The world’s first Sports Activity Coupé offers features and abilities not available in a comparable combination in any other car the world over. In its design the new BMW X6 combines the sporting elegance of a large BMW Coupé with the powerful presence of a BMW X model. The unique driving characteristics of the BMW X6, in turn, come from the innovative combination of driving dynamics on the road so typical of BMW and absolute supremacy on all kinds of terrain. So this is a unique coupé and, at the same time, a very special BMW X model.

With its low-slung side windows and the roofline tapering out to the rear, the BMW X6 unmistakably boasts the proportions of a genuine coupé. Inside – again in typical coupé style – the BMW X6 accommodates the driver and front passenger as well as two further passengers at the rear. Extra ground clearance, strikingly designed wheel arches, four doors, the large rear hatch as well as the high waistline bear a clear resemblance in style to BMW’s other X models. This design is indeed an authentic expression of the dynamic driving potential offered by the BMW X6 through its drivetrain and suspension technology not only on the road, but also on rough terrain and off the beaten track.

The BMX X6 comes as standard with BMW’s intelligent xDrive for variable distribution of drive power between the front and rear axle. In addition, this is the first vehicle in the world to feature Dynamic Performance Control likewise fitted as standard for variable distribution of drive forces between the two rear wheels. So regardless of the actual power and traction coming from the engine, the power and torque delivered, say, to the outer wheel in a bend can be actively increased whenever required.

This system – unique the world over – significantly enhances steering precision, traction on bends and, accordingly, the agility of the vehicle even at moderate speeds. On fast bends and in abrupt steering manoeuvres or when suddenly taking back engine power, Dynamic Performance Control serves furthermore to enhance the stability of the vehicle, allowing the driver to safely enter a new dimension of driving dynamics. On slippery and mixed surfaces, finally, Dynamic Performance Control offers the advantage of even better and more reliable traction.

BMW’s new V8 power unit with Twin Turbo technology and direct petrol injection is also making its world debut in the BMW X6. Displacing 4.4 litres, this outstanding 8-cylinder develops a maximum output of 300 kW/407 bhp and peak torque of 600 Newton-metres/442 lb-ft across an unusually large speed range from 1,750–4,500 rpm, and is therefore the most powerful drive unit ever featured in a BMW X model.

This new 8-cylinder stands out not only due to its supreme power and torque, but also due to its compact dimensions. It is indeed the first 8-cylinder petrol engine in the world with its turbochargers in the V-area between the two rows of cylinders.

Front end with powerful presence and clear focus on the road.

In its design the BMW X6 shows the typical look of a vehicle with the DNA of a BMW X model re-interpreted in this case in unique, sporting style: the BMW X6 stands out as a genuine BMW from every angle, with the sculptural looks so characteristic of all BMW X models. The front, sides and rear end of the car flow smoothly and directly into one another, their shapes and surfaces merging to form one harmonious unit.

Right from the start, the flair and look of the front end give BMW’s new Sports Activity Coupé powerful presence. Due to the larger share of surfaces finished in body colour, however, the BMW X6 creates the impression of being lower and even more sporting, emphasising its dynamic orientation to the road. The DNA typical of a BMW X car is also to be admired on the engine compartment lid, in the dual round headlights cut off at the top, and in the structure of the BMW kidney grille in upright position.

Large air intakes positioned far to the outside not only clearly indicate the cooling requirements of the powerful engines, but also, together with the side panels stretching  to the inside far beyond the headlights, provide clear visual orientation to the wheels, again bearing testimony to the stable stance of the vehicle on the road. The air intakes at the side are split horizontally by bars in aluminium colour also surrounding the round fog lamps.

The unique proportions of the BMW X6 stand out particularly from the side. The short front body overhang emphasises the dynamic character of the vehicle, the roofline tapering out gently to the rear and the long body overhang at the rear end give the BMW X6 its stretched coupé silhouette. With the roof reaching its highest point directly over the front row of seats, the driver receives particular emphasis as a special effect reflecting the extravagant design of the BMW X6.

