SPARTANBURG, S.C. – BMW raised the bar, again, on performance and technology with the new X6 crossover activity vehicle that is getting its worldwide press introduction now and comes available for U.S. delivery later in April. The X6 has two BMW technology firsts: Dynamic Performance Control, or torque vectoring, and the 400-hp, twin-turbo V8 engine. Based on how it looks from the outside and feels (and drives) from the inside, the X6 appears somewhat more like an X5 with a sloping roofline than a 6 Series with xDrive and raised ride height. The price also is more X5-like, starting at $53,275, although if you go wild on the options checklist, you can have an $80,000 BMW.
Vermilion Red BMW X6.
BMW is running two weeks of worldwide press introductions in and around Spartanburg, S.C., where the X6 will be built. American scribes are placed in separate waves on account of different X6 types being available elsewhere, most notably diesel variants that will be built in the U.S. and the put on ships going everywhere else.
“It looks better in person than in the photos” is the critic’s stock in trade for homely vehicles, say, the Pontiac Aztek. With the X6, looks-better-in-person really is true. That and because the design grows on you over time. Not to say that you’ll necessarily fall in love in 30 minutes. And regardless of what they write for public consumption – journalists often are cynical in private and then become somewhat milder for public consumption -- the barroom-conversation view of my colleagues in the first wave of U.S. journalists was mixed when it came to appreciating the profile of the X6. It’s not an easy design to love and the cynics doubt how many people will pay more for what is basically an X5 – the private viewpoint of several writers – with less passenger room.
--------------------------------------------------------BMW X6 introduction: linksBMW X6 reviews: what others sayBMW X6 U.S. market press release BMW X6 initial pricing (April 2008)-------------------------------------------------------X6 yin and yang The design looks better if you approach from the front– the aggressive kidney grille (black fins on the xDrive35i, titanium color on the xDrive50i), headlights cut into the hood, big air scoops, and the size of the massive wheels and tires that go all the way up to 315/35-20 tires on 20-by-11-inch wheels. It also helps if you think of the roofline as being a tribute to the 6 Series rather than an attempt to make the X5 into a fastback SUV. There are other cues that depart from the X5: powerful wheel arch contours, side panels split by two lines converging near the front and providing a wedge shape, as well as BMW trademark concave/convex surfaces. A lighter color edge on the lower part of the bumper helps emphasize the X6 ride height. In other words, the yin of the X5 meets than yang of the 6 Series.
BMW offers the X6 in 10 colors, with Vermilion Red exclusive to the X6. They are: Black Sapphire, Deep Sea Blue, Mineral Silver, Monaco Blue, Space Gray, Tasman Green, Titanium Silver, and Vermilion Red metallic; and Alpine White and Jet Black non-metallic.
Inside, the front is spacious and not unlike an X5, with plenty of seating and trim choices, the X5-orginated electronic shifter plus paddle shifters, two reasonably sized cupholders in the console, and the LCD display mounted at the top of the center stack (8.5 inches in a 16:9 aspection ratio with navigation systems, 6.5 inches without). iDrive is on all X6’s and it’s unchanged from other BMWs. A pair of padded knee bolsters on the sides of the console is helpful during cornering. The side pocket storage bins are big.
In back, headroom is acceptable the more you’re under 6 feet tall. The twin buckets are separated by a big console with two more cupholders, multi-level storage trays, and a lot of space given over to an ashtray. The space problem is fore-and-aft – you’ll wish you had another three inches of legroom in back. The luggage area is massive, no surprise, since it’s basically the X5 cargo bay and there’s no third-row seat.
Standard interior finish on the X6 is titanium trim while no-cost options are brushed aluminum, dark bamboo, or dark wood. Leather comes standard, no surprise for a $50K vehicle. Your choices include: the standard Nevada Leather in Sand Beige, Chateau Red, Oyster, Saddle Brown, Black; Alcantara/Leather (no extra charge) in Chateau Red or Black; Perforated Nevada Leather (for optional vented seats) in Sand Beige or Black; and premium Nappa Leather ($1,000 extra) in Sand Beige or Black.
$20K in options packages and accessories The xDrive 35i lists at $53,275 (including $775 shipping) while the xDrive50i stickers at $63,775. That’s only the starting point. There are seven options packages and nearly a dozen standalone options.
The Premium Package (ZPP) that will be on virtually every X6, runs $1,750, and includes BMW Assist plus a half-dozen nice-to-have features that probably should be on every X6: garage door opener, auto dimming mirrors, lumbar support, storage package, compass, and ambient light.
