The X6 will continue what it started. The original X6 was the first SUV to adopt a dramatically sloped roof. This dramatically reduced cargo space while keeping it cool. It’s like an X5 SUV that goes to the gym. Its athletic abilities transcend its appearance, too. The base engine, a 375 horsepower turbocharged six-cylinder engine, gives the X6 lots of power. The M60i is hotter thanks to a twin-turbo V-8 of 523 horsepower that’s designed for heavy pavement pounding at high speeds.
Both powertrains can be locked to an 8-speed automatic transmission with all-wheel drive. A review of the 617-hp X6M is separate. It offers a more dynamic experience, but it’s not included here. The X6’s entertainment focus can distract from the real work of the X6. The interior is elegant and comfortable, with a large infotainment screen that acts as a command center. Other SUVs like the Porsche Cayenne Coupe or Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class Coupe have lowered their rooflines thanks to the X6. This only proves that the X6 was the one who started the trend towards sleeker SUVs.
What’s New for 2024?
BMW has given the X6 a facelift for 2024. The new front grille, bumper, headlamps, taillamps, wheel designs, and a 48-volt hybrid system give the base engine more power. The turbocharged 3.0-liter Inline-Six engine of the X6 produces 375 horsepower. However, the power of the 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V-8 (523-hp) remains unchanged for this year.
The M60i performance-oriented model, renamed last year’s M50i has an angrier engine. It also gets gloss-black exterior accents and quad tailpipes. The Highway Assistant hands-free driving feature, which we first saw in the flagship 7-series luxury sedan, is now available on the X6.
Performance, Transmission, and Engine
The X6 40i’s turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 engine produces 375 horsepower. It is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. Although the M60i shares the same transmission and all-wheel drive, its twin-turbo, 4.4-liter V-8 engine is significantly more powerful. The M60i’s 523 horsepower, 553 pound-feet torque, and 3.8-second acceleration to 60 mph were possible at our test track.
Even more surprising is the X6M, which has 617 horsepower and is faster. The standard six-cylinder engine is still very smooth and zippy. The X6 40i and M60i have standard adaptive dampers. They also come with a range of wheel sizes, ranging from 20 to 22 inches. The V-8-powered X6’s impressive stopping power and cornering grip were evident in our test. Its suspension is more rigid than that of the six-cylinder X6 but it was not harsh. Its adjustable steering weight and quiet interior were also appreciated at cruising speeds.
Towing and Payload Capacity
In a market where pulling ability is often a low priority, the X6 offers impressive towing capabilities. The maximum towing capacity of the X6 when it is equipped with the available towing option is 7200 lbs.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
Since the X6’s powertrain was updated, the EPA has not published fuel economy estimates. This space will be updated as soon as we have more information. We also plan to update it when the refreshed X6 is driven on our 75-mph highway fuel economy route. Visit the EPA website for more information on the X6’s fuel economy.
Interior, Comfort, & Cargo
The X6’s interior is, unsurprisingly, similar to other new BMW products. Two large digital 12.3-inch displays dominate the dashboard, which is a result of the use of upscale materials and soft-touch surfaces. The instrument panel is sleek, but the gauges can be confusing. The optional head-up display makes things easier. The rest of the switchgear is also well-designed. The gesture controls, which allow you to control certain functions like the audio volume by simply waving your hand in front of a screen on BMW’s infotainment system, are included but not necessary.
There are many standard amenities, such as 16-way power-adjustable rear seats, customizable ambient lighting, and heated front cushions. Passive entry is also available. The back seat can be used by two adults. However, the legroom and headroom are smaller than the X5’s. The cargo space behind the rear seats of the X6 is also smaller than that of the X5. It only carried nine suitcases back in our test; the X5 had 11.
Connectivity and Infotainment
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included in the 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment systems. You can use voice commands, traditional buttons, rotary controllers on the center console, and hand gestures to operate it. Although the iDrive interface is easy to use and has clear graphics, some menus can be confusing. BMW offers upgrades like built-in navigation and enhanced USB ports. You can upgrade the X6 with a Harman/Kardon stereo (standard for M60i) and a Bowers & Wilkins premium unit.
Safety
There are many options for driver-assistance technology on the big Bimmer. Visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety websites for more information on the X6’s crash test results. The following safety features are key:
- Automated emergency braking and standard forward-collision warning
- Rear cross-traffic alert and standard blind-spot monitoring
- Available adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go technology
2024 BMW X6 Price & Release Date
The pricing of the 2024 BMW X6 has increased for the new year with the mid-cycle facelift. The midsize SUV starts from $74,895 and can go up to $94,595 (with delivery). The production of the 2024 X6 will begin in April.
The coupe-inspired X6 is up against the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Coupe and Porsche Cayenne Coupe, Audi Q8, Land Rover Range Rover Velar, and Mercedes-Benz GLE-Coupe.