BMW X6 2015 Review

It might not be most universally admired vehicle in the BMW range – and it may not be the strongest seller – but BMW persists with its X5-derived X6 Sports Activity Coupe (SAV).

Even though annual X6 sales can be counted in hundreds, rather than thousands – as is the case with the X5 and X3 SUVs – the "world's first Sports Activity Coupe" continues to be tasked with helping define BMW as an innovative style leader.

Described as the second-generation of the vehicle that originally arrived here seven years ago, the latest version of the X6 is really an extensive update that lifts standard-spec levels, ups engine power (on three of the five powerplants at least) and brings subtle styling refinements.

Looking closely, it's clear the X6 benefits from subtle changes – also seen on the X5 – that take some of the visual bulk out of the side view through a new character line that runs front to rear above the door sills. There's also a customary rework of the front and rear-ends that, which bumps overall length by 32mm.

The latest X6 is also marginally wider and taller. Cargo capacity also grows, now 1525 litres (+75).

The upgrade's effectiveness is evident in the fact that although the $115,400 (before ORCs) xDrive30d model might be the entry-level X6, you could easily be excused for thinking otherwise.

Riding on 20-inch alloy wheels the X6 xDrive30d is fitted-out as standard with adaptive LED headlights, sat-nav, leather swaddling for the seats, doors and instrument panel, and dual-zone climate-control. It also includes head-up display, lane-departure warning, "Surround View" camera with 360-degree rear, top and side views, and collision and pedestrian warning systems.

Of course cruise control with braking function and idle-stop are also included in the base X6 which, from the inside at least, looks and feels quite plush. It's luxurious enough to stand, cringe-free, alongside its more expensive variants (see list at bottom of page).

Mind you, the test X6 was optioned-up with an extra $14,700 worth of kit, items such as the $1800 M Sport package (that comes with adaptive suspension, aero body add-ons and a bit of internal and external tizzying-up), a harman/kardon audio system ($1500), sunroof ($3500), Comfort Access ($1800), lane-change warning ($1400) and BMW's auto self-parking system ($1200).

Nobody buys a standard-spec BMW.

All this helps confuse the issue of what the BMW X6 actually is. Its underpinnings duplicate the X5 and so, up to the window line, do the body panels. But it goes its own way from there with that low-set, swooping roofline to create an awkward-looking shape that is neither SUV nor four-door coupe. It might be an X5 underneath but, even moreso than its SUV wagon brethren, it's difficult imagining anyone wanting to take an X6 even a little bit off-road.

BMW undoubtedly thinks of the X6 as a fashion statement, but it's hardly a look that appeals to everybody.

It's a high-riding, spacious and bulky car (2065kg) that defies expectations with its adroit handling and tenacious road holding. It could easily have been a lumbering beast. But in spite of the subtle tugging that comes with massive 20-inch wheels, the X6 grips and points like a much smaller car.

As we said, the cabin is a roomy place to be and, if you didn't look up you'd think you were in an X5 – although checking the view through there's almost the impression that something heavy is pressing down on the roof. Rear headroom –and rearward vision – is a bit compromised as a result.

The cabin layout is pure BMW, with plenty of neat touches such as the variable LCD calibrations that grow in size as the needle points at the actual speed, the 10.2-inch centre screen and the latest-generation iDrive controller with its simple, intuitive functions.

The 190kW/560Nm 3.0-litre single-turbo-diesel is 10kW/20Nm up on its predecessor, shifting the X6 along effortlessly. 0-100km/h is dealt with in a brisk 6.7 seconds – and with the smooth-shifting eight-speed auto velvety quiet to boot.

Not unusually, we didn't match the claimed fuel consumption figure. The ADR Combined number for the X6 xDrive30d is 6.0L/100km; we averaged 8.1.

But for all its proficiency, class and comfort, the BMW X6 remains something of a conundrum. Seemingly the only reason for electing to own one is that it looks sleeker than the more practical X5. Sleek, however, doesn't necessarily mean attractive.

There is, however, a certain defiance about the X6 that appeals to some people. And therein lies a market niche that BMW, if no-one else – yet – is willing to fill.

2015 BMW X6 xDrive30d pricing and specifications:
Price: $115,400 (plus on-road costs)
Engine: 3.0-litre six-cylinder turbo-diesel
Output: 190kW/560Nm
Transmission: Eight-speed automatic
Fuel: 6.0L/100km (ADR Combined)
CO2: 159g/km (ADR Combined)
Safety Rating: Five-star ANCAP