Second-generation BMW X6 (F16) makes global debut
BMW has pulled the sheets off its second generation X6 Sports Activity Coupe, carrying the torch of what was once a controversial model that quickly became an iconic and commercial success.
Codenamed F16 internally by BMW, the new X6 is built on the same underpinnings as the all-new F15 X5, but appearance-wise, it unsurprisingly sticks closely to the styling template laid by its predecessor.
Aesthetic enhancements are focused largely on the details, where we see the current-generation interpretation of BMW’s kidney grille take pride of place on the front fascia, with raised front fog lamps identifying it as a model of the X family. All variants of the X6 come standard with 19-inch light alloy wheels and bi-xenon headlights. Adaptive LED headlights and 20-inch rims are available as optional upgrades.
Inside, the X6’s roster of standard equipment include paddle shifters for its standard 8-speed sports automatic transmission, leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control (upgradable to four-zone), and the Driving Assistant safety package as part of BMW ConnectedDrive.
Functions in the DA package include Lane Departure Warning and autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian detection. An optional Driving Assistant Plus upgrade adds Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function that makes the X6 able to drive almost autonomously in a traffic jam – the driver still needs to keep at least one hand on the steering wheel, however. Active park assist is another feature available as an optional upgrade.
Moving on to the juicy bits, BMW will launch the all-new X6 with a trio of high performance powertrains that will spearhead the line-up with another two variants to follow next year. The selection comes from the upper end of the X5’s engine range, and headlining the line-up will be the 4.4-litre twin turbo V8 powering the X6 xDrive50i with 450hp and 650Nm.
Flanking the xDrive50i is a pair of 3.0-litre diesels derived from the same N57 block, fitted with a single variable geometry turbo in the 258hp/560Nm xDrive30d and triple turbochargers in the insane M50d which has 381hp and 740Nm on tap. Accelerating from 0 to 100kph in 5.2 seconds, the X6 M50d sips fuel to the tune of 6.6 l/100km in the European combined test cycle.
Joining the line-up in the spring of 2015 will be the petrol-driven xDrive35i and diesel-powered xDrive40d variants, both sporting turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-6 powerplants. Our money is on the xDrive35i, which continues with the existing 306hp/400Nm N55B30 engine, being the sole variant to be offered in the Malaysian market.
All variants of the X6 are fitted standard with xDrive all-wheel drive and an 8-speed sports automatic transmission with paddle shifters. A highly-regarded transmission amongst the motoring community, the ZF-sourced ‘box comes further enhanced with satellite-aided shifting to optimize traction and maximize engine braking whilst approaching corners. The transmission is also fitted with launch control.
Sharing underpinnings with the X5, the F16 X6 is independently sprung all-round with double wishbones up front and BMW’s patented integral multi-link axle at the rear. Interestingly, customers can not only specify adaptive dampers with their X6, they have a few types to choose from as well. Those who tick the M Sport package will get a bespoke Adaptive M suspension (fitted standard in the M50d), whilst regular variants have a choice between a Comfort and a Dynamic package. Better still, these two packages can be combined into one Professional package.
KON
Pictures: Official BMW release.
