BMW says that the new X6 is the first vehicle in its segment to be available with adaptive LED headlights. At the rear, the taillights are now two LED-fed light banks which create the brand’s hallmark night design as a harmoniously glowing light mass. The fact that they are horizontally aligned and stretch far out to the sides emphasizes both the width of the vehicle and the flowing transition between the rear quarter and the tail-end.

Attractive new paint finishes, light alloy wheel and leather trim further enhance the new look, including the Marrakesh Brown metallic, Orion Silver metallic and Midnight Blue metallic.

The new BMW X6 comes standard as a four-seat model. A three-seat rear bench is available as an option.

As an additional option, the M Performance Package is available in the US. This attractive equipment package is not just cosmetic. It includes an engine upgrade of +15hp and +30 lb-ft of torque on the X6 xDrive35i giving it 315 hp and 330 lb-ft.

The increase is +40 hp +30 lb-ft of torque on the X6 xDrive50i for total peak output of 440 hp and 480 lb-ft. In addition, the M Performance Package includes 20-inch light alloy wheels, black chrome exhaust tips, stainless steel pedals, M foot rest and door sills, shadowline exterior trim, anthracite headliner, and optional Carbon Black metallic paint.

No info has been released at this time on the 2013 BMW X6 M, but we expect another announcement shortly.

Its ongoing popularity is due to both its highly expressive design, which combines the athletic and elegant lines of a coupe with the unique character of a BMW X model, and the outstanding driving experience provided by two powerful engines featuring BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology and xDrive, the intelligent all-wheel-drive system. The BMW X6 continues to offer Dynamic Performance Control which gives the Sports Activity Coupe unparalleled agility for a vehicle in this segment.

Since its market launch, more than 150,000 Sports Activity Coupes have been sold globally in the last three years with over 20,000 sold here in the US. This has far exceeded the original expectations. The continuing high level of demand for the BMW X6 on worldwide markets is affirmation of the ground-breaking vehicle concept of the Sports Activity Coupe.

Striking design features front and rear, adaptive LED headlamps a new option.
Precisely modified up front give the new BMW X6 an appearance characterized by athleticism and style. The standard foglights are now set in matt finish surrounds in the upper area of the outer air inlets. Their higher and more lateral position emphasizes the width of the vehicle. The striking three-dimensional modeling of the frame and newly designed bars, angled in the lower section, make the BMW kidney grille stand out conspicuously in the vehicle’s front end. The angle of the grille bars is flush with the bottom of the headlamp units, thereby creating an additional horizontal line which likewise highlights the wide track and road-holding prowess of the new BMW X6.

As an alternative to the standard Xenon headlights, the new BMW X6 is the first vehicle in its segment to be available with adaptive LED headlights. Their bright white light ensures optimum visibility, while their high-quality appearance represents a new interpretation of the brand’s hallmark twin circular headlamps. The three-dimensionally shaped luminous rings of the adaptive LED headlights are strikingly leveled off both at the top and bottom and are overlaid at the upper edge by an LED-fed accent light. The light sources for low and high beam light are LED units positioned on a horizontal bar at its center, feeding their light into the reflectors in front. With its newly designed taillights with LED technology, the powerfully shaped rear of the new BMW X6 also features more intense styling. The taillights are now two LED-fed light banks which create the brand’s hallmark night design as a harmoniously glowing light mass. The fact that they are horizontally aligned and stretch far out to the sides emphasizes both the width of the vehicle and the flowing transition between the rear quarter and the tail-end.

Attractive new paint finishes, light alloy wheel and leather trim further enhance the new look.
The program of external paint finishes for the new BMW X6 consists of two non-metallic and nine metallic colors, including Marrakesh Brown metallic, Orion Silver metallic and Midnight Blue metallic. The standard equipment range of the new BMW X6 also includes a new 19-inch light alloy wheel style for the X6 xDrive50i.

The standard Nevada leather upholstery is now also available in Vermilion Red. Also available is a new Nappa Leather upholstery in Ivory White. The new BMW X6 comes standard as a four-seat model. A three-seat rear bench is available as an option. The luggage compartment volume of the Sports Activity Coupe is 25.6 cubic feet (570 liters) and can be extended to up to nearly 60 cu.-ft. (1,450 liters) by folding down the rear backrests.

The new BMW X6: dynamic, unparalled, efficient, innovative.
The BMW X6 will again be offered in two models in the US, the X6 xDrive50i which features BMW’s 4.4-liter 400 hp TwinPower Turbo V8 and the X6 xDrive35i with BMW’s award-winning 300 hp TwinPower Turbo inline-6. Both are mated to BMW’s 8-speed automatic transmission for a unique blend of responsiveness and efficiency.

The new M Performance Package
As an additional option, the M Performance Package is available in the US. This attractive equipment package is not just cosmetic. It includes an engine upgrade of +15hp and +30 lb-ft of torque on the X6 xDrive35i giving it 315 hp and 330 lb-ft. The increase is +40 hp +30 lb-ft of torque on the X6 xDrive50i for total peak output of 440 hp and 480 lb-ft. In addition, the M Performance Package includes 20-inch light alloy wheels, black chrome exhaust tips, stainless steel pedals, M foot rest and door sills, shadowline exterior trim, anthracite headliner, and optional Carbon Black metallic paint.

