2010 BMW X6 - Review

The Basics:

The 2010 BMW X6 is a bit of an oddball, its coupelike profile belying its SUV-like dimensions. The overall shape is aerodynamic and flowing above the shoulder line, but below, its bulk throws it off-balance. Reviewers tend to love or loathe the 2010 X6's styling, whether it's the plain-vanilla version or the more aggressively styled X6 M. Interior design and styling are modern and attractive, though some may find the X6 M's addition of carbon fiber-look panels a bit much.

The 2010 BMW X6 comes in three versions: the XDrive 35i, propelled by a 306-horsepower 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six; the XDrive 50i with a 400-horsepower, 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V-8; and the new-for-2010 BMW X6 M, featuring a brawny 555-horsepower version of the 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V-8. The only transmission available is a slick and stout six-speed automatic.

The BMW X6's performance is impressive in the standard variants and downright shocking in the case of the X6 M, but even after time on the track at Road Atlanta and BMW's Performance Driving grounds in both M and non-M models, the concept of a sport-coupe/SUV feels a bit foreign. Compromises abound to enable the X6 to meet its performance targets; the cargo area is comparatively small, and though it's very fast, there's no mistaking the tall crossover's parentage-it's no track-bred coupe.

Inside, the X6 is a comfortable refuge from the daily grind-for front-seat passengers anyway. The rear seats are a bit short on headroom due to the slope of the roof, and while legroom is good, the rear seat arrangement means only four adults will fit comfortably. Materials and quality of the interior are up to BMW's typically high standards, with close tolerances between parts and a solid feel throughout. Noise isn't a major concern, though the large side mirrors do make their presence known at highway speed; tire thrum is present as well. Visibility is something of an issue due to the narrow rear glass.

Ever known for its high-tech innovations, BMW doesn't skimp on safety features for the X6. With a full complement of front, side, and curtain airbags, plus a range of stability and performance-tuned traction control, the X6 provides both the protection you need and the confidence you want behind the wheel.

The 2010 BMW X6 also has an ample list of standard features, including 10-way power-adjustable seating for driver and front passenger, HD Radio, wood-grain trim, automatic front climate control, push-button start/stop, power tailgate, front and rear parking sensors, a 10-speaker stereo with two subwoofers, dynamic cruise control, and more. Optional upgrades include four-zone automatic climate control, ventilated front seats, iPod and USB connectivity, a premium hi-fi stereo system, six-disc DVD changer, voice command, navigation, real-time traffic, a rearview camera, and a range of interior and exterior appearance packages.