The high waistline and the powerfully flared wheel arches front and rear moving the visual centre of gravity to the middle and thus referring clearly to all-wheel drive are further significant elements of BMW X with its unique genes. Slender plastic protectors at the bottom of the bumpers, on the sills and the wheel arches also provide discreet reference to the robust character of the BMW X6.

Features and characteristics typical of elegance, sportiness and robustness likewise come together in fascinating style at the rear end to form a harmonious entity. A powerful bumper and the protector panel on the underfloor are classical elements of a BMW X model in its design. At the same time the new vehicle comes in the proportions typical of a coupé but in the special style and class of a BMW X model. The greenhouse with its unusually angled rear window tapers out smoothly to the rear, the rear hatch with its striking airflow spoiler adding a further feature typical of a coupé.

The entire rear view is split up by horizontal lines giving the rear end of the BMW X6 an even wider look and emphasising the powerful stance of the car on the road. Even the rear lights, in their design, highlight the unique character of the BMW X6, re-interpreting the L-shape so typical of a BMW X model and adding a dynamic, flowing look.

Sporting and exclusive interior.

The interior of the BMX X6 offers a unique combination of exclusive luxury, sporting dynamics and powerful design to the very last detail. Sophisticated, high-quality surfaces make the interior an outstanding experience in touch and looks. And like all BMW X models, the new Sports Activity Coupé offers an elevated, comanding seating position giving the driver an even better feeling of security and superiority in his BMW X6.

The new model also stands out from the existing models in the BMW X range due to the two single seats at the rear in sporting design, separated by the centre console and offering both superior side support and integrated headrests.

The BMW X6 is the only model within the competitive environment of the BMW X models to have a sports steering wheel with shift paddles as standard. They are for manual change of drive position in conjunction with the 6-speed automatic transmission, likewise a standard feature. Yet another sporting feature is provided by the new knee pads on the centre console offering both the driver and front passenger additional support and stability, for example in sudden manoeuvres in city traffic but also when driving off-road on rough terrain.

The rear doors opening up to a wide angle significantly facilitate access to the two rear seats. An unusually generous feature for a coupé is the substantial headroom at the rear, 944 millimetres or 37.2" giving even tall passengers maximum comfort at all times. Seen from the rear, the window graphics of the BMW X6 create a feeling of forward-striving openness and, as a result, a generous experience of space.

The passenger and luggage compartments in the BMW X6 are clearly separated from one another in typical coupé style. The useful luggage compartment behind the rear seats offers capacity of 570 litres, far more than the space usually available in a coupé. Among other things, this enables four passengers in a BMW X6 to take along four golf bags in the luggage compartment.

To increase luggage capacity even further, the rear seat backrest folds down asymmetrically, with luggage capacity increasing to a maximum of no less than 1,450 litres or 50.8 cubic feet. A two-stage gas spring featured as standard, to mention yet another feature, allows the driver and his passengers to determine the final position of the rear lid individually when open according to their requirements. This avoids the risk of damage, for example when opening the lid in an indoor car park with a low ceiling.

The exterior paintwork comes in a range of ten colours, while the interior offers five equipment variants, two interior colours and five trim variants for a wide range of choice. Trim strips in ash grain and flywheel aluminium are available exclusively on this new Sports Activity Coupé, while the seat upholstery comes with a choice of various high-quality cloth and leather variants as well as a new combination of alcantara and leather exclusive to the BMW X6.

When it comes to driving dynamics, the world’s first Sports Activity Coupé offers new dimensions clearly defined by a significant increase in agility, unique stability in fast bends, and safe traction on slippery surfaces.

Powerful engines, BMW’s intelligent xDrive technology, DSC Dynamic Stability Control, optional Active Steering and Adaptive Drive, as well as Dynamic Performance Control featured for the first time – as standard – on the BMX X6, together with the wider rear track, set the foundation for supreme driving dynamics.

