In attempting to create a new niche, BMW has created a unique vehicle with superb driving dynamics.

The BMW X6 is a vehicle that will challenge the way we all look at the automobile. To some, it will appear redundant, frivolous and ugly, while to others the X6 answers the question they’ve been asking about the ultimate sporting SUV. However, BMW acknowledges that the X6 isn’t for everybody. It expects to sell far fewer of these premium soft-roaders compared to the mainstream X5 models. Yet the X6 does have plenty going for it – most notably its sportscar handling and innovative V8 engine.

It is said to combine the seating position of the X5 with the roofline and sporting character of the 6-Series sports coupe to create a ground-breaking SAV line that redefines the notion of a coupe – with five doors and four sculpted seats, a higher ride and loads of cargo space, it combines coupe agility and SAV versatility, taking the coupe to a higher level.
Missing out on two diesel derivatives, US buyers can choose between the xDrive50i (4.4 V8, 400hp, 450lb-ft) and the xDrive35i (3.0 inline six-cylinder, 300hp, 300 lb-ft), both boasting twin-turbos and direct injection. This allows the BMW X6 to offer unique features and performance in a combination unmatched by any other vehicle.
The new BMW X6 xDrive35i is expected to be in dealer showrooms by late April 2008, with retail prices starting at $53275 (including Freight and Destination). The X6 xDrive50i will retail from $63,775 (including Freight and Destination) and will arrive in the summer of 2008.
To introduce this new car, we’ve chosen to combine BMW’s technical briefing with our own observations. What you’ll find is a vehicle that offers one of the most dynamic driving experiences of any SAV in a vehicle that aims to bridge the gap between SUV and sports coupe. It’s the car for people who can’t afford both, offering more versatility than a regular coupe with better dynamics than an SUV. So below you will find a complete overview of the new vehicle.

The X6 employs BMW's proven intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive technology with electronic control to vary the distribution of power between the front and rear axles, instantaneously adjusting to driving conditions. However, the X6 takes xDrive a step further with the introduction of Dynamic Performance Control to ensure variable distribution of drive forces between the two rear wheels.
DPC incorporates an advanced computer control and a rear differential incorporating two planetary gear sets and two clutch packs that enable the system to multiply torque to an individual rear wheel. The result is that Dynamic Performance Control can help steer the vehicle by directing torque to either of the rear wheels. This cutting-edge technology is effective whether the driver is accelerating or decelerating and significantly enhances steering precision and, as a result, the agility of the vehicle at any speed. In fast corners with abrupt steering maneuvers or with the driver suddenly releasing the gas pedal, Dynamic Performance Control serves to improve the stability of the entire vehicle, thus allowing the driver to safely enjoy new dimensions of driving dynamics. On slippery or uneven surfaces, Dynamic Performance Control provides the further advantage of even safer and more stable traction.
We had the opportunity to sample the X6 in its potent xDrive50i V8 form at Michelin’s test track. Tackling a high speed course, slalom and wet handling areas, the X6 behaves like a [heavy] sportscar. You can certainly feel its 5269 lb in fast corners, but the electronic aids and super-wide 315/35-20 rear tires mean the X6 will keep pace with all but the sportiest sedans and coupes. And whereas we often complain that driver aids prevent the proficient driver from taking full control, we have to admit that in the X6, these aids allow you to do what a vehicle of this size shouldn’t be able to!
Perhaps the biggest appeal of the xDrive50i is the new V8 engine. Displacing 4.4 liters, with maximum engine output of 400hp and peak torque of 450 lb-ft available from 1750-4500rpm, it’s the most powerful engines ever seen in a BMW X model.

The new eight-cylinder is impressive not only through its outstanding thrust and pulling force, but also through its compact dimensions. For this is the first eight-cylinder gasoline engine in the world to feature its turbochargers in the Vee between the cylinder heads. Furthermore, BMW has designed an exhaust system that sounds deep and satisfying from inside the car. Yet when we were outside, watching other drivers perform on the track, the sound moves your souls. Revved hard, it generates a bass note at a volume and intensity we were not expecting.