The X6 M: The Ultimate Sports Activity Coupe
As an additional product offer from BMW M GmbH, the specialists for high-performance sports cars, the BMW X6M with its V8 engine delivering 555 bhp also benefits from detailed refinements in the area of design and equipment. The BMW X6 M is fitted with a 6-speed M Sport automatic transmission, also highlighting its individual status with such features as separately developed suspension technology.

The new BMW X6: Unmatched character – refined
The BMW X6 remains unique in the industry for its blend of style, performance and versatility. The updated 2013 model refines that character ensuring the continued success of the world’s first Sports Activity Coupe.

The 2013 BMW X6 arrives in US showrooms in the spring of 2012.

The front bumper now includes massive air vents covered in a mesh grid, headlamp eyelashes and front grilles painted in the same color as the rest of the car. The widened front and rear fenders are connected by the side skirt and a new romper incorporating a diffuser and quad tail pipes.

A rear spoiler is optional.

A new exhaust system with four tailpipes peeks through the redesigned rear bumper, and CLP completes the package with a set of bronze-colored German Diamonds wheels sized 11-by-23 inches in the front and 12.5-by-23 inches in the rear.

The kit can be finished with paint or rendered in exposed carbon fiber. CLP Automotive prices their kit at €10,000 or about US$13,500 at today’s exchange rates, which includes German VAT but not installation.

As we mentioned in the past, the X6 facelift brings visual changes to headlights, new front and rear a pros, as well as LED-powered white corona rings for daytime running lights. At the end, the taillights will receive the now usual LED treatment.

The kidneys get redesigned as well and now resemble the ones introduced on the new 6 Series. The grille gets a 3D aspect since the bars are not as flat as they used to be. In the front they are glossy and in the back, are matte.

The white X6 test mule shows the slats in the two new air intakes that provide additional aerodynamics.

The biggest change with the 2012 BMW X6 comes from under the hood. BMW will introduce a new X6 model to the European market: BMW X6 xDrive50d. The new model is said to feature the long-time rumored tri-turbo diesel engine.

The Tri-Turbo diesel engine is said to like an inline six-cylinder with 3.0 liter displacement and three turbochargers. The power of this engine will peak around the 400 horsepower mark. The standard consumption is also reportedly lower than comparable diesel engines.

Other changes are also coming to the X6 facelift. The company will also revise the powerplants in the X6 xDrive30d, xDrive40d, xDrive35i and xDrive50i. All these models will receive updated units with more power and better fuel efficiency.

The US market will continue to offer the xDrive35i and 50i models, while the X6 ActiveHybrid is being phased out.

The second-generation BMW X6 will be built under the internal code F16 and will arrive in 2014.

[Photos: Palbay Spyshots ]

The X6 hybrid made its debut back in 2009 at the Frankfurt Autp Show. Along with the 7 Series Hybrid, the X6 Active Hybrid played an important role in BMW’s EfficientDynamics program.

BMW ActiveHybrid X6 features a two-mode hybrid system which allows the X6 to run either on its electric motors alone at low speeds, internal combustion or a combination of both. Compared to the 7 Hybrid, the X6 makes use of not one, but two electric motors which deliver 91 hp and 86 hp, respectively, with peak torque values of 192 lb-ft and 206 lb-ft. Top speed in the electric mode is 37 mph, maximum range is 1.6 miles.

The maximum output is 480 horsepower and 575 lb-ft of torque. The ActiveHybrid X6 runs from 0 to 60 mph in only 5.4 seconds. The X6 Hybrid uses a 7-Speed automatic transmission. Top speed of X6 Hybrid is electronically limited to 130 mph.

Despite all the green and high-tech features, the X6 ActiveHybrid was often criticized for its extremely high fuel consumption: 18 mpg combined.

As farewell, read our own review of the BMW X6 ActiveHybrid

With this impressive power increase, the G-Power 2011 X5 xDrive48i is able to reach a top speed of 275 km/h and needs only 4.7 seconds to run from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h).

The ASA T1- 522 charger uses a radial centrifugal clutch, which is flanged to the engine through a CNC-milled framework structure. The X5′s supercharger is powered by a crankshaft via the multi-rib belt, and is lubricated through the engine’s oil circulation system. It boosts a pressure of 0.5 bar. T

The G-Power 2011 BMW X5 xDrive48i also features a two-part carbon intake air duct, a large-volume aluminum charge air cooling system, and a high-performance exhaust system including racing headers, catalysts and end mufflers.

On the design side, the TYPHOON body kit consists of new and very aggressive bumpers front and back, massive wheel arch extensions and LEDs at the front. Custom side skirts have also been fitted. The ventilated bonnet made of carbon fiber enhances the aggressive look.

In addition, both the Sports Activity Vehicle and the Sports Activity Coupe will be available as Exclusive Edition models, offering customers an exclusive choice of unique options and materials enabling them to configure their BMW with an unmistakable personal touch. In the autumn of 2011, the BMW X5 xDrive30d will also be available with BMW BluePerformance technology and will fully meet all of the requirements of the EU6 exhaust emissions standard.

