BMW X6 Review

2008 BMW X6 xDrive35i SUV Shown

BMW isn't the first manufacturer to call a non-coupe a coupe. That honor (which some might consider dubious) belongs to Mercedes-Benz, which applies the term to the slinky CLS luxury sedan. Not to be outdone, Volkswagen recently unveiled a nomenclatural oxymoron of its own with the four-door Passat coupe. But were there an award for Least-Coupelike Coupe, the prize would undoubtedly go to the BMW X6, a luxury performance SUV the manufacturer has dubbed a "Sports Activity Coupe."

Perhaps "fastback SUV" would be a more appropriate description. The midsizer, which is based on the BMW X5, has a dramatically downward-sloping roof line, evoking the timeless profiles of classic fastback coupes (or, less charitably, the Pontiac Aztek). As such, style trumps utility. Rear passenger space and cargo volume are reduced, and the X6 only has two rear seats instead of a three-passenger bench.

For the style-conscious, these shortcomings will likely be of little consequence. BMW has given the X6 a potent range of engines and handling abilities that far exceed one's expectations for a crossover SUV. Overall, the BMW X6 is a capable niche vehicle that should appeal to those who want solid BMW SUV fundamentals in a spruced-up package. We just hope they won't mind an extra pair of doors on their "coupe."

Current BMW X6

Introduced for 2008, the current BMW X6 comes in two trim levels: xDrive 35i and xDrive50i. The xDrive35i features a turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine and comes standard with such luxuries as leather upholstery, power front seats and premium audio. The xDrive50i ups the ante with a turbocharged V8 and even more in the way of interior accoutrements. As with most BMWs, the options list is both extensive and pricey.

The X6 certainly impresses in the powertrain department. The xDrive35i's 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 pumps out a frisky 300 horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque, while the xDrive50i's 4.4-liter turbocharged V8 bristles with 400 hp and 450 lb-ft of torque. The sole transmission is a six-speed automatic with manual shift control. All X6 models are equipped with all-wheel drive and a trick torque distribution system called Dynamic Performance Control. This system apportions varying amounts of power to each wheel in order to maintain optimal traction and directional stability.

The X6's styling isn't for everyone, but it manages to set itself apart with the fastback roof line, huge wheels and other sporty styling cues. Inside, the BMW X6 boasts comfortable seats, an excellent driving position and high-quality materials, though the control layout can be befuddling. Rear dimensions are compromised, but two adults will be happy in back -- provided they aren't unusually long of torso. Cargo capacity, while adequate, is considerably below average for the midsize crossover SUV segment.

In performance testing, our editors appreciated the X6's sprightly performance, especially in xDrive50i trim. BMW says this V8-powered model should accelerate from zero to 60 in 5.3 seconds, and while that may be slightly optimistic, there's no doubt that this is among the fleetest SUVs on the market. The V8's throaty exhaust burble belies its sophisticated turbocharged character, and in either trim, the X6 handles extraordinarily well for such a tall and heavy vehicle.

The BMW X6 makes sense for well-heeled buyers who want an SUV but care more about looks and performance than utility. However, such buyers will need to be undeterred by the fact that the X5 offers most of the X6's performance as well as far greater utility for thousands of dollars less.

SELECT A SPECIFIC BMW X6 MODEL YEAR*

* Edmunds.com maintains vehicle data as far back as 1990.