BMW’s newly updated X6 Sports Activity Coupé has received a mild facelift with improvements evident across its engine line-up. Up front the X6 has some slight changes to the kidney grille and headlights, whilst there are newly designed led rear lights. My test car had the optional Adaptive LED headlights, these offer outstanding visibility in dark environments.
The entry-level BMW X6 xDrive 30d is priced from €81,160 and is more than capable of meeting the majority of motorists’ requirements. Its 3.0-litre diesel engine, complete with BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology offers 245hp and an impressive 540Nm of torque, which enables the X6 to reach 100km/h from a standstill in 7.5 seconds, remarkable for a vehicle of this size. On the road the X6’s strong torque is evident with a surge in mid-range power noticeable when overtaking. Whilst it’s fast it can be somewhat unnerving through the corners with a fair degree of body-roll noticeable. Its engine is mated to an eight-speed sports automatic transmission, fitted as standard. This in conjunction with BMW’s xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive system, offer a relaxed and reassuring driving experience. The X6 is luxurious and comfortable inside, something you’d expect for a vehicle in this price region. Leather upholstery comes fitted as standard, whilst a three-seat rear bench is available as an option. The elevated driving position gives the driver enhanced visibility of the road ahead.
Also within the BMW X6 range is the xDrive 40d model, this offers 306hp and yet will average a combined fuel consumption of 7.5l/100km. At €157,790 I don’t envisage we’ll see many of the range-topping X6 M variants on Irish roads. Its V8 petrol engine produces a hefty 555hp. Whilst the X6 M’s performance figures are impressive, there’s a new variant that will attract much attention. The X6 M50d utilises a six-cylinder diesel engine that produces 381hp and 740Nm of torque and yet will return a combined fuel consumption figure of just 7.7l/100km. The X6 M50d is priced from €108,590. The xDrive 30d is still my pick of the pack, offering sufficient performance, style and comfort in a well-groomed package.
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