The latest additions to the range of optional equipment and the BMW Individual package will be introduced simultaneously for the BMW X5 and the BMW X6. For example, Citrine Black Metallic will be added to the choice of exclusive BMW Individual exterior colours. Furthermore, door sill finishers will feature the BMW Individual designation. These finishers will be included in the BMW Individual composition package that will be available for both models. The BMW Individual interior trim sets distinctive new accents with its black patterned leather. BMW Individual extended Merino leather trim is also now available in Amaro Brown. For even more driving excitement, the BMW X5 Sport Package includes the new M leather steering wheel with integrated gearshift paddles.

Also in the autumn of 2011, both the BMW X5 and BMW X6 will be available as Exclusive Edition models for the first time. These models feature the unmistakable combination of sport and luxury that is reflected in the premium character of the design, technology and features that intensify the unique driving experience of the BMW X Series. The distinctive look of the BMW X5 and BMW X6 Exclusive Edition is immediately apparent in the exterior finishes Platinum Bronze Metallic (BMW X5) and Mineral Silver Metallic (BMW X6), plus the front door sill finishers featuring the BMW Edition designation and the rear sills bearing the BMW lettering on the BMW X5. The exclusive ambience of the interior is further enhanced with the BMW Individual headliner in Anthracite, the fine wood trim in dark Bamboo grain, plus black floor mats with oyster-coloured edging. The front sport seats upholstered in Nevada leather Oyster with black contrasting seams add a unique touch that rounds out the overall appeal of the interior. In the Exclusive Edition, these seats feature heating and electric seat adjustment for maximum comfort. Another additional option for the Exclusive Edition are new 20-inch light alloy wheels with Y spoke styling.

With their remarkable and sporty agility and handling characteristics, the BMW X5 and BMW X6 offer a unique experience that is typical of BMW performance and driving pleasure. Impressive acceleration and responsive high-revving engines, the eight-speed automatic transmission and the intelligent BMW xDrive four-wheel drive system enhance the dynamic driving experience. These features not only optimise agility and driving comfort, they also ensure excellent traction along with superb handling and stability under the most challenging weather and road conditions. What’s more, despite their high-performance characteristics, these models make no compromises when it comes to efficiency. The BMW X5 xDrive30d and BMW X6 xDrive30d models are truly impressive when equipped with the 180 kW/245 hp inline six-cylinder diesel engine, giving each of them an EU test cycle average fuel consumption rating of 7.4 litres and a CO2 rating of 195 grams per kilometre.

These outstanding consumption and emission figures can be enhanced further with an additional innovative emission control technology. In the autumn of 2011, the BMW X5 xDrive30d will also be available with BMW BluePerformance technology to further reduce the emission of nitrogen oxides (NOx). This is possible with the standard diesel particulate filter used in conjunction with the Diesel Oxidation Catalyst (DOC) and an NOx adsorber, which eliminates nitrous gases and sulphur oxides from the exhaust emissions. Thus vehicles equipped with this technology already meet the requirements of the EU6 emission standard that takes effect in 2014. BMW BluePerformance technology is absolutely maintenance-free for the entire lifetime of the vehicle. What’s more, the optimized emission technology does not impact the performance of the BMW X5 xDrive30d, and its average fuel consumption is a respectable 7.5 litres per 100 kilometres (CO2 emission: 198 g/km).

[Source: BMW]

The BMW X6 xDrive40d also went through a power transformation and received 350 horsepower. Inside, plenty of upgrades are meant to increase the sport appeal of the car, as well as keep the Lumma brand name in front of you at all time.

Photos and full press release below.

Press Release:

The vehicle that BMW likes to present as SAC (Sport Activity Coupé) is in principle a mix of SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle) and Coupé crossover. Shown for the first time in 2007 at Frankfurt/Main, the serial production started in 2008 at Spartanburg/USA, for the Asiatic destinations it was produced at Avtotor in the Russian Kaliningrad. The talk is about the BMW X6, in-plant called E71.

The wide across the German borders well known LUMMA car tuning company has created the LUMMA CLR X 650, based on the first BMW with Dynamic Performance Control (DPC provides for the smooth repartition of the driving moments between left and right rear wheel), thus giving him a hardly to beat curve dynamism, whereby practically each detail of the car has been involved in the tuning process.

The LUMMA complete tune implies front spoiler bumper with rather enlarged air inlets. Additional double lamps in LED technology and LED day running light are of course. Head light “eye brows” and mirror hatches, the rear spoiler lip are, as well as the sportive look engine bonnet, made in carbon. Besides, the beefy car body extension all around and the side skirts with brake cooler optics have extremely modified rear apron with diffuser demanding attention. Down tuned tail lamps is another attraction. The sportive look is accomplished by the matt black front kidney grille frame and the stripe design.

Proprietary rims named LUMMA Racing CLR 22 in 10″ and 12×22″ with tires in 295/30-22 in front and 335/25-22 rear together with the 40 millimeters (1.5″) to build the road contact. In yellow painted brake calipers are available also in reinforced execution.