The ZCW Cold Weather Package, $900, includes heated front seats (add $350 for the rears), heated steering wheel, headlight washers, and a ski bag. Any X6 sold in northern regions will likely have ZCW, too.
The Sport Package (ZSP) runs $3,600 (xDrive35i) or $3,100 (xDrive50i) and includes 19-inch wheels and electronic damping control. 20-inch wheels are $950 extra.
BMW rolled the $1,900 navigation system and $400 backup camera into the $2,000 Technology Package ZTP, which means BMW is ever so slightly bringing down the cost of navigation at a time when standalone portable GPS systems are in freefall. BMW cites voice activation and real time traffic information as pats of ZTP, but that’s really part of the navigation system.
The ZRC Rear Climate Package, $900, provides four-zone climate control (meaning separate controls for left rear and right rear), side window blinds, and privacy glass.
Standalone options include active steering, keyless entry and start, soft close doors, auto open and close tailgate, running boards, and head up display. I counted $21,245 in available options packages and accessories on the xDrive 35i.
Entertainment optionsBeyond the base audio system that includes a line-in jack, AM/FM/weather band radio, and a single-disc CD player, you can add $4,645 in audio-video options. You may not like how much you’ll have to pay for a factory-installed iPod adapter.
The ZPP Premium Sound Package, $2,000, includes premium hi-fi with 16 speakers, a six-disc DVD changer, and an iPod / USB adapter. You cannot order the iPod adapter separately as part of the Spartanburg factory build, although it is listed at the BMW USA website as a $320 dealer-install accessory (plus installation). Forcing the iPod feature into a $2K package is likely to cause BMW a bit of pain in the form of caustic buyer feedback, and deservedly so: even $320 for an iPod adapter (alone) is pricy. Also, forcing users to take the multi-disc changer to get a better speaker system is at odds with the trends in car audio entertainment: more watts and nice speakers as a separate option, iPod adapter as part of the base price or an affordable option, and possibly an optional hard disk to store music as well as navigation data. But not a multi-disc changer. That’s so nineties.
Separate options include Sirius satellite radio for $595 (but $495 plus installation is ordered as a dealer accessory, according to bmwusa.com), HD Radio for $350, and a console-mount rear entertainment system for $1,700. HD Radio continues to be a factory-only option.
For buyers who want their X6 to be pleasurable for long-distance cruising, entertainment may be the part of the X6 that creates the most discontent: forced bundling of options and high prices for satellite radio, HD radio, and rear seat entertainment; unavailability of a hard disk music changer; and direct support only for iPod audio.
How the X6 drives, how DPC worksDynamic Performance Control (DPC) represents BMW’s take on torque vectoring pioneered by Acura/Honda with Super Handling-All Wheel Drive. There are differences, most notably that the BMW works in off-throttle conditions. In an Acura MDX, when the pucker factor strikes as you sail too fast into a corner and reflexively lift off the gas, SH-AWD isn’t so super. DPC is standard on the X6 and works beyond BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system that splits power (torque) between front and rear wheels. It splits, or vectors, the torque between the rear wheels. The goal is to keep you on the road by correcting the tendency of 5,000-pound SUVs to plough ahead, or understeer, in unbalanced situations.
The ZF-supplied differential employs a mechatronic (mechanical and electronic) system: two planetary gearsets, multi-plate clutches, and an electric motor. The planetary gears are between the differential and the road wheels (but still inside the differential). The planetary gears spin at slightly different speeds (about 10%, BMW says). If the X6’s sensors indicate understeer, the electric motor engages the multiplate clutch (just outboard of the planetary gears) and redirects power from the planetary gear spinning faster to the gearset spinning slower, redirecting torque.
That’s the technology. In practice, on the wetted-down Michelin Proving Grounds in Laurens, S.C., and on a beautiful road course, the X6’s road manners were impeccable. The X6 seemed calm and in control most all the time. One exception: When I went too fast into a decreasing radius turn on the wet course, the car steered wide with a good deal of mecatronic chattering and grumbling from the undercarriage. Moral of story: Technology can only help so much when 5,000 pounds goes too fast into a turn.
On the highway: Don't look back On highways and city streets, perhaps the biggest surprise is how much rear vision is compromised by the sloping roof and rear window. The view via the mirror is pretty much limited to what's in the lane directly behind you. You'll definitely be using the largish side mirrors a lot. And you'll just as definitely want to get the $400 backup camera (also part of the $2,000 Technology Package).
