2009 BMW X6 Preview

The production version of the BMW X6 will be among the new vehicles at the Detroit auto show — but BMW has released power output figures and new photos as it prepares for the worldwide launch of the new crossover.

 

The third member of the BMW X family, the X6 Concept introduces a new segment defined by BMW as the "Sports Activity Coupe." Similar in size and mechanically related to the X5, the X6 is a crossover with a distinct styling mission.

The X6 — only slightly different in shape from the concept shown at last fall’s Frankfurt auto show — is clearly less oriented toward passenger room and cargo capacity and more focused on personal driving pleasure and aesthetics. The same organic lines that give its athletically feminine profile limit any aspiration to be a daily people hauler. With its sloping roofline, it’s most likely be driven by consumers who have a high priority on style and status and very little concern for passenger capacity.

Underneath the coupelike skin there are two powerplants for American-market X6s. The xDrive50i sports a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V-8, which makes 400 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque. The xDrive35i, meanwhile, also offers twin turbos and has an output rated at 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque.

BMW is also using the X6 Concept to debut their new chassis control system called Dynamic Performance Control. Working in harmony with xDrive all-wheel drive, Dynamic Performance Control provides control by varying distribution of power between the wheels for perfect stability, no matter the speed. BMW’s Active Steering system is available as an option.

 

All X6s will be built in Spartanburg, S.C. alongside the X3 and X5 crossovers. Sales in the U.S. begin in the second quarter of 2008. No pricing has been announced.

Stay tuned for more on the X6 as TheCarConnection.com covers the Detroit auto show, now in previews and from the show floor beginning January 13, 2008.

 

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