The drive and suspension systems are perfectly applied and masterminded by Integrated Chassis Management (ICM) networking all of the individual units and functions. This high-performance electronic control is able to coordinate the drive and suspension functions perfectly within fractions of a second, ensuring maximum stability and supreme performance in every situation.

Even under suddenly changing conditions – for example on varying surfaces, in spontaneous steering manoeuvres or when accelerating or braking abruptly – ICM responds with utmost precision in controlling the xDrive, DSC and Dynamic Performance Control actuators and, as an option, the Active Steering in close association with DSC and xDrive.

Depending on driving conditions and in a fully variable process, drive power is now spread out individually not "only" between the front and rear axles by mean of BMW xDrive, but also between the left and right rear wheel through its dynamic performance control. Additional power and traction therefore goes to precisely the right point where it can be conveyed to the surface with optimum results.

This drive technology – quite unique in the market – promotes the agility, traction in bends, steering precision and tracking stability of the vehicle in bends as well as traction on slippery surfaces, offering a significantly higher standard of driving dynamics in the process. DSC with its stabilising effect provided by applying the brakes individually on each wheel is only required when the BMW X6 reaches the very limits to driving physics.

As a result, the world’s first Sports Activity Coupé offers the driver the fascinating experience of ultra-sporting performance even in the most demanding situations, with qualities only a BMW X6 is able to provide.

The foundation for this superiority is set by the unique chassis and suspension system unparalleled in the segment of BMW X models. Front suspension is provided by a double track control arm axle applying the double joint principle for dynamic lateral acceleration, superior directional stability, and minimised transmission of bumps on the road to the steering wheel.

At the rear the BMW X6 comes with BMW’s patented Integral IV rear axle combining superior comfort with outstanding dynamics. And now this lightweight construction has been optimised in numerous details specifically for BMW’s new Sports Activity Coupé, the entire rear axle system naturally being adjusted to offer the highest standard of sporting performance in a vehicle of this type.

The BMW X6 comes as standard on 19-inch light alloy wheels. Runflat safety tyres also featured as standard enable the driver to continue to a nearby workshop after a puncture, even with complete loss of air. And last but certainly not least in this context, the tyre defect indicator permanently monitors tyre pressure and gives the driver a warning as soon as tyre pressure drops more than 30 per cent below the ideal level.

Permanent all-wheel drive with electronically controlled, variable distribution of drive forces between the front and rear axle gives all BMW X models not only superior traction, but also enhanced driving dynamics. BMW xDrive is acknowledged as an intelligent all-wheel drive concept due to the important fact that this system delivers drive power to the appropriate axle in each case via a power divider with an electronically controlled multiple-plate clutch, the wheels with optimum grip on the surface thus getting exactly the power and traction required as a function of driving conditions and in a precise dosage.

Under normal driving conditions BMW xDrive spreads out drive forces in a 40 : 60 ratio front-to-rear. Sensors constantly measure slip on the front and rear wheels, with the system therefore able to vary the distribution of power and torque whenever necessary within fractions of a second. Unlike conventional all-wheel drive, BMW xDrive even looks ahead in this process and does not just respond after a wheel has started to spin.

In this way xDrive further enhances the driving dynamics of the BMW X6 by recognising even the slightest tendency to oversteer or understeer in good time, taking appropriate action as soon as necessary. And now, with BMW’s new Dynamic Performance Control, the BMW X6 responds even faster and more appropriately to individual requirements.

The positive influence of Dynamic Performance Control on the agility of the BMW X6 comes out clearly right from the start even in conventional situations in everyday traffic: even at moderate speeds the process of steering into a bend allows significantly greater precision and smooth, extra-light steering behaviour.

Unlike a conventional limited-slip differential, Dynamic Performance Control serves, as one example, to accelerate the outer wheel in a bend, the additional momentum generated in this way being converted into a yaw or, respectively, steering movement of the car. In addition, Dynamic Performance Control ensures absolute supremacy in sudden steering manoeuvres and in particularly fast bends.