Hence, the BMW Sports Activity Coupe is an absolutely exceptional vehicle beyond the direct range of BMW X model competitors, ensuring unparalleled performance in all situations, regardless of road and surface conditions.
BMW's new Sports Activity Coupe demonstrates a greater share of surfaces finished in body color, the front end looks lower and more dynamic, emphasizing the powerful orientation of the BMW X6 to the road rather than highlighting its off-road use. This DNA is demonstrated in the design of the hood and the position of the BMW kidney grille, with fins finished in a titanium color on the xDrive50i and black on the xDrive35i.
Large air intakes are positioned to the outside of the front bumper for more than just meeting the cooling requirements of the engines. Interacting with the side panels, they extend over the headlights, and the air scoops provide clear orientation towards the wheels, emphasizing the powerful stance of the vehicle.
The unique proportions of the new BMW X6 stand out from the side. The short body overhang at the front emphasizes the dynamic look of the vehicle, while the roof line tapers gently toward the rear, while the long body overhang on the rear section adds to the stretched silhouette of a genuine coupe.
At the rear, the side window frame features the "counter-swing" at the bottom of the D-pillar, known as the "Hofmeister kink", and chrome surrounds on the windows distinguish the xDrive50i from the xDrive 35i.
The high waistline and contoured wheel arches move the visual center of gravity to the middle of the vehicle, bearing testimony to all-wheel drive.
And while the lines at the side highlight the elegance of the vehicle, the special design of the surface gives the BMW X6 a particularly powerful look from this perspective. Interaction of the concave and convex surfaces emphasize the muscular look of the vehicle, providing the X6 with a balance of visual power and stylish presence.
The entire rear end is subdivided by horizontal lines giving the rear end a wider look and emphasizing the powerful stance of the vehicle. The greenhouse with its strikingly low rear window, tapers smoothly towards the rear, with the rear lid featuring a distinct air flow lip, further proof that this unique new vehicle is a genuine coupe in its looks and style.
The interior of the BMW X6 offers a unique synthesis of luxury, sporting dynamics, and powerful style. Tense surfaces blend into one another to symbolize the active character of BMW's Sports Activity Coupe, sporting features such as kneepads on both sides of the center console, paddles on the sports steering wheel featured as standard, and the fine scale on the circular instruments creating an different driving experience in the new BMW X6 both on the road and off the beaten track.
Like all BMW X models, the new Sports Activity Coupe offers the occupants of all four seats an elevated, commanding seating position. In particular, this gives the driver a clear feeling of being in control of his BMW X6 in all situations. In conjunction with the cockpit begging the driver to drive his vehicle in an active style, this creates an innovative impression of genuine, all-out sportiness.
A further point distinguishing the world's first Sports Activity Coupe from the other BMW X Models is the sporting design of the individual rear seats separated from one another through the center console, the high-rising side supports, and the integrated headrests on all four seats.
The BMW X6 is the only vehicle in the segment of BMW X models to feature a sports steering wheel with gearshift paddles as standard, which enable the driver to shift gears manually on the six-speed automatic transmission for enhanced smoothness and response at all times.
Furthermore, multifunction buttons on the steering wheel operate the telephone and audio systems quickly, smoothly and without the slightest distraction, while two additional buttons may be programmed individually according to the driver's personal preferences.
Visibly and tangibly sophisticated, premium quality surfaces make the interior of the X6 a genuine experience. Through the special quality designed for lasting strength and resistance, the interior surfaces also emphasize the robustness of the vehicle committed to off-road use whenever required.
Wide opening rear doors facilitate access to the two rear seats, while head-room in the rear is unusually generous for a coupe – 37.2” guarantees comfort and convenience, even for tall passengers.
A wide range of materials and colors highlighting the sporting character of the BMW X6 adds to the individual style and personality of this unique vehicle. The exterior paintwork, for example, comes in a choice of no less than ten exterior colors, eleven leather options and three trim options ensure a wide range of individual style and choice.
Trim in ash grain has been created especially for BMW's Sports Activity Coupe. And while the wood variants exude a particular touch of discreet exclusivity, the sweeping polish on the aluminum version shows a clear and distinct reference to motorsport.