The serial diesel engine comes along with 225 kW / 306 hp / 600 Nm. The LUMMA Design d-box „generates” 250 kW / 340 hp / 670 Nm. A power module for the gas pedal provides for the better and faster gas reaction and, thus, for the optimal acceleration. The also proprietary sport exhaust system in X6 M look with 4×100 mm tail pipes in black racing optics with LUMMA logo is quite powerful voiced. For gasoline models, there is a special sport sound available.

The view into the car offers besides the ergonomically formed and upholstered sport steering wheel a bicolor interior fitting in rhomb optics with contrasting ornamental seams.

LUMMA front and rear sport seats (rear seats as single ones) with backrest shells in structured carbon leather, matching to the interior colors instruments and seat belts, leather upholstered interior borders, the aluminum pedals set with slip-resistant rubber dots and lit door sill panels with LUMMA logo and, finally, the foot mat and boot floor mat with real leather bordering complete the interior packet.

Off-the-shelf, the BMW X6 is a bursting of highlights heavy weight of car. After “overhauling” by the team of Horst LUMMA, nevertheless, it comes along in a sensibly more graceful manner, without having lost any spark of joy of sportive auto car drive.

[Source: LUMMA]

Back in 2010, we reported on the BMW X6 being offered in the future with a 3-seat rear bench. Nearly a year later, Skiddmark confirms our initial assumptions. Starting from April 2011, BMW X6 will be offered with a rear bench increasing the number of X6 occupants to five.

Currently, BMW fitted the Sports Activity Coupe with a pair of rear buckets divided by a study center console with a cubby and cupholders.

The rear seats are currently only capable of accommodating two passengers, since the large rear center console is not removable. While the bucket seats are comfortable and supportive, legroom and headroom feel a bit cramped.

While not officially confirmed Confirmed by BMW also, Skiddmark mentions that the process of moving to a 3-seat rear bench has not been a simple one. The X6′s rear compartment was specifically designed for two and the bench height positioned to optimize the passenger’s view forwards whilst minimizing obstruction to the drivers’ view through the rear window.

Interesting enough, the UK publications says “due to the significant changes required to accommodate the three-seat rear bench, BMW’s X6 will no longer be available in its original 4-seater configuration.”

But back in 2010, Jim O’Donnell, BMWNA CEO said the following:

The X6 has surpassed our expectations–double what we originally thought in terms of segment share. We’re closing in on 100,000 vehicles in two years. We only offered it with two rear seats, and we have changed that and will offer an optional bench seat, but not in the 2011 model year. We would have sold more cars if we had the bench–it will be 70 percent of the volume. The consumer wanted that, and we thought he didn’t.

For the 2011 X6 models, the original way to operate the shift paddles returns, exactly like the ones in M cars. When manual operation of the eight-speed sport automatic is chosen, the right paddle shift the gears up while the left paddle is now for downshifts. Other changes include upgrades to the ConnecteDrive System and the addition of BMW Apps.

The addition of an optional 3-seat rear bench will most likely make its way into the usual facelifted model that is released mid-way into the production cycle.

[Source: Skiddmark ]

Lumma offers a D-Box power kit for diesel engines, which ups the power to 340 hp (250 kW) and 670 Nm of torque for the CLR X 650. The Lumma BMW X6 D-Box kit includes an ECU upgrade and a new four-pipe sports exhaust system.

The aerodynamics package of the Lumma BMW X6 includes a front spoiler, rear bumper, side skirts, a new bonnet and a rear spoiler.

Full details are revealed in the press release below.

Individuality and excellent performance: BMW X6 is transformed into the LUMMA CLR X 650

-Four individual Recaro sports seats dominate the car’s interior
-Full bodykit with carbon underscores the vehicle’s sporty character
-Power increased to 340 hp
-22 inch allow wheels with high-performance tires

Not just two, but four individual Recaro sports shell seats characterize the interior of the LUMMA CLR X 650, based on the BMW X6. With this fantastic and unique feature, LUMMA Design has created a confident, sporty ambience in the car.

The interior’s elegant flair is achieved with the leather upholstery in black and beige, complete with decorative seams in the contrasting color. The diamond-shaped stitching in particular highlights the two tones used. The interior is perfected with the finest Alcantara, which LUMMA Design applies to the plastic coverings already in the standard model of the car. Then there’s the ergonomically shaped and of course leather upholstered sports steering wheel (including an airbag) and the leather covered carbon-look interior ledges. The final touch to the car’s interior upgrade is the color coordinated instruments and the aluminum pedals with anti-slip rubber coating.

Yet the LUMMA X6 isn’t just about an amazing interior; it also gives the driver a definite engine power boost. The automobile tuner from Winterlingen in Germany offers its LUMMA D-Box for all diesel engines. This means that drivers can now enjoy a full 340 hp (250 kW) while maximum torque has been increased to 670 Newton meters. The LUMMA accelerator pedal power module meanwhile ensures sportier response. In keeping with the increased power of the vehicle, the four-pipe sports exhaust roars from its matt black X6M-style tailpipes.