Depending on road surface conditions, the angle of a bend and road speed when driving to the limit, a vehicle may "push" to the outside either over the rear or the front wheels. Now Dynamic Performance Control is able to counteract both of these tendencies for instability in conjunction with xDrive. As soon as the vehicle starts to understeer, xDrive reduces the transmission of power to the rear wheels pushing to the outside, and now Dynamic Performance Control cuts in additionally to withdraw drive power from the outer rear wheel subject to particularly great centrifugal forces, diverting this extra power to the inner wheel at the rear to build up appropriate, counteracting yaw momentum.

This stabilising effect is built up so quickly and precisely that the driver will not even notice what is happening. But he will certainly notice that now his BMW X6 offers outstanding precision and stability also under dynamic driving conditions.

Any tendency to understeer is eliminated in exactly the opposite process: xDrive reduces the transmission of power to the front wheels pushing to the outside, while at the same time Dynamic Performance Control shifts drive forces to the outer rear wheel in a bend in the interest of optimum stability and yaw momentum "turning" the vehicle into the bend. Again, the car follows the driver’s commands with even greater agility and tracking stability as a result of this unique control.

Unique: Dynamic Performance Control for extra steering precision even when the driver takes his foot off the gas pedal.

A further special feature of Dynamic Performance Control is that momentum and torque are distributed variably between the rear wheels not only when the engine is "pulling" the car, but also in overrun, thus acting independently of actual drive forces. This is ensured by an additional, superimposed transmission within the final drive made up of a double planetary gearing and a multiple-plate brake controlled by an electric motor on each side, providing a variable power split also when the driver takes his foot off the accelerator. The BMW X6 is the first car in the world to offer such a stabilising effect independent of engine load and the flow of power.

and in situations where the car is running on different surfaces on either side, for example a snowbound surface at the side of the road and asphalt in the middle. In such a case any difference in the frictional coefficient between the wheels on the right and left (modal split) is set off by Dynamic Performance Control distributing drive forces to the rear wheels precisely as required.

By looking at the instrument cluster, the driver is able to literally "watch" the interaction of Dynamic Performance Control and xDrive. A graphic display activated as an alternative to other display modes in the on-board computer simply by pressing the lever on the steering column informs the driver of the current distribution of drive forces at any given point in time.

The difference in torque between the two rear wheels built up by Dynamic Performance Control may reach a maximum of 1,800 Newton-metres. To the driver, this means a significant improvement of agility, traction and driving stability. He also feels the effect of Dynamic Performance Control through the fact that DSC Dynamic Stability Control is now required far less frequently.

Over and above its stabilising effect, DSC in the BMW X6 encompasses further functions in the interest of safe and dynamic motoring. These include the anti-lock brake system (ABS), ASC Automatic Stability Control, Trailer Stability Control, HDC Hill Descent Control, DBC Dynamic Brake Control maximising brake pressure whenever required in a particular case, CBC Cornering Brake Control, and Automatic Cruise Control complete with a brake function.

The ADB Automatic Differential Brake provides a transverse locking function and Brake Fading Compensation prevents any loss of brake power under extremely high brake temperatures. Regular Dry Braking optimises brake performance in the wet and the Start-Off Assistant makes it much easier to set off smoothly on an uphill gradient. The new BMW X6 boasts a parking brake operating both electromechanically and hydraulically.

It also comes with an Auto-Hold function increasing comfort and convenience for the driver above all in stop-and-go traffic. Reflecting the very dynamic potential of the BMW X6, DSC Dynamic Stability Control also features a special mode called DTC Dynamic Traction Control. DTC raises the response thresholds of DSC to an appropriately higher level, allowing a particularly sporting and active style of motoring and enabling the driver to set off on snow or loose sand with the drive wheels slightly spinning.

Supported by a wide range of DSC functions, the high-performance brake system in the BMW X6 ensures excellent stopping power under all conditions. Inner-vented discs on all four wheels take up brake energy with optimum efficiency. And on the top-of-the-range BMW X6 xDrive50i, newly developed lightweight brakes with discs measuring 385 millimetres (15.2") in aluminium floating calliper construction both front and rear guarantee extreme fading resistance and maximum brake comfort.

