BMW X6 xDrive30d 2011 Review

Price Guide (recommended price before statutory & delivery charges): $109,900
Options fitted to test car (not included in above price): Sports Package $5000, Light Alloy Wheels in Black $400, Five Seat Option $700, Electric Tilt/Slide Sunroof $3500
Crash rating: Five-star
Fuel: Diesel
Claimed fuel economy (L/100km): 7.4
CO2 emissions (g/km): 195
Also consider: Audi Q7 3.0 TDI, Mercedes-Benz M-Class, Porsche Cayenne Diesel, Range Rover Sport Diesel

It's big, it's brash, and it's ostentatious and - to this writer at least - it is absolutely fabulous.  I am talking about the BMW X6 xDrive30d -- the most affordable, most fuel efficient variant of the Bavarian brand's decidedly divisive 'Sports Activity Coupe' line-up.

Introduced locally this July the X6 xDrive30d joins the entry end of the four model X6 range. At a whisker under $110,000 it's not what you'd call cheap, but who said making a statement ever was?

As the nomenclature suggests, the xDrive30d offers all-wheel drive and a 3.0-litre turbodiesel six-cylinder engine developing 180kW/540Nm. The sheer volume of torque on offer, combined with a slick-shifting eight-speed automatic means the hefty unit can accelerate from standstill to triple figures in 7.5 seconds - rapid for a relatively large unit.

A decisive and smooth shifting eight-speed automatic transmission responds directly to throttle response while also kerbing fuel consumption. Fuel economy is said to average 7.4L/100km, we achieved 8.6.

There are quicker models available in the range, but given our prosaic speed limits and the imposing capability of this highly efficient diesel, it's hardly worth the expenditure. And, considering Dynamic Performance Control is standard on the 30d, the handling experienced from this base model is on par with its dearer brethren.

Indeed, on snaking country roads BMW's X6 xDrive30d feels smaller than its considerable footprint would have you believe. The car is surprisingly agile and aggressively confident (when surface conditions allow). The combination of firmer suspension and low rolling resistance tyres do however mean there is a limit to all this grip. While corrugated corners and a slick surface will have you grappling for a handful of opposite lock, the car's stability control chimes in appropriately when required.

Addressing the X6's assumed lack of versatility, BMW now offer a five seat option which at $700 isn't cheap, but stretches the vehicle's capability should you really need the space. Up back, headroom is better than you'd expect for a coupe-like body shape, but mayn't suit taller passengers or lanky teens – an X5 may be a better option for those buyers.

Conversely, cargo space is more than adequate, and with thanks to a 60:40 split fold rear seat, will cover most applications.

A well-appointed interior with a high-spec equipment list wants for nothing outside of seat heaters as standard and, at cost, is available with just about every option one could conceivably wish for (the Top View camera system is a particular favourite).

If you don't need the out-and-out practicality of a traditional SUV, but don't want to compromise on sedan-like drivability or a high riding position, the X6 xDrive30d could well fit a niche you never knew existed.

Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at http://www.carsales.mobi/