Overview
The BMW X6 is the grandfather of coupe-like SUVs, just like Don Corleone. The controversial breed was essentially invented by the original when it made its debut in the late 2000s, and imitations from brands like Audi and Mercedes-Benz followed. When it comes to these divisive crossover coupes, beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but the sloped-back Bimmer has two exquisite engines: a 335-hp inline-six-cylinder (40i) and a 523-hp twin-turbo V-8 (M50i). The latter will appeal to thrill seekers, but it is expensive. The automatic gearbox that both mills are connected to is as seamless as they are. The six-figure X6 M (reviewed separately) has the best performance, but even the more moderate variants are fun to drive. The normal X5 is more upright and useful, but the 2022 BMW X6 is more extroverted and has an equally opulent interior.
What Has Changed For 2022?
BMW changes a few things in its X6 lineup for 2022. The absence of a rear-drive, six-cylinder variant is the most significant change. The X6 40i now includes the brand's xDrive all-wheel-drive system as standard equipment. This results in a base price increase of $2300, which is exactly what it cost to add the previously optional feature last year. Other minor adjustments include the addition of improved Bluetooth and the removal of wireless device charging from the list of standard features, as well as new metallic paint colors, rearranged option packages, and a revised selection of individual choices (Sparkling Brown and Dravit Grey).
BMW X6: Interior And Comfort
The X6's interior, unsurprisingly, feels and looks like the majority of other recent BMW models. This means the dashboard is dominated by two enormous 12.3-inch digital screens and is covered in high-end materials and soft-touch surfaces.
The gauges are a confused muddle, despite how sleek the instrument panel appears to be. Thankfully, the head-up display is simpler and optional. The layout of the remaining switchgear is also shrewd.
Although not necessary, BMW's gesture controls let you change the level of your music by waving your hand in front of the infotainment screen. There are also many standard features available, such as heated front seats, ambient lighting that can be customized, 16-way power-adjustable front seats, and passive entry.
Although the back seat is adequate for two adults, it has less legroom and headroom than the boxier X5 by around 2 and 3 inches, respectively. The X6 also features a smaller cargo space behind the back seats. In our test, it could only fit nine carry-on bags back there, whereas the X5 could fit 11.
BMW X6: Connectivity
There is also a tonne of standard features available, such as heated front cushions, passive entry, and front seats with 16-way power adjustment. Although it can accommodate two adults comfortably, the back seat's legroom and headroom are less than the boxier X5 by around 2 and 3 inches, respectively.
The X6 also offers less space for cargo behind the back seats. It could only accommodate nine carry-on bags during our test; the X5 could accommodate 11.
BMW X6: Engine And Performance
The 3.0-liter inline-six engine in the X6 40i generates 335 horsepower and has a 48-volt hybrid system. It is mated to an eight-speed automated transmission and all-wheel drive. The M50i features the same all-wheel drive and transmission, but it also sports a substantially more potent twin-turbo 4.4 liter V-8. At our test track, its 523 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque allowed it to reach 60 mph in 3.8 seconds.
Even more astonishing is the fact that the X6 M is faster and boasts up to 617 horsepower. The regular six-cylinder engine is still very rapid and smooth.
Additionally, standard adaptive dampers and wheels that range in size from 20 to 22 inches are features shared by the X6 40i and M50i. The X6's outstanding cornering grip and stopping power were shown throughout our test.
Although it has a stronger suspension than the one in the six-cylinder X6 we tested, it never seemed harsh. We particularly valued its adjustable steering weight and quiet cabin at highway speeds.
BMW X6: Pricing
The entry-level X6 costs more than most luxury midsize SUVs with a starting MSRP of $67,350. The price of the rest of the series rises, with the fast BMW X6 M almost hitting $110,000.
Which One To Purchase?
We don't need to spend approximately $20,000 more on the 523-hp X6 M50i despite the louder sounds and more robust acceleration it offers. Instead, we would continue to use the six-cylinder X6 40i, which includes all-wheel drive as standard.
We would go for the M Sport option, which also comes with a special steering wheel, an improved exhaust system, a snazzier body kit, and external trim. The ventilated front seats with additional power adjustments and massage features are a great addition to the Luxury Seating option.
The new Climate Comfort bundle will be welcomed by those who live in frigid climates like us. It has heated seats in both rows, four-zone climate control, a heated steering wheel, and heated armrests.