The rack-and-pinion steering on the BMX X6 varies the steering transmission ratio as a function of the steering angle to meet different requirements and comply with varying driving situations at all times. As an option the BMW X6 is also available with Active Steering.

Developed by BMW, this unique system provides the optimum steering transmission at all speeds and for every steering angle. Up to a speed of about 90 km/h Active Steering remains direct and highly responsive. When parking, for example, all the driver has to do is turn the steering wheel round twice from left to right lock. Then, at higher speeds, the transmission ratio becomes increasingly indirect in the interests of superior directional stability and enhanced driving comfort.

Active Steering in the BMW X6 is combined with Servotronic to improve steering comfort by reducing steering forces as a function of road speed.

A further point is that Active Steering makes an active contribution to stabilising the car when oversteering in bends and in particularly dynamic braking manoeuvres. When applying the brakes on different surfaces right and left, for example (modal split), Active Steering countersteers smoothly, discreetly and exactly as required in order to prevent the car from swerving out of control.

Perfectly matched control of the anti-roll bars and dampers via Adaptive Drive is an equally unique feature in the segment of BMW X models. Indeed, this combination of active anti-roll stability and variable damper adjustment gives the new BMW X6 incomparably superior driving behaviour.

By means of sensors, Adaptive Drive permanently monitors and calculates all the data required on road speed, the steering angle, straight-ahead and lateral acceleration, acceleration of the vehicle’s body and wheels, as well as ride height. Applying this information, Adaptive Drive then masterminds both the swivel motors on the anti-roll bars and the electromagnetic valves on the dampers.

In the interest of quick and reliable coordination, Adaptive Drive also comes with FlexRay high-speed data transmission. BMW is indeed the first vehicle manufacturer in the world to introduce FlexRay technology in a serial production car.

Thanks to its superior suspension technology, the BMW X6 is able to convert maximum drive power safely and smoothly into driving dynamics at all times and on all kinds of surfaces. The engines powering the world’s first Sports Activity Coupé set the standard themselves in terms of superior power, smooth refinement, and enhanced efficiency in their respective segments.

8-cylinder. The most powerful in-line 6-cylinder in BMW’s engine portfolio, in turn, gives the BMW X6 xDrive 35i superior performance at all times, and the BMW X6 xDrive35d is entering the market with the most dynamic 6-cylinder diesel in the world. Even the BMW X6 xDrive30d – again featuring an all-aluminium diesel with third-generation common rail fuel injection – offers the performance of a sports car combined with a high standard of efficiency quite unique in the BMW X model segment.

Displacing 4.4 litres, the new V8 with Twin Turbo technology and High Precision Injection develops a maximum output of 300 kW/407 bhp in the speed range between 5,500 and 6,400 rpm. Torque peaks at a very substantial 600 Newton-metres/442 lb-ft available throughout the unusually broad speed range from 1,750–4,500 rpm. This is the first time that the use of two turbochargers offers particular efficiency in boosting both output and torque also on an 8-cylinder petrol engine.

Each of the two turbochargers supplies compressed air to four cylinders, ensuring unparalleled spontaneity and a perfect response to the gas pedal. A further important point is that the engine revs up smoothly and full of power, developing its high torque from low speeds and then maintaining this superior torque plateau over an unusually broad speed range.

The arrangement of the turbochargers and the catalytic converters in the V-space between the two rows of cylinders is a particularly new innovation in technology allowing unusually compact dimensions and at the same time requiring modification of the intake and exhaust ducts in their position. This reduces the length of the ducts and provides a larger cross-section, with pressure losses significantly minimised both on the intake and exhaust side.

The all-aluminium V8 power unit developed for the BMW X6 offers incomparable dynamics and performance in providing the qualities typical of an 8-cylinder: acceleration to 100 km/h in the BMW X6 xDrive50i comes in just 5.4 seconds and power reserves are quite sufficient also at higher speeds for thrilling acceleration at all times. This superior performance then continues all the way to 250 km/h or 155 mph, where electronic control cuts in to limit the vehicle’s top speed.