LUMMA Design manages to bring out the car’s sporty nature visually too with its new bodykit. The front spoiler, rear bumper, side skirts, sporty looking bonnet and rear spoiler give the LUMMA CLR X 650 significantly more prestige. In addition, the real carbon applications, including the rear lip, mirror covers, front kidneys and headlamp visors further underscore the car’s sporty aspirations.

Thanks to the sports spring kit at both axles, the LUMMA CLR X 650 is around 40 millimeters lower, promising even more agile driving. In this way, the LUMMA sports rims, size 10×22 inch at the front and 12×22 inch at the rear, together with the high-performance tires of size 295/30 and 335/25, can use their maximum grip to deliver perfect handling.

With the transformed BMW X6, LUMMA Design proves that they are setting new benchmarks both for vehicles’ interiors and exteriors. The individual components that make up the LUMMA CLR X 650 can be ordered from selected specialized stockists or directly from LUMMA Design’s headquarters in Winterlingen.

[Source: Zercustoms | Lumma Design ]

The X6 was marketed as a Sports Activity Coupe and combines the attributes of an SUV (high ground clearance, all wheel drive and all-weather ability, large wheels and tires) with the stance of a coupé (bold styling, dramatic sloping roof). While slightly longer and wider than the X5, the X6 sits significantly lower and seats only four people, a feature that many started to criticize.

Soon the X6 became a hit for the company with most of the units heading to China, Eastern Europe and Middle East. While not a volume seller, the X6 was often hard to find on dealers’ lots. In December 2010, BMW of North America reported 30.8 percent sales increase, exactly 561units. Globally, the company sold 4,018 units in December 2010.

Today, Audi announced they are considering an X6 competitor. Audi’s Head of Design Wolfgang Egger talked to the press about a sport crossover rival to the BMW X6. “It has been a big success in China, where it’s become a second car driven by women. There, it’s a female sports car.”

According to Egger, the forthcoming Audi Q3 will be a step in this direction, but the automaker could still go further to compete with BMW.

Last year, Mercedes-Benz also announced a competitor for the X6. Dubbed GLC, the coupe-crossover is due to launch sometimes in 2014.

[Source: LeftLaneNews ]

On Monday Kaymer was already getting himself into gear for this upcoming challenge. During an off-road training session with BMW driver trainer Marc Nemeth, he steered the powerful BMW X6 xDrive50i across the desert sand in true style, surfing like a pro over the dunes in the 407 hp vehicle.

“It was a superb experience,” commented Kaymer with visible enthusiasm. “It’s amazing what the BMW X6 can do – normally you only tend to see these all-wheel-drive models in road traffic. But here, in the deep desert sand, it showed off its true qualities.” Driving instructor Nemeth was duly impressed with the performance of the world’s current no. 3 seed: “Martin has a very good feel for the car and knows exactly when to hit the gas.”

The 25-year-old from Mettmann in North Rhine-Westphalia will have to drum up this kind of talent again, along with his nerves of steel, on the course at the Jumeirah Golf Estates in order to parry the threat from Graeme McDowell, who is in peak playing form. The US Open Champion from Northern Ireland could still take a win to topple Kaymer from the lead in the Race to Dubai and be crowned Europe’s best golfer of the year, earning him prize money of 1.5 million dollars.

Against a spectacular desert backdrop, Kaymer followed up Monday’s off-road experience by practising a few careful strokes in Dubai’s biggest sand bunker. “My game feels good; I will be going into the tournament full of confidence,” he said.

Coming top of the year’s European ranking would be the crowning glory of an outstanding season for Kaymer. As well as being the first German golfing pro since Bernhard Langer to win a major (the US PGA Championship), the world’s third-best player celebrated a further three tournament victories, winning the Abu Dhabi Championship, the KLM Open and the Dunhill Links Championship, as well as playing for the successful European Ryder Cup team.

This year BMW is represented as Official Car for the first time at the Dubai World Championship. At the Jumeirah Golf Estates, Europe’s leading 60 professionals will be playing for prize money of 7.5 million dollars plus a Bonus Pool of another 7.5 million dollars for the top 15 finishers in the final ranking of the Race to Dubai.

[Source: BMW ]

BMW X6 came to break the stereotype of a BMW vehicle back in 2008 by combining the attributes of an SUV – high ground clearance, all wheel drive and all-weather ability, large wheels and tires – with the stance of a coupé – bold styling, dramatic sloping roof and dynamic lines.

Initially received with skepticism, the X6 was one of the most controversial BMWs of the decade with a large number of purists expressing their strong opinion on BMW’s new direction. But, over the last two years, the X6 SAC became highly successful and the car became popular in the US, and mostly Middle East and Russia.

In Germany, BMW’s top-selling model is the xDrive30d.

Building on the success of the sporty SAV, BMW released last year their first M all-wheel drive vehicle, the X6M, yet another controversial model. To increase its presence in the segment and to align with the “green movement” of all the other automakers, BMW launches the X6 ActiveHybrid, a car that became more popular on the West coast of United States.

The first facelift of the BMW X6 is scheduled for next year.

