The BMW X6 comes in three different basic trims, each with their own drivetrain configuration. At the bottom is the X6 sDrive40i, powered by a 3.0L turbocharged inline 6-cylinder making 335 horsepower which is sent to the rear wheels via an 8-speed automatic, the only transmission available. The next step up is the X6 xDrive40i, powered by the same 3.0L engine as the sDrive40i but with power sent to all-four, rather than just the rear wheels. At the top of the line is the X6 M50i which uses a 4.4L twin-turbo V8. Power is rated at 523 for the M50i and all-wheel drive is standard. BMW claims that 0-60 times range from just 5.3 seconds for the xDrive40i, all the way down to 4.1 seconds with the M50i. So no matter which X6 buyers opt for, the vehicle will be seriously quick.
The sDrive40i and xDrive40i can be optioned with one of two packages, which will determine the look of the car. By default X6's come with the xLine, which gives the vehicle a rugged, off-road like appearance. By contrast, opting for the M Sport appearance line gives owners body-colored fender flares, a sportier front fascia, lower suspension a sport exhaust, an M steering wheel and more aggressive wheels.
Standard features on the base sDrive40i include heated front seats, a moonroof, Apple CarPlay, Comfort Access keyless entry, a digital instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch digital display in the center console and BMW's Active Driving Assistant which includes blind spot detection, lane departure warning, rear, frontal and pedestrian warning systems, cross-traffic alert and speed limit information. For drivers who want even more convenience, a more advanced Driving Assistance Professional Package includes an active cruise control system with stop and go tech as well as a lane keeping assistant which will keep the vehicle in its lane on the highway without any steering interference.
The top of the line M50i trim comes with 20-inch wheels, Vernasca Leather upholstery, a 464-watt Harman/Kardon sound system, 20-way power adjustable front seats, 4-zone climate control, wireless charging and a Wifi Hotspot. There is no xLine available on the M50i as all versions of the vehicle look lower and sportier thanks to more aggressive suspension settings and body colored fender flares.
Traditional Crossover Practicality Combined With Swoopy, Coupe-like Styling
Available All-wheel Drive
Powerful Engine Options
Great Handling
Luxury And Technology
The X6 returns for its third generation with the 2020 model. The X6 has always been about merging the space and utility of a crossover vehicle with the styling, handling and extroverted nature of a sports coupe. This newest generation marries those concepts better than ever before with bold new styling, powerful engines and the kind of performance one would expect from a much less practical vehicle. Option the X6 correctly though and it'll tow up to 7200 lbs while carrying two rows of occupants in absolute comfort.
The X6 wears its extroverted nature with bold, menacing styling and a stout stance. Despite the BMW pedigree, extensive standard equipment list and luxurious appointments it's value for the price may surprise some. The X6's base price is just over $64,000, making it significantly cheaper than the Mercedes GLE Coupe, which starts at over $71,000. The Audi Q8 also costs more with a base price of over $68,000.