The passenger and luggage compartment on the BMW X6 are distinctly separated from one another in the usual style one would expect of a fully-fledged coupe. Offering 25.6cuft of storage space, the luggage compartment behind the rear seats of the BMW X6 is far larger than in a conventional coupe, providing enough space to store four full-size golf bags in the luggage compartment-even with four people riding in the vehicle.
BMW's new Sports Activity Coupe also boasts a firm, folding cover on top of the luggage compartment that can be folded and stowed beneath the floor for convenient transportation of bulky objects. To increase the transport capacity, the rear-seats may be folded down in an asymmetric split, expanding loading capacity to a substantial 59.7cuft.
An automatic tailgate opening and closing function is available as an option on the BMW X6, allowing the driver to vary the final position of the tailgate when open. This helps to reduce the risk of damage, for example in an underground garage with a low ceiling.
The vehicle's drivetrain and suspension systems interact with BMW's Integrated Chassis Management. This electronic control ensures harmony of drivetrain and suspension functions in fractions of a second, offering maximum driver control and performance at all times.
Even under a sudden change in driving conditions, for example, on varying surfaces, in panic steering maneuvers, when accelerating or applying the brake abruptly, ICM reacts with precision to the xDrive, DSC and Dynamic Performance Control actuators and to Active Steering (when fitted as an option). In all cases, the nature and scope of such intervention is appropriately controled to ensure not just maximum driving stability, but also optimum dynamics.
As a result of the inclusion of the Dynamic Performance Control, the Dynamic Stability Control is only required to cut in by applying the brakes electively on the appropriate wheel or wheels when the vehicle reaches the extreme limits of driving physics.
At the rear, the BMW X6 features BMW's patented Integral IV axle serving to harmonize superior comfort with equally superior dynamics. And now this lightweight construction has been optimized for the Sports Activity Coupe in many respects, with the entire rear axle configuration being appropriately adjusted to the specific demands of this model, for sportiness and performance.
The BMW X6 comes as standard with 19” light-alloy wheels. Also featured as standard are run-flat tires, which enable continued driving even after a complete loss of pressure in the tires. Furthermore, the Tire Pressure Monitor system constantly monitors air pressure and warns the driver as soon as the air pressure in the tires drops more than 30% below the ideal level.
The vehicle we drove wore the optional 20” wheels but ride comfort seemed barely affected by the lower profile tires. In fact, this SAC offers very high levels of comfort, unmatched by most conventional coupes.
Permanent all-wheel drive with electronically controlled, variable distribution of drive power between the front and rear axles gives all BMW X models not only superior traction, but also enhanced driving dynamics. Indeed, BMW xDrive gains its superiority as an intelligent all-wheel-drive system by distributing drive power front to rear by way of an electronically controlled multiple-plate clutch according to driving conditions, in exactly the right dosage and to the axle with grip.
In normal driving situations BMW xDrive distributes drive power in a 40:60 split front-to-rear, with sensors consistently measuring wheel slip. Hence, the system is able within a fraction of a second to vary the distribution of drive forces, anticipating the upcoming situation and not just responding once a wheel has started to spin. This serves to stabilize the vehicle even before the driver notices any need for action.
On the new X6 with Dynamic Performance Control, handling and stability are enhanced to an even higher level with the ability to multiply torque to an individual rear wheel for yaw control. With the combination of xDrive and Dynamic Performance Control, the X6 is able to counteract even the slightest trend to over- or under-steer right from the start, at the earliest conceivable point, benefiting the driver's sense of driving dynamics.
The positive effect of Dynamic Performance Control on the agility of the BMW X6 is clearly seen right from the start. In conventional everyday traffic, the vehicle steers into corners with significantly enhanced precision at any speeds.
Dynamic Performance Control likewise enhances the handling and, indeed, the overall control of the BMW X6 in sudden steering maneuvers and at particularly high speeds in corners. If the vehicle begins to understeer or push to the outside of a corner BMW xDrive and Dynamic Performance Control will dynamically shift torque to the outside rear wheel in order to counteract the understeer. On the other hand, if the vehicle threatens to over-steer, xDrive reduces the transmission of power to the rear wheels then the Dynamic Performance Control transfers torque and drive forces from the outer rear wheel and diverts these forces to the inner rear wheel.
