Are drivers of the BMW X6 M really poseurs or do they own one because this pumped up, all-wheel drive sport activity vehicle (SAV) from BMW’s M division is the real deal?
M-badged cars are a step above the regular product line-up because they include modified engines, transmissions, suspensions, interior trims, and exterior body parts that are designed for enthusiasts who are looking for that N-th degree of high performance from BMW. The 2016 X6 M lives up to that tradition with a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 that develops 567 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. Zero to 60 mph is accomplished in 4.0 seconds and massive six-piston calipers haul down this 5,185 pound beast down to zero again.
Getting power to the ground is BMW’s Dynamic Performance Control that continuously distributes torque between the rear wheels. The system works together with the xDrive all-wheel drive system to distribute power between the front and rear axle. A sophisticated suspension system makes the X6 M handle like an M3 sedan. A 10mm (0.39-inch) drop in ride height lowers the center of gravity while firmer shocks keep body roll to a minimum. Active Roll Stabilization, revised upper control arms with optimized camber settings and steering pivot axis help deliver precise turn-in and cornering performance. The driver can change the SAV’s Dynamic Damper Control settings by choosing between COMFORT, SPORT, and SPORT+ modes.
The 2015 X6 M has a starting price of $103,050. That includes the $950 destination and handling fee. Expect to see the X6 M reach dealer showrooms by the spring of 2015.
Class Competitors
2015 Porsche Cayenne Turbo rolls with a revised twin-turbo V8 rated at 520 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. MSRP for the Cayenne Turbo starts at $113,600.
2015 Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG 4MATIC does not disappoint with a 5.5-liter twin-turbo generating 518 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. MSRP for the German rival is $98,400.
