Maxabout Review

The Power of "M"

BMW calls the X6 M a Sports Activity Coupe. It looks like the outcome of a collision between the German company’s 6-series coupe and the X5 off-roader. And that’s because it is, at least in design terms. BMW claims it’s an entirely new class of car. The BMW X6 M is based on that X5, its main difference, aside from the obvious low roof, swoopy bodywork, firm suspension and the addition of Dynamic Performance Control.

It's the latter that makes the X6 M so special. Basically the cleverest rear differential in the world, DPC apportions power to the rear wheels independently to improve agility, stability and traction at all times. This matters to you and me because it makes the X6 M handle incredibly well and incredibly safely in any condition without cutting power or hitting the brakes to interfere. Built to compete with Porsche’s Cayenne Turbo and other high-performance crossovers, the X6 M may very well be in a class of it’s own.

BMW India has launched the world’s first sports activity vehicle X6 in two variants :

• X6 xDrive50i (petrol)
• X6 xDrive30d (diesel)

These cars are available in the country as Completely Built-up Units (CBU) and can be ordered across all BMW dealerships in India. The new BMW X6 M has all the agility and elegance of a coupé plus the impressive versatility of an SAV. The BMW X6 draws its strength from two exclusive automotive worlds to create a new one.

The ex-showroom prices of the new BMW X6 are.

BMW X6 xDrive50i: 82,90,000.00
BMW X6 xDrive30d: 65,90,000.00

BMW X6 M is powered by a 4.4 litre TwinPower Turbo engine with maximum power of 555 Bhp at 5750 rpm with maximum torque of 679 Nmat 1500 rpm. The car can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds, according to the automaker. The X6 M is the first xDrive all-wheel-drive vehicle from BMW to sport the “M” badge. Coupled with special “M” air suspension featuring Adaptive Drive and the newly developed Servotronic power steering, the performance ‘ute promises very competent handling.

Other high-tech features include launch control for maximum acceleration and an “M” six-speed automatic optimized for performance. Drivers can manually select gears using either paddles or an an electronic gear selector lever. Although traction control is standard, the M Dynamic Mode (MDM) greatly reduces the aggressiveness of the system. The MDM setting allows the driver to enter a controlled drift and push the vehicle’s handling to the limit. There’s also a DSC-Off Mode for drivers seeking a more purist experience.

Combine DPC with Adaptive Drive, which eliminates roll and dive, and two incredibly powerful engines and you have a car that performs better than even the wildest imagination allows. The car is set to rival the Range Rover Sport and Porsche Cayenne. Tthe centre of gravity is lower than the X5’s, and it has a marginally wider rear track, both of which make it feel secure and planted.

The dashboard is pretty much lifted intact from the X5, but that’s a good thing. The layout, look and feel of the fascia and the snuggly, enveloping driving position are all typically brilliant BMW, and the cabin itself exudes an aura of high quality and solidity. The two rear passengers each get an individual chair complete with a centre console for drinks, and a separate armrest. Without doubt the best seat in the house is up front – the one opposite the steering wheel.

The cabin is fitted with a really slick 4-zone climate control system allowing all four passengers to control the temperature of their immediate surroundings. Rear dimensions are compromised, but two adults will be happy in back, provided they aren't 6' plus. Cargo capacity, while adequate, is considerably below average for the midsize crossover SUV segment.

The sole transmission is a six-speed automatic with manual shift control. Standard on all X6 M models is BMW's new Dynamic Performance Control, which works with the AWD system to distribute torque between the individual rear wheels. The sequential paddle shift is as good as you’d expect – quick and efficient. Throttle response is instant and linear lift is spectacular – instant and lag-free.

Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. Standard on all is BMW's iDrive control system, which uses a console knob to control entertainment, navigation, communication, and climate functions. Optional is BMW's Active Steering, which is designed to quicken low-speed steering response.