Engines: BMW’s twin-turbo V8 The 300-hp twin-turbo, inline six engine that will be on most X6’s is well-known and appreciated on the 1 Series, 3 Series, and 5 Series. In the xDrive35i, BMW says it will reach 60 mph in 6.5 seconds. Fuel economy (premium) is 15 mpg city, 20 mpg highway, 17 mpg combined. There’s also a diesel version that will be available, but not for the U.S., at least not this year.
Acceptance of the brilliant technology of the new 400-hp V8 will probably be dimmed in the era of $3.50-a-gallon premium gasoline. The 4.4-liter engine sticks the two turbochargers in the vee between the two cylinder banks. It uses high pressure precision injection and generates peak torque of 450 lb-ft available over a range of 1,750–4,500 rpm. Acceleration is rated at 5.3 seconds 0-60. EPA fuel economy hasn’t yet been reported, but city mileage is likely to be in the low- to mid-teens, since the xDrive50i outweighs the xDrive35i by 375 pounds (5269 vs. 4894) and has a reduced drag coefficience, 0.37 vs. 0.35. There is no variable cylinder shutdown, which on non-BMW vehicles increases economy by 1-2 mpg. The one transmission is an automatic six-speed. BMW was cryptic about whether the new double clutch gearbox (DCG) debuting on the M3 could handle the X6 engines (which output less horsepower).
The X6 naming conventions A number of questions were raised about the naming of the xDrive35i and xDrive50i, such as why it isn’t simpler: X635i and X650i, or perhaps more correctly, X630it and X644it, reflecting the actual displacement . On these matters, BMW had its talking points well rehearsed. BMW has in recent years evolved from citing actual displacement to (more or less) relative performance. Also, BMW notes, X650i already is in use as the name of a Samsung cellphone. (On the other hand, some trademark experts say it’s not necessarily a violation when the same term is on completely different products when there’s no chance for confusion, especially if the term follows a pre-established convention with a maker’s other products.) As for the inclusion of “xDrive” into the name, well, that’s tough if journalists have to type a few more characters in a product name.
BMW X6 in summary The BMW X6 will find its devotees. Performance is outstanding on wet and dry pavement. Nothing was mentioned about off-roading the X6, which means you’ll do fine of the flat gravel roads leading to ski area condos. The looks are unique and some buyers will appreciate the opportunity to be the pioneers (as in: first on the block) with a new BMW design. Storage space is more than adequate and you really can carry four passengers, not just two, in comfort.
Of the $10,500 difference between the xDrive35i and xDrive50, $3,100 can be attributed to the navigation system and comfort seats that come standard on the xDrive50i. If you drive 10,000 miles a year, you’ll probably pay $750 a year extra in fuel costs if you opt for the xDrive50i. That’s almost a rounding error compared to the purchase price, but that and the perception – the buyer’s perception, perhaps also the buyer’s neighbors and business colleagues – that a V8 has negative green cachet and that may steer more buyers toward the xDrive35i.
How well both X6 models sell depends on how much the vehicle is perceived as a brilliant marriage of two sporting concepts – X5 and 6 Series – as opposed to the more blunt view that it’s a variant of the X5, priced like an X5, with a drivetrain like an X5, but with the sloping roofline and some bold styling cues in front that draw form the 6 Series. As with the the Mercedes-Benz CLS four-door coupe that is really an E-Class with a dramatic roofline, visually the X6 stands by itself. There is no mistaking the X6 for anything else available now or in the near future. Let’s see how long it takes BMW wannabes, especially from the Pacific region, to start knocking off the X6 design. Many people criticized the high trunk line (the so-called Bangle butt) design that originated on the 7 Series, but lots of designers immediately emulated it on many a Camry, Lexus, and Altima. BMW may once again be ahead of the times. Bear that in mind when you hear X6 and the emperor’s new clothes spoken in the same breath.
