2011 BMW X6 Review

BMW X6

2011 BMW X6 Review

The 2011 BMW X6 packs eye-catching styling and high-octane performance into the body of a midsize SUV. The BMW X6 is a small, fun-to-drive SUV. Its BMW badge guarantees a high-quality interior and sporty handling. BMW calls the X6 a sports activity coupe, reinforcing its identity as a SUV and a car.

BMW also introduced a high-performance BMW X6 M model for 2011, which is reviewed separately. The xDrive35i’sgets BMW’s newest inline six-cylinder engine that helps improve fuel economy without sacrificing power. Opt for the 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline six-cylinder engine and the field grows larger. (XDrive50i model tested).

Engine response is immediate, with expected, but minimal turbo-lag. Dynamic Performance Control is another breakthrough, making its world debut in any BMW. Although the X6 is all-wheel-drive with variable distribution of power from front to rear, the new DPC enables more precise control between the two rears wheels-left to right. BMW has pioneered the new niche of Sport Activity Vehicle, which apparently implies an active lifestyle and the vehicle to carry all your “activities” in it. They call this new one a “sports activity coupe.” Go rearward and things take a decidedly sportier turn, sloping upward into a “power wedge” design. Our test vehicle was riding on 20-inch Dunlop SP Sport Maxx tires, which did a nice job of filling the wheel wells.

Front seat accommodations are typically all business, as expected, offering miles and hours of non-fatigued driving. The bolstered front seats hold driver and passenger alike firmly in place during rapid lane changes and spirited driving situations.

The cargo hold can accommodate four golf bags, according to BMW media information.
BMW likes to call its BMW X6 a Sports Activity Coupe, but perhaps fastback SUV would be a more appropriate description. Current BMW X6

The BMW X6 comes in two trim levels: xDrive 35i and xDrive50i. The xDrive35i's 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 pumps out a frisky 300 horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque, while the xDrive50i's 4.4-liter turbocharged V8 bristles with 400 hp and 450 lb-ft of torque.

All X6 models are equipped with all-wheel drive and a trick torque distribution system called Dynamic Performance Control. In performance testing, our editors appreciated the X6's sprightly performance, especially in xDrive50i trim. The BMW X6 makes sense for well-heeled buyers who want an SUV but care more about looks and performance than utility.