This intervention in the interest of greater stability is so quick and finely controlled that the driver will not even notice what is happening. What the driver will notice, however, is that the BMW X6 has exceptional steering precision and vehicle balance all the way to the extreme limit.
A further unique feature of Dynamic Performance Control is that engine power and torque are split variably between the rear wheels not only when the engine is "pulling" the vehicle, but also on overrun. This is made possible by the addition of a planetary gear set and a multiple-plate clutch operated by an electric motor on both output sides of the rear differential. With this configuration Dynamic Performance Control is able to vary the distribution of drive power also when the driver takes his foot off the accelerator.
Dynamic Performance Control also serves to optimize traction on a slippery surface. With its ability to vary the transmission of engine power specifically as required between the two rear wheels, Dynamic Performance Control serves to improve traction and pulling force whenever the vehicle is running on different surfaces from one side to the other, for instance, with asphalt on one side and a snowy surface on the other. Any differences in the frictional coefficient between the wheels on the left and right (modal split) are offset by Dynamic Performance Control specifically controlling drive forces on the rear axle.
The driver can observe the interaction of xDrive and Dynamic Performance Control in an instrument cluster pictogram. By simply pressing the lever on the steering column, the driver is informed of the current distribution of drive power via a bar diagram showing how much power is going to each of the four drive wheels at any given point in time.
The difference in drive forces between the two rear wheels provided by Dynamic Performance Control can be as high as 1327 lb-ft (1800 Newton-meters). But even then, all the driver will feel when Dynamic Performance Control intervenes is a - significant - increase in agility, traction and driving stability. As a result of Dynamic Performance Control's intervention, the Dynamic Stability Control intervenes much less frequently than before. In practice, this means that the driver is able to use the full drive power and torque of the engine much longer than with a conventional system. DSC will intervene on individual wheels or by reducing engine power only when the driver really pushes the vehicle to the extreme limits of physical performance.
In addition, DSC in the new BMW X6 offers a wide range of additional functions serving to promote safe and dynamic motoring including: ABS anti-lock brakes; Automatic Stability Control; Trailer Stability Control; Hill Descent Control; Cornering Brake Control and Dynamic Brake Control, automatically maximizing brake pressure when required in the interest of minimum stopping distances.
The DSC system in the BMW X6 has the ability to serves as an electronic limited slip diferential for improved acceleration. Fade Compensation can increase brake pressure under extremely high brake temperatures to maintain consistant brake forces. Brake Drying, in turn, optimizes brake performance in wet conditions by periodically lightly applying the brakes to dry the rotors, while the Start-Off Assistant prevents roll-back on an uphill gradient.
The new BMW X6 features a parking brake operating both electromechanically and hydraulically, activated or released simply by pushing a button.

Reflecting the high standard of driving dynamics offered by the BMW X6, DSC also comes with Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) as a special function, raising the DSC response thresholds to a higher level, allowing a particularly sporting and active style of motoring, and enabling the driver to set off smoothly on snow or in loose sand with the drive wheels intentionally spinning slightly.
Supported by a wide range of DSC functions, the high-performance brake system featured in the BMW X6 ensures excellent stopping power under all conditions. Vented discs on all four wheels combined with newly developed lightweight floating aluminum calipers front and rear, guarantee extremely good resistance to fading and maximum brake comfort on the top-of-the-range BMW X6 xDrive50i.
The BMW X6 is also available with Active Steering as an option. This system, developed by BMW, offers exactly the right steering ratio at all speeds. At low speeds, such as when parking, the driver only has to turn the steering wheel twice from lock to lock. At higher speeds, on the other hand, Active Steering offers a more indirect transmission ratio in the interest of steady directional stability and, as a result, enhanced driving comfort and stability.
On the BMW X6, Active Steering is combined with Servotronic, thus making an active contribution in stabilizing the vehicle in the event of over-steer in bends or particularly demanding brake maneuvers. When applying the brakes on different surfaces left and right, Active Steering counter-steers discreetly but firmly to enhance stability.
