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Driving: 2015 BMW X6

One of a kind

Blending coupe-like looks with a raised SUV body, the BMW X6 defies the idea of what an SUV should be. The X6 appeals to people looking for a sporty luxury SUV that is unique and distinct while offering a coupe-like design.

The second generation X6 arrives for 2015 with a fresh design, smart technology and improved efficiency.

Because the X6 is unique enough from other SUVs, it doesn’t really have direct rivals — for now. Customers seeking alternatives can look at the Porsche Cayenne for pure performance, or the Range Rover Sport for luxury and off-road capability. Those willing to wait can go and seek out the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe when it arrives at dealerships later this year; the GLE will be the closest direct competitor to the X6.

Design
While the BMW X6 has a sporty coupe-like body, it still has a bold, SUV-style look and features all-wheel drive. Both aspects are consistent with traditional SUVs, but in other respects compromises were made to make the X6 stand out among the crowd.

Aesthetics and on-road performance took precedence over versatility and capability. Seating and cargo capacity are certainly less than other SUVs, though not by much.

Most people like its bold, category-blurring looks - the second generation version actually has a cleaner and more cohesive design, especially around the rear.

While the exterior is unconventional, the interior is immediately recognizable as a BMW. Leather and wood is abundant, and the fit and finish is of high quality.

Blending coupe-like looks with a raised SUV body, the BMW X6 defies the idea of what an SUV should be. The X6 appeals to people looking for a sporty luxury SUV that is unique and distinct while offering a coupe-like design.

The second generation X6 arrives for 2015 with a fresh design, smart technology and improved efficiency.

Because the X6 is unique enough from other SUVs, it doesn’t really have direct rivals — for now. Customers seeking alternatives can look at the Porsche Cayenne for pure performance, or the Range Rover Sport for luxury and off-road capability. Those willing to wait can go and seek out the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe when it arrives at dealerships later this year; the GLE will be the closest direct competitor to the X6.

Design
While the BMW X6 has a sporty coupe-like body, it still has a bold, SUV-style look and features all-wheel drive. Both aspects are consistent with traditional SUVs, but in other respects compromises were made to make the X6 stand out among the crowd.

Aesthetics and on-road performance took precedence over versatility and capability. Seating and cargo capacity are certainly less than other SUVs, though not by much.

Most people like its bold, category-blurring looks - the second generation version actually has a cleaner and more cohesive design, especially around the rear.

While the exterior is unconventional, the interior is immediately recognizable as a BMW. Leather and wood is abundant, and the fit and finish is of high quality.

The design is similar to the X5 with whom the X6 shares its basic platform.

The X6 comes in two flavours — the X6 xDrive35i and the xDrive50i. Many options and several equipment packages are available to increase the exclusivity of the X6.

Performance
The BMW X6 was never meant to be a rugged off-roader…while it does have a sophisticated all-wheel drive system, it is set up to perform on the road as a sports vehicle.

Continuing the contradictions, the X6 delivers impressive performance despite its hefty size and weight. On highways, it is easy and comfortable, but on twisting back roads it is surprisingly fun to drive. It’s not as sharp as a 6 Series mind you, but it is more dynamic than the X5 and most other SUVs in this price range.  The overall performance is impressive.

The excellent chassis is backed by the two available engines. The base engine is a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six. Output is rated at 300 hp and 300 lb-ft of torque.

To up the excitement level, the optional engine is a 4.4-litre turbocharged V8 producing 445 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque. Despite the mass of the X6, this motor can propel it to 100km/h in just 4.8 seconds.

Both models come equipped with BMW’s xDrive all-wheel drive system. Also, both engines are mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission.

To increase efficiency, all models feature a start/stop function. This system shuts off the engine when it is idle, but start ups are not as smooth as other systems equipped on rivals.

Environment
Inside, the cabin of this X6 is roomier than the outgoing model. The two individual rear seats have been replaced by a three-seat bench and there is also more cargo space — though if you want an SUV to carry a lot of luggage, the X5 is still the better choice.

The cabin was designed around the driver and both front seats are comfortable and roomy with plenty of adjustability.

The X6’s raised chassis provides a nice view out front. Unfortunately, rear visibility is limited by the sloping roofline and it creates large blind spots.

The roofline also compromises rear seat headroom. It’s unfortunate, as legroom is quite decent.

Infotainment wise, the latest version of BMW’s iDrive system runs on a 10.25-inch screen. The large screen replaces many of the buttons and cleans up the entire dash. It looks elegant sitting prominently in the centre and its high-resolution crisply renders navigation images and entertainment info.

Features
The X6 xDrive35i starts at $68,890, while prices for the xDrive50i start at $83,190.

Standard equipment includes heated front seats, heated steering wheel, a sunroof, auto dimming exterior mirrors, rearview camera, front and rear parking sensors, adaptive headlights, navigation, and BMW’s No-Charge Scheduled Maintenance.

Additional features, available as options or on higher trims, include lane departure and collision warning, blind spot detection, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, surround view camera, automatic four-zone climate control, head-up display, high-beam assistant, and a rear seat entertainment package.

Fuel efficiency numbers (L/100km) for the xDrive35i are 13.0 city, 8.9 highway and 11.1 combined. The xDrive50i returns 16.0 city, 10.9 highway for 13.7 combined.

Thumbs Up
The driver and the passengers are treated to a comfortable and luxurious interior. The driver will enjoy an SUV that is genuinely fun to drive with a unique styling.

Thumbs Down
The big drawback is the X6’s limited versatility compared to other SUVs. Also, the ride is quite firm for leisurely drives.

The Bottom Line
If you are looking for a unique SUV that offers coupe-like performance, the BMW X6 is the only vehicle for you.

Competitors

  • Porsche Cayenne

The Porsche Cayenne has the character of a sports car and the practicality of a traditional SUV. Unfortunately, this blend of exhilaration, good looks and cargo space doesn’t come cheap.
The base model Cayenne start at $67,400, but the price quickly grows, all the way up to $178,100 for the Cayenne Turbo S.

  • Range Rover Sport

The Range Rover Sport is a massively capable off-road SUV, and it also happens to be one the world’s most luxurious as well. In fact, it rivals many dedicated luxury cars, all the while offering far more practicality and versatility. The driving feel is somewhat numb, however.
The Range Rover ranges in price from $75,490 for the SE, up to $124,990 for the 550 hp SVR.

  • Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe

The GLE Coupe was designed as a four-door coupe, only with a raised seating position. The large front grille leads to a stretched cabin offset by massive wheel arches and a high beltline.

Canadian prices have not yet been announced, but expect them to start about $70,000. It will arrive later in the year.