2020 BMW X6

Roughly a decade ago, BMW took the innovative step of blending the signature attributes of a Sports Activity Vehicle with the DNA of a classical coupe - and the all-new Sports Activity Coupe (SAC) class was born. The BMW X6 was the founder member of the new category and continues to combine extrovert presence with standout performance and an edgy design to this day. More than 443,000 units of the X6 have now been sold worldwide across two model generations. The crisply expressive design language of the third-generation BMW X6 underscores its confident, commanding and muscular appearance. The interplay of advanced powertrain & chassis technology and top-class equipment features delivers a uniquely sporting yet also very comfortable driving experience. Progress is likewise the name of the game with the extensive spread of innovative operating tech and driver assistance systems. The BMW X6 is produced at BMW Plant Spartanburg in the US state of South Carolina. This centre of expertise for BMW X models also handles production of the BMW X3, BMW X4, BMW X5 and BMW X7.

Vehicle concept and design

The new BMW X6 has grown by 26 millimetres in exterior length over the outgoing model (to 4,935 mm) and by 15 mm (to 2,004 mm) in width. It now stands 6 mm lower (at 1,696 mm) and combines dynamically stretched proportions with an extremely powerful appearance, which is enhanced by a wider front track (+44 mm to 1,684 mm). The car's wheelbase has increased by 42 mm to 2,975 millimetres, and the new model also has a lower centre of gravity than its predecessor, which helps to give the new BMW X6 its exceptional agility and handling poise.

Powertrain and driving experience

The line-up of engines available for the new BMW X6 from launch includes two petrol units and a pair of diesel variants from the latest generation. Topping the X6 range is a BMW M model: the BMW X6 M50i. This ultrasporty flagship, powered by a newly developed petrol V8, is joined by another BMW M family member in the shape of the BMW X6 M50d with six-cylinder in-line diesel engine and four turbochargers. Straight-six units also see action - in the BMW X6 xDrive40i and BMW X6 xDrive30d. All models come as standard with an eight-speed Steptronic transmission, while BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive enhances dynamics and maximises traction both on the road and over loose ground.

The BMW TwinPower Turbo technology for petrol engines consists of turbocharging, High Precision Injection direct fuel injection, VALVETRONIC fully variable valve timing and Double-VANOS variable camshaft timing. The package of technology in the diesel units is made up of turbocharging and common-rail direct injection with piezo injectors. Exhaust gas treatment in the petrol models is courtesy of a gasoline particulate filter, which minimises particulate emissions. The diesel models employ BMW BluePerformance technology including a particulate filter, an oxidation catalyst, a NOx adsorption catalyst and an SCR catalyst with AdBlue injection to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions. All variants of the new BMW X6 fulfil the requirements of the EU6d-TEMP emissions standard.