“BMW remains committed to helping customers personalize their vehicles,” said Dan Creed, Vice President of Marketing for BMW of North America. “The BMW X6 leaves our South Carolina factory as one of the most exciting vehicles on the road, possessing near-perfect balance, power, style, and versatility. The new BMW Performance accessories for the X6 serve to make it more powerful and more stylish, and enhance its trademark balance.”

Power Kit and High Performance Exhaust System

Perhaps the most exciting new development is the announcement of a BMW Performance Power Kit for 2008-2010 X6 xDrive35i and X6 xDrive50i models. The Power Kit for the X6 features special software developed and tested in-house by BMW powertrain engineers, and enhances the driving experience by providing higher engine output and responsiveness without increasing fuel consumption or exhaust emissions. The results are 320 horsepower (+20) and 332 lb-ft of torque (+32) for the X6 xDrive35i and 440 hp (+40) and 480 lb-ft of torque (+30) for the X6 xDrive50i. Each model reaches 60mph from a standstill 0.2-second quicker when equipped with the Power Kit (6.3 seconds for the X6 xDrive35i with Power Kit and 5.0 seconds for the X6 xDrive50i with Power Kit). 50-75mph passing acceleration times are reduced by about 0.5 seconds for each model.

BMW Performance is also developing a high-performance exhaust system for V8 and inline-6 powered variants of the X6, and will announce availability of the system this winter.

Aerodynamics

Directly from BMW’s state-of-the-art Munich wind tunnel comes the comprehensive new BMW Performance Aero Kit for the X6 Sports Activity Coupe (excluding X6 M and ActiveHybrid X6 models). The Aero Kit, which includes redesigned front and rear bumper covers, side skirts, and rear bumper insert, is specifically sculpted to reduce aerodynamic drag and lift at high speeds, improving stability while making a dramatic, stylish statement. Additionally, new specially-sculpted Rear Fins and Rear Deck Spoiler may be added to fully complement the aerodynamic signature of the X6.

Wheels

BMW Performance has created a stunning set of 21-inch light-alloy wheels for the X6 Sports Activity Coupe (all models including X6 M and ActiveHybrid X6). Measuring 10”x21” with 285/35/R21 tires up front and 11.5”x21” with 325/30/R21 tires at rear, the unique spoke design features a polished outer surface with unique inner contours which dramatically highlight the powerful, athletic character of the X6.

Steering Wheel

Last but not least, BMW Performance has made available a unique multifunction steering wheel for X6 models (excluding X6 M and vehicles with Lane Departure Warning). This direct replacement for the standard X6 steering wheel features a thick, racing-style, flattened lower rim and is fully covered in hand-stitched Alcantara material. Since the steering wheel serves as the driver’s primary interface with the X6, the BMW Performance Steering Wheel has been designed to place maximum emphasis on the importance of the man-machine connection.

[Source: BMW ]

The car features a new aero bodykit, as well as a fresh ‘two-tone’ paint job. The bodykit consists of a front and rear bumper spoiler, new flared fenders, sills and an exhaust system with quad tailpipes.

The X6 sits on ENCO-JURA 23 inch aluminum wheels.

The silver and matt black wrap finish the exclusive look. No pricing has been revealed at this moment.

[Source: GTSpirit ]

The BMW Performance Aerodynamics Kit is made up of the front bumper, side-sills and an insert for the rear bumper, all in special design and all finished in body color. The BMW Performance Aerodynamics Kit for the BMW X6 is also supplemented by a rear spoiler, rear fins in matte black and a front grid finished in high-gloss black paint.

BMW Performance light-alloy wheels in Y-spoke design further optimize the dynamic driving potential and the striking looks of the BMW X6. Reduced in weight, these cast light-alloy 12-inch wheels stand out in particular through their roll-milled rim hump and exclusive twin-tone finish with a glossy outside surface and Ferric Grey paintwork between the rims. A special production method reduces the weight of each wheel by approximately 1,500 grams compared with conventional wheels of the same size.

BMW Performance also offers a sports exhaust system. Available also on the BMW X6 xDrive50i and BMW X6 xDrive35i, this option stands out clearly through its chrome-plated tailpipes, at the same time offering even lower weight and a particularly striking sound pattern together with a further reduction of exhaust counter-pressure.

The complete set of wheels in 21 inch size are priced at 5,000 euros while the aerodynamic package goes for around 2,500 euros.

[Source: BimmerToday ]

Yesterday, the first real life photos of the Met-R BMW X6 Interceptor hit the web. The car continues to feature a set of vertical fog lights with the kidneys’ eyebrows derived from the 6-Series.

The car has been painted in a BMW tii-like theme.

The kit’s base price was set at $9,900.

[Source: Carscoop ]

The conversion done by the Russian tuner, involves pushing the B-pillar backwards, adding 250mm (9.8 inch) longer front doors, and moving the rear window forward 200mm (7.9 inches). Since the exterior conversion demands interior changes as well, the X6 “coupe” comes with modified front seats similar as in coupe model that tilt and slide forward allowing access to the rear seat.

Since performance is sometimes associated with a coupe-like design, the X6 by ArmoTech can be ordered with upgraded engine, sportier suspensions, a modified exhaust and of course, performance brakes.

