The BMW X6 is back on sale in India in its facelifted ‘LCI’ form, retailing at Rs 1.78 crore (ex-showroom). However, while the pre-facelift X6 was offered with a 340hp 3.0-litre turbo straight-six in India, the updated version is available in V8-powered M60i guise. We’ve reviewed the new X6, and listed below are three of its most prominent strengths and two of its notable weaknesses.
Pros
Thrilling performance
V8 develops 530hp and 750Nm
As mentioned above, the X6 M60i xDrive is powered by a 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 paired with a 48V mild hybrid system. The engine belts out 530hp and 750Nm, which is routed to all four wheels via an 8-speed torque-converter automatic. Performance is expectedly explosive, with the X6 scurrying off the line at full throttle and even spinning the tyres on looser surfaces.
Impressively, the X6 achieved a 4.11sec 0-100kph time in our testing, which is quicker than BMW’s claimed 4.3sec figure. Power delivery is relentless even as you venture into triple-digit speeds, until you hit the electronically limited 250kph top speed.
Engaging to drive
Throaty soundtrack and surprisingly nimble handling
Accompanying the X6’s exhilarating performance is a delightful driving experience. First up is the V8’s engine note, which is bassy at idle and grows louder and more aggressive when you engage the X6’s Sport Plus mode. As you traverse higher into the rev range, the V8’s baritone builds to a deep growl. It’s worth noting, though, that the X6’s speakers pump engine sound into the cabin.
Then comes the handling, which is shockingly good considering the X6 is a 2.4-tonne SUV. Body roll is only evident in the tightest of bends, with the X6 showing great poise otherwise, and the M Sport differential keeps the power flowing perfectly as you exit corners. The steering also provides the requisite heft and feedback you’d expect from a sporty BMW.
Luxurious and feature-packed interior
Virtually no hard plastics
Step inside the X6, and what immediately shines through is the exquisite quality of the materials used. No hard plastics are observable, unlike some newer BMWs, and almost every surface is soft-touch plastic, leather, aluminium or wood.
X6 buyers get a lot of tech and creature comforts on the inside, too, including a 14.9-inch infotainment touchscreen, a 12.3-inch digital driver’s display, a 16-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, a head-up display, a wireless charging pad, heated, ventilated and massaging front seats, an advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) suite, ambient lighting, auto park assist, connected car tech, a panoramic sunroof and more.
Cons
Relatively low boot space
Tall items could be difficult to fit
Among the biggest trade-offs of the X6’s sporty sloping roofline is reduced height in the boot, space for which is rated at 580 litres. While there’s a fair amount of depth, fitting items such as tall plants or golf clubs may be a bit of a squeeze.
Low-set rear seat
Short on thigh support
While BMW has managed to liberate decent headroom at the rear of the X6's cabin, thigh support is not that great due to the high floor and low-set bench.
Uday Singh
Dipan Sur