High Precision Injection offers a key function in the efficient use of fuel for maximum economy. This second generation of direct petrol injection uses piezo injectors positioned directly next to the spark plugs in the cylinder head and delivering fuel in precise doses to the combustion chambers at a pressure of 200 bar. This particular concept and configuration benefits both emissions and engine acoustics, naturally fulfilling both the ULEV II emission standard in the USA as well as the EU5 norm in Europe.

The new V8 is the most efficient power unit in its class. Combined with a wide range of further features developed in the context of BMW EfficientDynamics,

it gives the BMW X6 xDrive50i a standard of fuel economy and emission management far better than other 8-cylinder models in the BMW X segment. Average fuel consumption of the BMW X6 in the EU test cycle is therefore 12.5 litres/100 kilometres (equal to 22.6 mpg imp), with a CO2 rating of 299 grams per kilometre.

The second petrol variant of the BMW X6 is powered by the most muscular in-line 6-cylinder in the BMW engine range, the BMW X6 xDrive35i benefiting from a maximum output of 225 kW/306 bhp from an engine capacity of 3.0 litres.

This supreme power and performance comes at an engine speed between 5,800 and 6,250 rpm, with maximum torque of 400 Newton-metres/295 lb-ft maintained all the way from 1,300 to 5,000 rpm. Like the new V8, the power unit featured in the BMW X6 xDrive35i offers the combination of Twin Turbo technology and High Precision Injection exclusive to BMW for unparalleled power and performance and for truly impressive all-round economy, particularly in relation to the vehicle’s dynamic driving potential.

The flow of power and muscle generated by the in-line 6-cylinder with Twin Turbo and High Precision Injection achieves a level formerly only offered by much larger 8-cylinder naturally aspirated power units. But in comparison with such larger engines, BMW’s most powerful 6-cylinder offers far greater fuel economy and is also much lighter with its all-aluminium crankcase promoting the superior agility of the vehicle at all times.

The BMW X6 xDrive35i accelerates to 100 km/h in 6.7 seconds and has a top speed of 240 km/h or 149 mph. Average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle is 10.9 litres/100 kilometres, equal to 25.9 mpg imp, and the CO2 rating is 262 grams per kilometre.

Two turbochargers, direct fuel injection, maximum performance – the most powerful diesel available in the BMW X6 boasts interesting features comparable to the petrol models: the 3.0-litre in-line 6-cylinder diesel with Variable Twin Turbo (VTT) is likewise an engine of the highest standard.

Maximum output is 210 kW/286 bhp at 4,400 rpm, making this the most dynamic power unit of its kind the world over. At the same time the m BMW X6 xDrive35d features its own, very specific and unmistakable driving characteristics combined with unique technical details.

With its all-aluminium crankcase, VTT turbocharging and third-generation common-rail fuel injection complete with piezo-injectors, this power unit offers all the features required for supreme torque and muscle combined with outstanding efficiency. Weighing just 194 kg (428 lb) according to the DIN standard, this high-performance diesel weighs some 50 kg less than a comparable 8-cylinder.

Clearly, this serves to maximise the dynamic driving qualities of the BMW X6 xDrive35d, with acceleration to 100 km/h in 6.9 seconds. Top speed, in turn, is 236 km/h or 146 mph. Compared with this kind of performance, average consumption in the EU test cycle of just 8.3 litres/100 kilometres (equal to 34.0 mpg imp) is even more convincing.

VTT technology first activates the small turbocharger at low engine speeds, developing superior power and torque spontaneously and without the slightest delay right from the start even with the slightest movement of the gas pedal thanks to its low inertia. Then, with engine speed increasing, the second, larger turbocharger takes up its additional effect, giving the engine peak torque of 580 Newton-metres/427 lb-ft at just 1,750 rpm.