Other available options included an aggressive body kit, custom wheels, alcantara upholstery and a sport steering wheel.

No pricing at the moment, and even though ArmoTech announces an availability worldwide, the discussion around passing the safety tests remain.

The limited X6 is coated in a silver-pearl body color from BMW’s Individual program and comes standard equipped with a BMW Performance aero-kit that includes an aggressive front bumper, side skirts, rear diffuser and blacked-out kidney grilles. The X6 sits on uniquely-designed 21-inch alloy wheels wrapped around some wide tires. The tinted windows add an extra “special feel” to this X6.

Inside, the X6 Performance Unlimited features more items from the BMW Performance program: aluminum pedals and brushed aluminum trim. The X6 is identified by a limited edition badge placed inside.

The BMW X6 Performance Limited went only through cosmetic changes and the powerplant is identical to the one in the “regular” xDrive35i, 3.0 liter turbocharged with 306 horsepower.

The BMW X6 Performance Unlimited is available for order in Japan with pricing set at 9,450,000 Yen ($108,400).

[Source: Carscoop ]

That’s why we are bringing you an article based review, with a video based review. We want to cover all angles for you. There’s no need to hide it, and this I shall get out from the beginning: the BMW X6 is expensive. Too expensive, I believe. But that doesn’t tell you anything about it.

So here’s the rest of the story…

To tell it the proper way, I must add that pretty much every fellow writer that I spoke with before getting the X6 from BMW, and each one I talked to while having it, told me that I was going to hate it, or strongly dislike it. I feel neither of those emotions is at all true from this writer. I came out enjoying the X6 as if it were a vehicle I would go and buy myself. I drove the X6 xDrive35i from Newark, NJ, stopping off in Columbia, MD to visit some family, and then down to my home in Raleigh, NC. In total, I covered roughly 1,500 miles between driving it down and then back up.

In the amount of time I had the BMW X6, I realized, it packs a lot of punch for something that’s only meant to carry four people and a little bit of cargo. The 2010 X6 xDrive35i has the N54 twin-turbo inline-6, making 300hp and 300lb-ft of torque (the 2011 will have the N55 single turbo).

However, we know from past experiences that the N54 can actually make closer to 360hp and 350lb-ft of torque at the crank. That’s roughly what the 4.8-liter V8 from the E60 550i and E65/E66 750i/Li had. All-in-all, the twin-turbo six will haul the X6 to 60 in about 6-seconds with the Sport Package. Impressive for a car that weighs just shy of 4800lbs.

I was able to haul people 6-feet tall and under in the back seat with room to spare for their legs and heads. However, any taller than 6-feet, and you’re pushing your luck. With that said, I was able to fit three medium to large roller suitcases in the back, and also allowed space for three full backpacks underneath the cargo area (the floor opens up to reveal this) in the back of the Sports Activity Coupe.

It was certainly impressive amounts of space for something that everyone told me before hand to be cautious of.

In the front, well, that’s where the fun is. The BMW X6 has many different things to play with. Whether it’s the iPod adapter, the revised iDrive control system, or just sitting back and relaxing in the comfortable sport seats. This X6 unfortunately didn’t come with iDrive navigation…

Overall Driving 4.5 out of 5:

The overall driving impressions of the X6, at first, were rather good. It took me a second to get used to where everything was and what it did.  When you do learn it -rather quickly with the revised iDrive- you enjoy the driving experience a lot more.

When I started my journey, I was in traffic on the NJ Turnpike. Not the most ideal place to be on a Friday at 5 o’ clock. But I learned a lot about the X6 driving it in traffic. For one, the xDrive35i may very well be the better of the two X6s offered (xDrive35i and xDrive50i).

I know that may sound crazy, but here’s why.

Driving along on the highway, I was returning, according to the trip computer on my way back from Maryland, about 23.5 mpg with an average speed of 54.3 mph. That was just 191 miles into the trip. Once it started with some hurricane style downpours continuing until I got home, I was going slower and returning about 21-22 mpg. Not bad at all for a utility vehicle doing 60-75 mph on I-95 and other various highways with similar traffic and speed limits.

Getting back into North Carolina, I filled up the following day and realized that I had gone a total of 431 miles on one tank of gas, with 33 miles left, from Westchester, MD to Raleigh, NC. I had been driving in traffic on the highway, at various highway speeds, then into extreme rain and finally, city driving. According to BMW’s trip computer, I had successfully done 21.5 mpg on the dot, and kept an average speed of 49.9 mph. Maybe I should have slowed down a little more in the rain… but the BMW X6 gave me so much confidence in everything I drove in, that I never felt, at any time, I was in any sort of danger. The typical highway stuff of people cutting you off, dodging interesting things in the roads, and people even swerving to avoid something right next to you, not one time did I feel as if the X6 would do me any harm, or allow me to get hurt. It may sound hokey, but I mean it when I say, I’ve never felt so safe in any automobile.

I have heard some people who calculate their miles per gallon manually say that BMW’s trip computer can be up to 1.5 mpg better than in actuality. So with that, the X6 still did 20 mpg in all types of driving habits and styles.