BMW X6 specifications Dimensions: 192.0 inches long, 78.1 inches wide, 66.5 inches high (4877x1983x1690 mm)
Wheelbase: 115.5 inchs (2933 mm)
Curb weight: 4894 lbs (xDrive35i), 5269 lbs (xDrive50i)
Transmission: Six-speed automatic, paddle shifters
Effective head room, front: 38.3 inches (973 mm)
Effective head room, rear: 37.2 inches (946 mm)
BMW X6 Suggested Retail Prices2008 Model YearX6 xDrive35i (base price U.S.A.) $53,275
(Including $775 destination and handling)
BMW X6 xDrive35i (base price USA) $63,775
(Including $775 destination and handling)
Options
(If two prices listed: X6 xDrive35i / xDrive50i)
217 Active Steering $1,400
(Requires ZSP Sport Package)
316 Automatic tailgate opening and closing $500
322 Comfort Access system $1,000
323 Soft close automatic doors $600
328 Running boards $300
3AG Rear-view camera $400
(Included in xDrive 35i ZTP Technology Package)
456 Multi-contour seats $1,200 / STD
(Included in xDrive35i ZAV Active Ventilated Seat Package)
(In combination with xDrive35i ZSP Sport Package) $1,200
481 Sport seats ZSP / NC
(Requires ZSP Sport Package on xDrive35i)
494 Heated front seats $500
(Included in ZCW Cold Weather package)
496 Heated rear seats $350
(Requires ZCW Cold Weather Package or 494 heated front seats)
4AD Brushed Aluminum trim NC
4AZ Dark Bamboo wood trim NC
4BN Dark wood trim NC
609 Navigation system $1,900 / STD
(Included in ZTP Technology Package)
610 Head-up Display $1,200
(Requires 609 navigation or ZTP Technology Package)
639 BMW Assist $750
(Included in ZPP Premium Package)
653 HD radio $350
655 Satellite radio $595
6FF Rear seat entertainment $1,700
Colors / Upholsteries
Non-Metallic paint STD
Jet Black
Alpine White
Metallic paint STD
Vermilion Red
Tasman Green
Deep Sea Blue
Titanium Silver
Space Gray
Monaco Blue
Black Sapphire
Mineral Silver
GH Alcantara/Leather NC
(Requires 481 sport seats)
Chateau Red
Black
LU Nevada Leather STD
Sand Beige
Chateau Red
Oyster
Saddle Brown
Black
LV Perforated Nevada Leather
(Requires ZAV Active Ventialation)
Sand Beige
Black
NA Nappa Leather $1,000
Sand Beige
Black
(NA is a BMW code, not “not available”-Ed.)
Packages
ZAV Active ventilated seat package $2,100 $/ 1,100
(Requires ZCW Cold Weather Package or 494 heated seats on xDrive 35i)
(Requires Perforated Nevada Leather on xDrive35i)
451 Active seat for driver
453 Front ventilated seats
456 Multi-contour seats (included xDrive50i)
ZCW Cold Weather Package $900
248 Heated steering wheel
464 Ski bag
494 Heated front seats
502 Retractable headlight washers
ZPP Premium Package $1,750
319 Universal Garage Door Opener
430 Auto-dimming interior and exterior mirrors
431 Auto-dimming rearview mirror
488 Lumbar support
493 Storage package
4NA Digital compass mirror
563 Ambient light package
639 BMW Assist
ZPS Premium Sound Package $2,000
677 Premium hi-fi system
696 6-disc DVD Changer
6FL iPod and USB adapter
ZRC Rear Climate Package $900
417 Rear manual side window shades
4NB 4-zone automatic climate control
761 Privacy glass
ZSP Sport Package xDrive35i $3,600
2RY 19" Light-alloy wheels Star Spoke (style212) with run-flat all-season tires
(19x9.0, 255/50 R19) (start of production 5/08)
or 2LE 20" Light-alloy wheels Y-Spoke (style 214) with mixed run-flat performance tires (20x10.0, 275/40 R20 front and 20x11.0, 315/35 R20 rear) +$950
2VA Electronic Damping Control
481 Sport seats or 456 Multi-contour seats (+$1,250)
760 Shadowline trim
775 Anthracite headliner
840 Increased top speed limiter
ZSP Sport Package xDrive50i $3,100
2S6 19" Light-alloy wheels Star Spoke (style258 with run-flat all-season tires (19x9.0, 255/50 R19)
or 2SK 20" Light-alloy wheels Star Spoke (style259) with mixed run-flat perf. Tires (20x10.0, 275/40 R20 front and 20x11.0, 315/35 R20 rear) +$950
2VA Electronic Damping Control
760 Shadowline trim
775 Anthracite headliner
840 Increased top speed limiter
ZTP Technology Package, $2,000 / NA
3AG Rear-view camera
609 Navigation system
620 Voice activation
6UH Real Time Traffic Information
Dealer-install accessories (Prices don't include installation, painting (eg body kits - not the case here), installation parts)
iPod interface adapter, $320
Sirius satellite radio, $495
Rubber floor mats, $81
Prices effective February 28, 2008 (published April 5, 2008), U.S. Models
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