BMW unveils third-generation X6

BMW has ripped the covers off its third-generation X6 large coupe-style SUV, set for a public debut at the Frankfurt motor show in September and a global launch from November.

Local versions will arrive around the same time with a three-variant range that should expand to additional versions, including a full-fat X6 M, in the future.

When the X6 launches globally, BMW will offer four different engine choices, with petrol and diesel inline six-cylinder versions and M-fettled offerings in both petrol and diesel guise.

Like its mechanically related X5 sibling, the range will open with the 30d and 40i, the former of which employs BMW’s trusty 3.0-litre inline six-pot turbo-diesel engine, outputting 195kW at 4000rpm and 620Nm from 2000-2500rpm.

The 30d sips between 6.9-7.2 litres per 100km while emitting between 159-172 grams of CO2 per km.

Meanwhile, the 3.0-litre inline turbo-petrol 40i produces 250kW from 5500-6500rpm and 450Nm from a wide 1500-5200rpm while sipping 8.0-8.6L/100km and emitting 181-197g/km of CO2.

As for the M Performance variants, Australia will be treated to the M50i at launch, which is underpinned by a 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 tuned to produce 390kW from 5500-6000rpm and 750Nm from 1800-4600rpm while drinking 10.4-10.7L/100km and emitting 237-243g/km of CO2.

The only version not destined for Australia is the M50d that takes its engine from the 30d and adds not one, not two, but three extra turbochargers to increase outputs to 294kW at 4400rpm and 760Nm from 2000-3000rpm.

Fuel economy is pegged at 6.9-7.2L/100km, while carbon emissions stand at 181-190g/km.

All four variants employ BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system, with power being channelled to the wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The new X6 is 26mm longer and 15mm wider than its predecessor, partly thanks to its 44mm-wider track and 42mm-longer wheelbase.

Its wider track, along with a 6mm reduction in roof height, helps give the new X6 a lower centre of gravity, which increases agility.

Like the previous version, the new X6 shares a similar front end to the X5, however the signature kidney grille will be offered with an illuminating function that works when opening or closing the car. Alternatively, it can be turned on and off manually.

LED lights and 19-inch wheels are offered as standard, while the Laserlight adaptive LEDs and hoops up to 22 inches in size are available optionally.

M Sport and xLine trim levels are available, the former of which features adaptive M suspension, a M Sport differential on the rear axle, and M Sport brakes with blue callipers. Carbon side-mirror caps and a carbon-fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) spoiler are available as options.

Two-axle air suspension with automatic self-levelling is also optionally available.

At the rear, the X6 features its classic sloping roofline, slimmer tail-lights and rear air vents which add to its sporty character.

Due to its roofline, the X6 features less boot space than the X5, with 580 litres (down 70L), which increases to 1525L (down 345L) with the 40/20/20 split-fold rear seats folded.

Inside, the X6 features much of the same equipment as the X5, including standard Vernasca leather upholstery, heated sports seats, 2.5-zone automatic climate control, wireless phone charging and twin 12.3-inch displays for the instrument cluster and central touchscreen. Both are powered by BMW’s Operating System 7.0 infotainment system, which features intelligent voice control.

X6 examples come with active safety technology such as adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian detection, front and rear parking sensors, parking assist and traffic sign assist.

Through the first five months of the year, BMW has sold 102 examples of the X6, down 32.9 per cent on the 152 sale sit managed to the same point last year.

More local details on the X6, including pricing and specification, will be released closer to the model’s launch in the fourth quarter of this year, although punters can expect the X6 to attract a premium over the X5 which starts at $112,900 for the 30d.