackets, skis, and luggage). My grandson can even watch movies in the back seat! Just got mine back from BMW Collision after rear ending a Cadillac sedan. Awesome collision safety behavior from the car with only frontal damage while the Cadillac regretfully was demolished. The repair by BMW looks amazing!

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  Not a "me too" SUV - 2009 BMW X6
  By Happy Commuter - April 23 - 8:44 pm

  Wanted to get into an SUV, but not one that looked like all the others. Even the X5 reminds me of a Ford Explorer. The X6 fits the bill in every way. Fun to drive, great to look at, and plenty of room to haul home swap meet and mall purchases.

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  Real Excitement - 2009 BMW X6
  By Metin Kaska - March 22 - 6:51 pm

  I waited for one year to upgrade my car X5 to X6. We drive long distance at the weekends. We had very good time with our X5. But driving a X6 is a Real Excitement. Our car is xDrive 35d which has 6 cylinders-turbo charged diesel engine delivering 293 HP. I drive very comfortable and feeling very secure with this car due to its safety features and control systems. we like its outer design which is different than regular cars. It also has an excellent interior design. Bottom line, it was worth waiting for a year.