The second, particularly economical diesel model in the range is the BMW X6 xDrive30d likewise powered by a 3.0-litre in-line 6-cylinder with an all-aluminium crankcase and third-generation common-rail direct fuel injection. The turbocharger on this power unit comes with variable intake geometry for muscular and, at the same time, harmonious development of power adapted to driving conditions at all times. Maximum output is 173 kW/235 bhp at 4,000 rpm, peak torque of 520 Newton-metres/383 lb-ft comes at just 2,000 rpm.

Featuring piezo injectors, the injection system ensures superior power and performance combined with high efficiency, optimised emission management and outstanding motoring refinement also on this variant of the 3.0-litre diesel. The BMW X6 xDrive30d accelerates to 100 km/h in 8.0 seconds and has a top speed of 210 km/h or 130 mph (220 km/h (136 mph) with the optional high-speed performance pack).

And with average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle of just 8.2 litres/100 kilometres, equal to 34.4 mpg imp) offering a maximum range of 1,035 kilometres or 642 miles, the BMW X6 xDrive30d again sets the standard in the BMW X model segment.

To optimise their emission response, both diesel engines come with a particulates filter of the latest generation and an oxidation catalyst, both units housed together directly on the engine. CO2 emissions on the BMW X6 xDrive35d are 220 grams per kilometre, with 217 grams per kilometre on the BMW X6 xDrive30d.

All variants of the new BMW X6 come as standard with a wide range of features in and around the engine serving to maximise the vehicle’s efficiency. Brake Energy Regeneration on all model variants, for example, ensures an intelligent flow of energy, concentrating the generation of electric power for the on-board network on overrun phases and application of the brakes.

On-demand management of ancillary units likewise serves to further optimise the efficiency of the BMW X6, with the power required to drive the fuel and steering assistance pumps significantly reduced by matching the uptake to current driving conditions, saving substantial energy in the process. The belt drive on the a/c compressor, comes with a separate clutch automatically disconnecting the compressor as soon as the driver switches off the air conditioning.

Apart from tyres with reduced roll resistance, optimisation of the vehicle’s aerodynamics also serves to enhance efficiency, with the cooling air flaps behind the BMW kidney grille and in the air intake opened and closed electronically as required in the models BMW X6 xDrive35i, BMW X6 xDrive35d and BMW X6 xDrive 30d. With the flaps reducing air resistance when closed, they are opened only in response to a greater demand for cooling air.

Power is transmitted on the BMW X6 in standard trim through an upgraded six-speed automatic transmission with a particularly sporting gearshift. As a result, the transmission shifts gears with incomparable spontaneity, precision and efficiency benefiting not only motoring comfort, but also – and in particular – driving dynamics in the BMW X6.

And connected directly to the engine, the six-speed automatic transmission, with its converter lock-up clutch operating largely without slip and the exact choice of gears, also contributes to the particularly high standard of motoring economy.

The driver controls the automatic transmission either through the electronic gear selector lever or via paddles on the steering wheel, the transmission being adjusted not mechanically, but through electric signals. To shift to the parking position, for example, all the driver has to do is press the P Button on the top of the gearshift lever. To activate the manual gearshift, in turn, all he does is move the gearshift lever to the left.

Then the driver is able to shift gears sequentially by hand – either through the gear selector lever or by means of the shift paddles featured as standard on the steering wheel. The great advantage of these paddles is that the driver is able to shift gears manually with maximum spontaneity whenever required: as soon as he presses one of the paddles, the transmission will immediately switch over from the automatic mode into manual gearshift.

Like BMW’s other X models, the BMW X6 comes with a particularly strong and torsionally resistant body. To ensure an extremely high standard of all-round strength and solidity combined with minimum weight, the focus in developing the BMW X6 was placed consistently from the start on intelligent lightweight engineering. Both the choice of materials as well as the arrangement and geometry of the load-bearing components, bars and supports in the body follow an intelligent all-round concept for maximum crash safety and optimum agility.

