BMW X6 : in a category of its own

Introducing the world’s first Sports Activity Coupé ! A free and unique interpretation of the performance and characteristics of a powerful coupé combined with the sportiest version of a BMW X model. A première !..

With the X6, the 3-letter brand is launching a new category for automobiles, a totally original concept in style and dynamic performance hitherto unknown. First, its design. It has, undeniably, the proportions of a coupé : low side windows, the line of the roof sloping gently towards the well-muscled rear, generous surfaces with modelling that alternates between concave and convex. Like all coupés, the passenger compartment hosts the driver and three passengers. The two back seats, individual, are also sizeable and fitted with built-in headrests. Here again, a sporty, natural feel presides : leather steering wheel with multi-function buttons and control palettes, a central console fitted with knee-pads for the driver and front passenger, a dashboard (in leather as an option) distinguished by round, double instruments laid out in precise graduation recalling that of racing instruments. The bodywork structure has been designed to provide maximum protection for the occupants. With, among other things, 3-point safety belts and automatic retractors for each passenger, inflatable airbags both frontal, lateral and to protect the head, plus active headrests in the event of collisions. As standard, the X6 offers the integral, intelligent BMW xDrive transmission system, and it’s the first car in the world to benefit from Dynamic Performance Control ; the one makes it possible to vary the torque between the front and rear axles, constantly adapting it to meet a given situation, the other provides for equally variable distribution of torque between the two rear wheels. As a result, one obtains higher steering precision even at low speeds and thus appreciable agility. In bends negotiated at a brisk speed, the X6 will also prove more stable, even if the driver turns the wheel rather abruptly or inadvertently takes his foot off the accelerator. On slippery or uneven ground, the Dynamic Perfomance Control guarantees constant traction. In addition to which, the car benefits from Integrated Chassis Management (ICM). Even when conditions change quickly (adherence, dryness, unexpected acceleration or breaking), the ICM responds by means of precise interventions on the xDrive, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) and Dynamic Performance Control activator systems. As in any coupé worthy of the name, the passenger compartment and trunk are totally separate. A trunk taking up to 570 litres, which is more than on classic models ; you can stash four golf-bags as well as four passengers. A fixed foldback luggage cover and the possibility of lowering the back of the rear benchseat in an asymmetric layout further add to the car’s hyper-practicality. Finally, the car’s maximum load is 1,450 litres. The exclusive options are just as innovative. On the programme, top-notch audio and navigation systems for unequalled comfort : a DVD video system for passengers at the rear, with CD and DVD loaders in the glove compartment. The X6 can contact BMW Teleservices, which range from Teleservice Calls to problem diagnosis, via BMW Teleservice which includes assistance. Complementing the Park Distance Control (PDC obstacle detector), a reversing camera is available. As for air conditioning, the X6 can be fitted with a system for individually regulated temperatures.

A champion’s engine, a coupé-like passenger compartment and a silhouette recalling that of 4WDs, the BMW X6 is a successful blend of styles. A world première that BMW has simply christened “Sports Activity Coupé”.

In the same vein : Audi Q7 : a sports car on the highway, it becomes an SUV out in the countryside. Real versatility and the pretend look of a coupé for this really racy model. Q7 V8 4.2 TDI DPF Luxe : 79,500 €.

La BMW X6 in figures :

4 motorisations : X6 xDrive 35i, 50i, 30d, 35d

Length : 4,877 m

Widht : 1,983 m

From 0 to 100 km/h : from 5,4 s to 8 s

Top speed : from 210 to 250 km/h

Consumption : from 8,2 to 12,5 l/100 km

CO2 : from 220 g to 299 g/km

Price : from 64.700 € the X6 xDrive30d Luxe and until 89.750 € the X6 xDrive50i Exclusive

By Cécile Olivéro