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Preview: BMW's Hot X6 Crossover Dec. 17, 2007 ) BMW's X6 crossover will hit showrooms this spring. Click on images for larger views.
The X6 combines the attributes of an SUV (high ground clearance, large wheels and tires) with those of a coupe (aggressive head-turning style, dramatic low-slung roof). Unlike a coupe, the X6 has four doors. But like a coupe, the X6 has just four sculpted seats. The X6 will make its official debut at Detroit's North American International Auto Show in a month (Autobahn Report will bring you complete photos from the show floor) before hitting dealerships in the spring. The X6 comes in two flavors — both deliciously bold, both twin-turbocharged and both direct-injected. The xDrive35i is powered by BMW's award-winning 3.0-liter 300-horsepower inline-six which also sees duty in the 1, 3 and 5 Series cars.
The top-line xDrive50i packs a new 4.4-liter V8 worth 400 horsepower and a robust 450 pound-feet of torque. The V8's turbos are uniquely nestled between the two cylinder banks for compact size and efficiency. Acceleration from zero to 60 MPH takes a brisk 5.3 seconds, BMW says. A six-speed automatic sport transmission is standard on both models, with steering-wheel paddles for shift-it-yourself fun. ) The xDrive50i's big news is under the hood: a new 400-horsepower twin-turbo V8. As the model designations suggest, BMW's xDrive all-wheel drive is standard.
Dynamic Performance Control is unique in that it is effective when the X6 is both accelerating and decelerating, so at any speed and under any road condition. DPC is likely needed for the big BMW to fulfill its sporting ambitions. Weight figures haven't been released yet but we suspect the X6 is pushing a hefty 5,000 pounds, considering all it has to offer and considering the X5 Sports Activity Vehicle — the X6's platform mate — weighs a minimum 4,982 pounds in base trim. DPC and other aids no doubt boost the X6's handling prowess in the twisties. ) A bold head-turning style and dramatic low-slung roof make the X6 stand out.
With DPC, DSC intervenes at a higher threshold and thus less often. BMW's Integrated Chassis Management oversees all systems, including optional active steering, and instantly makes adjustments. With all this technology, the X6 is one smart cookie. We've experienced some of these electronics at play, some often over the years, and they really do work. Now let's take a look at the X6's striking style. The rising belt line along with convex and concave surfaces give the impression of speed and agility. A short front overhang and longer rear overhang contribute to the dynamic wedge shape. An oversized double-kidney grille, with titanium slats on the xDrive50i and black slats on the xDrive35i, adorns the front along with large air scoops with foglights. Flaps behind the grille aid aerodynamics by closing when engine cooling isn't required. The closed flaps also help with cold-weather starting.
The side profile is both sporty and elegant — with windows trimmed by a chrome (xDrive50i) or black (xDrive35i) strip that becomes larger towards the rear, accentuating BMW's signature Hofmeister kink. It's difficult to miss the X6's large rear, as this is where all the character lines, including the long sloping roof, come together. The horizontal lines draw attention to the vehicle's sheer width. As with most BMWs, the headlights feature four corona rings while LED bars give the taillights a stylish night glow. Two-stage adaptive brake lights are also out back. Considering the sloping roof line, BMW says people and cargo space is plentiful. The latter is indeed cavernous with 25.6 cubic feet,
Choices, choices, choices — customers can individualize their X6s with options of 10 paint colors, 11 leather styles and three trims, including a special ash grain and polished aluminum. Stay tuned to Autobahn Report for our coverage of the Detroit auto show next month — including thorough reports on BMW, particularly the world debut of the exciting new X6, and Mini. Also see: X6 Photos )
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