On the slalom course that had been set up for us, we found BMWs active steering offers distinct advantages since it’s able to increase steering response according to the speed of your input. This means it’s ready to respond when you need it most. Combined with the other electronic aids laden upon the X6, it really is an incredibly stable platform that offers sportscar like handling and responses.
With ultimate driving performance as the most important feature-this applies to BMW's X models and to BMW's eight-cylinder engines-the BMW X6 is adding an incomparably dynamic variant to the line-up of BMW X Models, with the world's first Sports Activity Coupe boasting a particularly sporting and dynamic eight-cylinder.
Displacing 4.4 liters, the new V8 engine with Twin Turbo technology and direct gasoline injection (High Precision Injection) develops its maximum output of 400 hp throughout a broad range of engine speed from 5,500-6,400 rpm. Engine torque reaches its peak of 450 lb-ft throughout an unusually large speed range from 1,750-4,500 rpm. The spontaneous, intense and long-lasting thrust generated in this way is the result of Twin Turbo technology already featured on BMW's most powerful straight-six combined with High Precision Injection. The cooling effect of direct fuel injection allows for a very high compression ratio of 10.0:1 - which is quite unusual on a turbocharged engine. The high compression ratio helps to give the engine its high level of efficiency and performance characteristics.
The position of the turbochargers and catalytic converters in the V-section between the two rows of cylinders is likewise an innovation in technology allowing particularly compact engine dimensions and at the same time requiring new configuration of the intake and exhaust ducts. This means shorter intake and exhaust manifolds and larger cross-sections significantly reducing pressure losses on both the intake and exhaust side.
The all-aluminum V8 engine developed for the BMW X6 offers all the qualities typical of an eight-cylinder in incomparably sporting style. In practice, this means a combination of superior torque at low engine speeds with an ongoing surge of power and performance up to the higher speed range.
The BMW X6 xDrive50i accelerates from 0-60 mph in just 5.3sec and boasts ample power reserves for exceptional acceleration also at higher speeds. When equipped with the optional 20” wheels with performance tires, the top speed is a truly impressive 155mph limited electronically by the engine control unit.
The power and performance characteristics of the new V8 result to a large extent from Twin Turbo technology, the use of two turbochargers for the first time on an eight-cylinder engine serving to boost both engine output and torque with maximum efficiency. Each of the two turbochargers supplies compressed air to four cylinders at a time, ensuring particular spontaneity and a direct reaction to the gas pedal.
As with the straight-six featuring Twin Turbo technology, the "turbo lag" typical of a turbocharged engine with conventional technology, that is the time until the turbocharger builds up its boost, is virtually eliminated through the combination of two small turbos and the direct injection calibration.
A further advantage is that the engine revs up smoothly, maintaining its high torque consistently throughout an unusually broad range of engine speed. In its power and performance characteristics, therefore, the engine is comparable to a significantly larger normal-aspirated engine while offering the advantage of much lower weight and reduced package size.
Not only are the dimensions and weight of the new V8 unusually modest, but the fuel consumption is also exceptionally low for an engine of this caliber. A significant factor contributing to the superior fuel economy is double-VANOS infinite camshaft management, a technology characteristic of BMW engines. Indeed, this technology is also one of the reasons why the V8 - over and above its superior fuel economy - develops exceptionally high torque from low engine speeds.
High Precision Injection also plays a key role in the efficient use of fuel. This second generation of direct gasoline injection uses piezo-injectors positioned directly next to the spark plugs in the cylinder head and delivering fuel into the combustion chambers at a pressure of 2900psi. The advantage is extremely precise dosage of fuel, with the further benefit of reduced emissions and improved engine acoustics.
The second version of the BMW X6 boasts the highly acclaimed twin turbo, inline-six cylinder engine from the 135i, 335i and 535i: Maximum output is 300hp from an engine capacity of 3.0 liters. This superior power is maintained consistently between 5800 and 6250rpm, with maximum torque of 300 lb-ft provided from 1400-5000rpm. This gives the six-cylinder superior power and performance from an unusually early point on a gasoline engine, subsequently maintaining this high power throughout a broad range of engine speed.