2009 BMW X6 xDrive35i Review

I decided to not take the X6 off-road, mainly because there was no point (and because it was so much fun on the bitumen). Although it shares some DNA with the X5 (which itself isn’t the world’s best off-roader), I don’t believe off-road ability is high on the criteria for X6 buyers.

Would I buy an X6, absolutely, but not this one. I’d go for the X6 xDrive50i V8 version ($145,000) that delivers an enormous 300kW and 600Nm. How does 0-100km/h in 5.4 seconds mixed with all the other goodies sound?

 

The interior is a mixture of gorgeous design, texture and practicality. From the sporty steering wheel to the beautiful white leather seats, and well thought out interior management, you are constantly reminded that there is a reason the X6 commands $115,000. With a 570-litre boot capacity (which opens and closes by itself) there is more than enough room to store the weeks’ shopping or a set of golf clubs.

The X6 is also available with BMW’s head up display which projects the car’s speed (or satellite navigation directions and a wide variety of other things) onto the front windscreen. A feature that stops drivers from glancing down at the instrument cluster while providing a constant and easily readable information system. This is one feature that should become mandatory in all cars.

The latest generation of iDrive is simple to use and after a few days you’ll have no troubles working things out, although I think (perhaps because I am not capable of thinking like a German), some functions seem a little counter-intuitive.

Safety is paramount and really not worth mentioning, but if it makes you feel better I’ll mention the highlights. The X6 has all the passive electronic safety you can imagine plus it also has front and side airbags, as well as head airbags all-round, and crash-activated headrests at the front.

 

Additionally standard equipment includes bi-xenon dual headlights including a daytime light function, fog lamps, two-stage brake lights, and run-flat safety tyres.

There are three variants of the X6,

• X6 xDrive35d

• X6 xDrive35i

• X6 xDrive50i

If you want economy you can’t go past the diesel but I suspect those most interested in the X6 will be keen on either the twin-turbo six-cylinder or the mighty V8.

My only criticism of the X6 is the looks, the concept is brilliant and will likely catch on, however it can go a long way in the looks department. Perhaps an M kit with a little more aggression and attitude might make me change my mind.

Overall, the X6 is the kind of car which doesn’t make sense at first but once you work out the whys and the whos, it all comes together in one neat and exciting package. If you’re after something different, say …  a sport activity coupé, then you have no choice but to buy the X6!

CarAdvice Overall Rating:

How does it Drive:

How does it Look:

How does it Go:

Specifications:

• Engine: 2979cc Twin-Turbo Inline Six Cylinder (24 valve)
  
• Power: 225kW @ 5800rpm
  
• Torque: 400Nm @ 1300rpm
  
• Transmission: Six-speed automatic transmission with Steptronic and shift paddles
• Differential/Driven Wheels: All-wheel drive
  
• Brakes: 348mm front, 345mm rear, ventilated disc, ABS, EBD
• Top Speed: 240km/h
• 0-100km/h: 6.7 seconds
• 0-400m: Not tested
  
• CO2 Emissions: 286g/km
  
• Fuel Consumption: 12.1 litres/100km (Combined ADR)
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 85 litres
  
• Fuel Type: 95RON petrol
  
• ANCAP Rating: Not tested
  
• Airbags: Front and side airbags, head airbags all-round
• Safety: ESP with Dynamic Performance Control
• Spare Wheel: Space saved (run flat tyres)
  
• Tow Capacity: Not listed
• Turning Circle: 12.8 metres
• Warranty: Three year, unlimited kilometre
  
• Weight: 2070kg (kerb)
  
• Wheels: 19-inch light alloy, 255/50/R19 tyres

Road Test the Rivals:

• None!