Technology wise, BMW has been considered a pioneer and many times they have changed the way we drive each day. Some people hail it them as the killers of the turn signals, navigation and user controls, as well as the joystick drive system. All of these I disagree with, but there’s been one thing that I was pretty afraid of, and that was the push button parking brake. I was afraid that the e-brake was now no longer for emergency use, but just a push button for when you’re on a hill.

So if you actually do need it while driving, you can’t use it because the computer won’t let you… This isn’t the case.

At about 60 mph on a long stretch of back road, with no one around, I pulled the parking brake button towards me, and low and behold, it stopped the car in an emergency panic. Bless you BMW for not taking that one last thing away from us.

Comfort 4 out of 5:

Driving the X6 all that I did was fantastic. While continuing to feel safe and secure, I have also felt extremely comfortable. One wish that remained unfilled was sport seats offering a manual bolster setting, because I found myself wanting them to be a little tighter on my sides.

Also, even though the knee bolsters are fantastic, the X6 that I had seemed to have touchy ones. If you went to sit up, or reach over into the passenger or rear seats, the backs of your legs hit against the bolster and push them in to the point where it sounds like you have broken them. Maybe it was just the vehicle I had.

The back seat riders said they had good comfort, but wouldn’t have been comfortable for anyone too tall or big.

One more surprising thing about the X6 is the actual ride comfort. With the 20″ sport wheels, one would  have expected something much more harsh and choppy, but that’s not the case. The X6 xDrive35i with the Sport Package and big sport wheels rides like the proverbial Cadillac…

Sport Package 5 out of 5:

The BMW Sport Package is renowned for being the best blend of sport, luxury, safety and efficiency in all the world. Here is why: when driving any BMW, you feel alive. There is hardly ever a feeling that a computer can and will do it for you, or better than you for that matter. It  is the same in the X6 xDrive35i.

Except for one thing… you can turn it off.

Right behind the gear shifter sits a black button that has a green light when turned on. It says “Sport”. Turning this off, you can feel the steering loosen up around town, the brakes a little less touchy, and the accelerator pedal a little more relaxed. Gear changes also seem a little more at ease. So this is good news for anyone who wants a Sport Package without all of the stiff steering and other various inputs that used to come along with it. The guy can have his sports car, but the wife can have her comfy ride if needed.

The best of both worlds is what I call it.

Sound System: 5 out of 5:

Plain and simple, one of the best stereo systems out there. The Harmon/Kardon Premium Sound system is quite impressive and will satisfy any audiophile out there. You could literally sit an X6 on the stage at Madison Square Garden and power the sound of any rock concert you’d want to hear.

As I said earlier, there were some seriously heavy rains driving down from MD to NC, and the problem with rain is that you can always hear it from inside the car. You can hear it whooshing around the car, under the wheel wells, hitting the car as other cars drive by, etc…. But with my iPod hooked up to the X6 and the stereo turned up rather loud, you hear nothing. And I really do mean nothing. It’s quite amazing. I have yet to drive or ride in a car where the noise of the outside world didn’t at least interfere a tiny bit.

Pet Friendliness 3 out of 5:

Okay, so the title is weird, but here is what I mean: with the hatchback style rear on the X6, you are looking at a weird angle when larger dogs try to stand up. There is plenty of room back there for most dogs and any cat, but it is not going to be the most comfortable on long drives. In this case, you may want to look at the X5.

My 70-lb German Shepherd was able to get into the back just fine, and had good comfort while laying down. But while shutting the door, I started to feel bad. When she stood up, her body was at a weird angle just so she could look out the back window. There is one thing that makes the X6 pet friendly, the tall rear bumper.

The rear bumper on the X6 is so tall, that animals have to jump a little higher to get in. But if you look closely, say someone rear-ends you… the impact would not drive into the cargo area. It would go underneath of the cargo area. So the rear hatch should remain unharmed, along with most things in the back.

Again, safety.

Final Verdict: 3.5 out of 5

The X6 xDrive35i is more sports car than SUV, but it is much more utility than anyone could expect. You can still tow 6,000lbs, for all you boat, Jet Ski or racing guys. It only seats  four people, but you know what? A Chevy Tahoe, an Escalade, GMC Yukon, Ford Expedition, and the Lincoln Navigator all only hold four people when equipped with captain’s chairs.

Yes, they do have a third row seat that seats two, but try putting anything behind those rear seats when going on a trip. This means that you have to put the rear seats down (in the Fords), or in the GM vehicles, unload the 80 lb third row (80 pounds for each seat! I know this all too well… I still have nightmares) and then put all of your luggage in. That’s only four-five seats. And those trucks don’t have much more room in the back than the X6.

So, the X6 isn’t an SUV, but it sure does all the same stuff people use them for these days.

But this brings us to a conundrum. As beautiful and great as this vehicle is, it is quite expensive. This xDrive35i came out to be $67,275 on its sticker, and that’s $10,000 too much. It’s an amazing vehicle, but I’d buy it CPO (Certified Pre-Owned) and let someone else taking the hit to their wallet. This X6 also didn’t include navigation in that price, and that’s a lot of money for a car these days that doesn’t have it.

With that said, we still recommend buying it, just maybe not brand new.