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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  BMW Owner since 2000. - 2016 BMW X6
  By FRANCIS YOGI - July 2 - 8:22 am

  Outstanding BMW performance; Exceptional styling;

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  This "Aint" Your Daddys SUV! - 2016 BMW X6
  By B Hill - February 13 - 4:48 pm

  If you want an SUV by one, if you want a sports car buy one. If you are stuck somewhere in between and want the best of both worlds, the X6 M sport is the SAV for you! The genesis of the crossover revolution, all others are imitations.

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  2016 BMW X6 xDrive 35i Carbon Black Metallic - 2016 BMW X6
  By CD - January 1 - 8:49 am

  After owning and driving this car for almost one year here is my take on it. First let me say that I was sold on this car before the salesman pulled over to let me drive it purely based on how comfortable the upgraded seats were and how powerful it felt on the road. Quiet, powerful, and a very smooth acceleration. The 5.0 or M version is tempting, but really not necessary for me because this car gets out of its own way quickly. It seats five with ease, and unless you are over 65" the back seat is perfectly fine, and I have not had any problems filling up the rear with a ton of groceries. I own the M sport, loaded with options that are actually very easy to use and I usually do. The navigation screen is huge and clear. I like the sloping roof line and M sport molding much better than the X5 or any other similarly shaped SUV. Recently took a road trip (1800 miles) and it was extremely comfortable. I usually swap out my cars every 1-2 years, but I do believe I will hold on to this one for quite a while longer.

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  You have to live with it to really know... - 2016 BMW X6
  By Str8line - October 6 - 5:20 am

  Im a wagon guy. A utility guy. A lover of great handling, powerful cars. I spend my money on cars. To me the ultimate car for the money is a GTI, or maybe a truck if you want the ultimate in utility. But lets say you can afford to splurge on a luxury car... why would you get an X6? Well, first off I have a truck. And a sports car(911). And a wagon(BMW 530). But the wagon is getting older and it was time for a replacement. So naturally I got the X6M as the ultimate wagon. That was a little over a year ago and when it was time to get rid of my wifes third row SUV(Mercedes GL550) for something smaller she decided on... another X6! This time the six cylinder X35i. I was surprised. But this is a surprising vehicle. Dont believe what they say about its storage space, there is a ton, trust me. Like fill up two shopping carts at Costco and fold down the rear seats and watch the X6 swallow it all, space. Which brings me to the X5s cargo space. This is the same car as the X5, just without the tall rear, so in the x5 you really only gain the space above the cargo area where you would stack stuff, and then you cant see out the back window. If you have one vehicle that extra space in the x5 might be important, but if you have a truck or dont usually buy big items you wont miss it. As I said the X6 has a LOT of space in its own right. Also, dont believe what they say about the rear seat room. Im 6ft. tall and there is three inches of room above my head, and a large amount of legroom. The back seat is actually much more comfortable than the X5s which feels a little like a bench. Now for the good stuff... The X6 is an incredibly fun vehicle to drive. I have a 911. I have an X6M. I know fun. The 35i is a potent engine with great throttle response and a sublime transmission. The suspension is firm, never harsh and entices you to drive this thing like a race car. The brakes are stout. The steering is not 911 or X6M great but its pretty good and the really the only thing drive-wise they could improve in my opinion. The steering is too light but if youre not jumping out of a 911 or X6M or GTI or BRZ you might not realize that its not perfect. Want to go off-road? I drove an X3 through the off-road course at the BMW plant in South Carolina and trust me you can do a lot with the x-series BMWs. I go to Moab. I drive Jeeps on their gnarly routes. The X6 wont do that but dont underestimate its abilities off-road, it is very impressive. And the interior, oh my the interior. Wow, wow, wow. Gorgeous. Quality. Comfort. Perfection. The exterior? Well I like it. I dont love it like the 911 exterior, or a Ferrari. But it is different and there is something about this car that makes you take notice. I think its cool, if a bit quirky. As I said, you really have to live with this vehicle to realize how great it is. One pleasant surprise has been our MPG with the X6. We are averaging over 20MPG in mixed driving with lots of hills. Our old diesel Mercedes GL averaged 20 and we thought that was great. 20MPG for this sporty, gas vehicle is super impressive and I have heard of people getting over 30 MPG on the highway. So if you are looking for a versatile vehicle that drives fantastic and provides a lot of utility while being stylish and different check out the X6.