BMW has taken the covers off the third-generation X6 SUV. The all-new model features revamped styling and engines, and will rival the Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe, the Audi Q8 and the Porsche Cayenne Coupe.
The new model sits alongside the recently launched fourth-generation X5 and new X7 in the Bavarian firm’s growing SUV range. The launch line-up will include the petrol-engined xDrive40i and M50i and the diesel-powered xDrive30d and M50d.
Heading the petrol line-up is the M50i, with a turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 with 530hp and 750Nm of torque. It has a claimed 0-100kph time of 4.3sec and a limited top speed of 250kph. The xDrive40i uses a 3.0-litre, in-line, six-cylinder turbocharged unit, delivering 340hp and 450Nm of torque for a 0-100kph time of 5.5sec.
The M50d runs a 3.0-litre, inline-six quad-turbocharged engine developing 400hp and 760Nm of torque. It is claimed to reach 100kph in 5.2sec, with a top speed of 250kph. The xDrive30d gets a 3.0-litre inline-six turbocharged diesel with 265hp and 620Nm of torque, delivering a 0-100kph time of 6.5sec and a top speed of 230kph. All engines are driven through an 8-speed torque-converter-equipped gearbox.
The X6 features an evolutionary design that’s similar to the X5, with a bold new interpretation of BMW’s signature kidney grille, angular headlights and a broad-shouldered body; it is more angular in appearance. At the rear, the new BMW shares its look with the second-generation X4, most notably in the shape of its rear lights and heavily angled tailgate. At 4,935mm, the new model is 26mm longer than the previous X6, with the 2,975mm wheelbase stretched by 42mm. It’s also 15mm wider, at 2,004mm. Boot capacity remains 580 litres (65 litres fewer than the X5), which increases to 1,530 litres with the 40/20/20 seats folded.
The interior design is largely shared with the X5, featuring leather upholstery as standard. It also receives new high-definition digital displays for the instruments and infotainment system.
The suspension of the X6 is based on the X5’s, with double wishbones up front and a multilink setup at the rear, together with the latest incarnation of BMW’s Dynamic Damper Control system as standard. Adaptive M Suspension Professional, which brings active roll bars and rear-wheel steering, is optional. Air suspension, offering 80mm of ride height adjustment and automatic self-levelling, as well as an off-road package for non-M models with four additional driving modes, is also offered.
BMW has provided its latest SUV with a wide range of driver assistance systems – including the latest incarnation of the Collision and Pedestrian Warning with City Braking function, which is now capable of alerting the driver when a cyclist is detected – as standard. As on the X5, Active Cruise Control with a stop-and-go function is among the options.
BMW is expected to launch the new X6 in India sometime next year, as the current-gen model is still on sale. It is available in a single xDrive35i M Sport variant that is priced at Rs 92.20 lakh (ex-showroom, India). The carmaker will also launch its X7 and new 7 Series models here on July 25, 2019.
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