BMW X6 Xdrive 50i 2009 Review

BMW X6 Xdrive50i

What we liked
>> Enormous torque
>> Size-defying handling
>> Sportscar performance figures

OVERVIEW
It may look like an off-roader but the BMW X6 is all about performance and the German firm has just unleashed its most potent performer yet. The Xdrive50i may sound like a computer password but it packs some serious hardware under the bonnet in the shape of a 4.4-litre twin turbo V8.

BMW Australia has taken a performance path with the X6, so the 50i completes the local X6 line-up, sitting above the twin-turbo petrol (Xdrive35i) and turbodiesel straight-sixes (Xdrive35d).

The engine is the most powerful motor fitted to a non-M model and generates a 0-100km/h time for the X6 range-topper that is as quick as the 335i Coupe and Porsche Cayman S! Little wonder, the X6 50i is happy to do battle with the Porsche Cayenne GTS and Range Rover Sport Supercharged V8.

The common complaint about the X6 has been it's the answer to a question nobody asked. Well, after five months on sale locally the 35i and 35d have been the answer to a question asked by 288 Australians. Despite the softening market BMW is hoping that it can sell another 500 in 2009, with a target of 125 for the 50i.

PRICE AND EQUIPMENT
As you'd expect from a range-topping model it comes equipped with a range-topping price. Starting at $145,000, the 50i represents an extra $24,470 over the 35d and $30,295 op top of the 35i. Aside from the engine, the 50i comes with several other changes, both inside and out, to justify the extra dollars.

Externally the 50i cops a titanium-coloured kidney grille, satin-finish window surrounds, satin chrome side strip, two rectangular exhaust pipes and 20-inch five-spoke alloy wheels. Internally the equipment's been boosted and includes electronically adjustable Comfort Seats with lumbar support for the front row, four-zone climate control and a 16-speaker audio system.

But it's underneath that the real changes lie. Adaptive Drive (a $7945 option on the other two models) that combines Dynamic Drive active roll stabilisation with Electronic Damper Control and self-levelling pneumatic suspension is standard and represents a huge advantage for the 50i.

The rest of the car is identical in specification to the 35i and 35d (more here).

MECHANICAL
Let's start with the obvious; the engine. The twin-turbo petrol V8 pumps out 300kW of power at 5500rpm and a seriously impressive 600Nm from as low as 1750rpm. To put that in perspective the 4.8-litre V8 in the Cayenne GTS produces 298kW, but 'only' 500Nm.

BMW has unloaded its entire arsenal of technology for this new motor. It uses direct petrol injection and a pair of turbochargers running at 1.8 bar to get maximum performance from the engine, but keep fuel consumption and emissions as low as possible. Fuel economy of 12.5L/100km on a combined cycle and 299g/km CO2 emissions may not sound spectacular but are good for the class.

The engine is mated to a six-speed automatic gearbox with steering wheel-mounted paddle-shifts. Those familiar with BMW will be accustomed to this unit. It features a regular Drive, Sports mode and manual control.

As with the other X6 models the real key to the car's remarkable performance is the state-of-the-art rear differential. Labelled Dynamic Performance Control the system works in conjunction with the xDrive all-wheel-drive system to distribute drive across the rear axle to improve handling. Coupled with Adaptive Drive and self-levelling suspension, the 50i handles with agility and composure previously unthinkable for such a large, high-riding car. (To view a video on how the X6's 'smart' drive system works click here)

But power and handling are nothing if you can't stop. To that end BMW have fitted huge 385mm ventilated disc brakes front and rear to make sure the 50i pulls up after reaching its top speed of 250km/h. If there is a weak point to the giant performance of this giant 'sportscar' it could sit here...

PACKAGING & SAFETY
There is no danger of mistaking the X6 as a light car but it does weigh significantly less than its direct rivals. The 50i tips the scales at 2190kg; 130kg lighter than the Cayenne GTS and 382kg less than the Range Rover.

The rest of the car is as you find on the 35i and 35d (more here). One gripe though is BMW's failure to make the cabin feel any different on this premium model. While there is nothing wrong with the interior, it doesn't offer anything that stands-out for the extra money you're asked to spend.

As is the case with the other models (see above links), the 50i includes all the latest and greatest safety features. That includes Dynamic Stability Control and anti-lock brakes to stop you having a crash and six-airbags if you do have one.

COMPETITORS
It's hard to judge what the true rivals to X6 50i are given that BMW insists it is in a whole new class; the Sports Activity Coupe.

In simple terms the car's rivals are any of the performance-oriented SUVs, a list that includes the previously mentioned Cayenne GTS and Turbo models and Range Rover V8 Sport but also the Mercedes Benz AMG ML63, Volkswagen Touareg R50 and BMW's own X5 Xdrive48i.

But in reality the X6 50i sits in a class of its own. It lacks the practicality of a traditional SUV (it's a four-seater for a start -- though so is the GTS) but offers performance and handling that the others don't. Its unique looks make it stand out in the crowd and will appeal to those who want to make a statement.

ON THE ROAD
It's best to forget any pre-conceived notions about what you think a SUV is capable of when driving the 50i. It may be big and look like something out of the Dakar Rally, but it is a real tarmac terror.

The thrust from the engine is addictive and propels the 2000kg-plus monster to sportscar speed in no time at all; it's over half a second quicker 0-100km/h than the Cayenne GTS. With peak torque kicking in at 1750rpm, once you are underway the 50i feels like it will accelerate forever.

The turbos are so subtle that lag is all but eliminated and you almost forget they are there; except for the shove in your back when you move your right foot. The lack of intrusion from the turbos leaves you free to enjoy the lovely soundtrack the 4.4-litre V8 produces.

Once you throw the 50i at some corners it's best to slot the gearshift across into manual mode and leave the engine to run high into the rev range to get the most out of the 300kW available. Unfortunately even in manual mode the gearbox's brain doesn't relax and at times you will find that it won't hold the gears you select with the paddles.

The extra weight of the V8 doesn't have any adverse effect on the handling either. Turn-in is sharp and direct and thanks to the trick rear differential the 50i is capable of carrying massive mid-corner speed for a car of its size.

Change of direction is equally striking as the launch drive's trip up and down the Great Dividing Ranges trademark switchback roads highlighted. The active suspension systems serve to keep the car flat and planted in the twists on smooth tarmac.

But that's not to say the car is without flaws. On bumpier roads the car will buck and jump in the same way all SUVs do when driven hard. And while the BMW boffins have managed to hide the car's weight with vast quantities of power and clever electronic wizardry, you can't escape the fact that a 2190kg car driven at speed will hurt the brakes. After a hard run you need to be aware of the stress you're putting the brakes under. On the test loop we did experience noticeable fade.

Love it or loathe it, you have to respect the X6 5.0.

BMW has done a brilliant job of making such a large car, not only fast, but also so enjoyable to drive.