To optimise passive safety, the development engineers concentrated from the start on giving the passenger cell maximum stability. Hence, forces acting on the body in the event of an accident are diverted via the engine supports ("chassis legs") and the chassis along several load paths in order to avoid extreme loads acting on the individual load-bearing structures. Inside, the new BMW X6 comes as standard not only with frontal and hip/thorax airbags, but also curtain head airbags at the side in the interest of superior safety.

Inflating out of the panels on the A-pillars and the roof lining, these curtain head airbags protect the occupants both front and rear from injury. Another important highlight is the use of three-point inertia-reel seat belts on all seats in the new BMW X6. These restraint systems feature belt force limiters and a belt tensioner function on the front seats. To prevent cervical spine injury in the event of an impact from the rear, the front seats on the BMW X6 also come as standard with crash-activated headrests.

ISOFIX child seat fastenings, in turn, are featured as standard on the rear seats, and all restraint systems are masterminded by one central electronic safety unit monitoring the type and severity of a collision to activate the most efficient protection units in each case. Last but not least, the frontal airbags come with a two-stage gas generator and are likewise activated with varying intensity, depending on the severity of an accident.

In the event of an imminent rollover, the rollover sensors immediately activate the curtain airbags and the belt latch tensioners. Networked to DSC Dynamic Stability Control, these sensors ensure that the system is activated very quickly and according to individual requirements.

Featured as standard in the BMW X6, bi-xenon dual headlights not only ensure optimum illumination of the road in the dark, but also provide a daytime light function through their corona rings. The BMW X6 also comes as standard with a light and rain sensor to automatically control the lights and the windscreen wipers whenever required. Additional comfort when driving at night is provided by the optional High Beam Assistant.

Another optionally available feature is the Adaptive Headlight which ensures that the road is illuminated according to the road situation. One element of this option is variable light distribution, which expands the light cone so as to extend the area of vision depending on road speed.

Depending on the situation, either a broader spread of light, a brightening of the area closest to the vehicle or else a longer range is achieved. The fog lamps also serve as turning lights, swivelling their light beam to the side by means of a reflector when turning in order to illuminate the road in the right direction.

Optional cruise control complete with its brake function masterminds engine management, the choice of gears and the brakes in order to keep the speed chosen by the driver at exactly the level set. This efficient system permanently registers the vehicle’s lateral acceleration and reduces its road speed whenever necessary to prevent any loss of comfort in bends. The process of driving downhill in a controlled mode – also when towing a trailer – is likewise supported by automatic activation of the brakes.

To control the Navigation, Air Conditioning, Entertainment and Communication functions, the BMW X6 comes as standard with the progressive BMW iDrive control concept. And to make operation of these systems even easier and more straightforward, there are no less than eight individual choice favourite buttons. As an option, finally, information relevant to the driver may be projected via the Head-Up Display on to a particularly favourable ergonomic position on the windscreen.

Sophisticated, top-end navigation and audio systems are available to further enhance grand touring comfort in the BMW X6. A DVD video system for the rear-seat passengers, a CD and/or DVD changer in the glove compartment, as well as an innovative multi-channel audio system are among the highlights available in terms of mobile entertainment.

Further features are the mobile BMW Online internet portal, the BMW Assist telematics service, and BMW TeleServices.

Park Distance Control. This very helpful and convenient system facilitates the process of parking and manoeuvring in confined spaces and in places with poor visibility. As an alternative to the automatic air conditioning featured as standard, two- or four-zone automatic air conditioning for individual temperature control is available as an option. And last but certainly not least, an optional glass sliding/vent roof provides an exceptional feeling of space.

Presenting the BMX X6, BMW is once again proving the company’s outstanding expertise in the development of innovative vehicle concepts. The world’s first Sports Activity Coupé interprets the sportiness so typical of the brand in completely new style and with unprecedented qualities.

At the same time the new model adds an innovative and truly fascinating variant to the existing family of BMW X cars, BMW thus standing out once again as the trendsetter in a particularly dynamic and fast-growing market segment.

Finally, with its concept and its drive technology the BMW X6 confirms the outstanding innovative power of the world’s most successful manufacturer of premium vehicles.

-BMW - also photos