Auto 2011: BMW X6

Initially, the BMW X6 was available in North America (Now released in the UK) in two variants. Both use twin-turbocharged engines. The top-of-the-line model is the xDrive50i which uses an all-new 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine. This all new version of the 550i/650i's engine (N62) is being used with twin turbo technology from the 135i/335i.

2010 BMW X6

2010 BMW X6

It produces 408 PS (300 kW; 402 hp) between 5,500 and 6,400 rpm, and 600 N m (440 lb ft) of torque over a wide range of between 1,800 and 4,500 rpm. It is the first production turbocharged V8 engine in the world to feature its turbochargers between the 'V' section in the middle of the two banks of cylinders. The exhaust and intake manifolds are in the un-traditional position - exhausts top of the engine and engine intakes directed to the outer sides of the 'V'.
2010 BMW X6

2010 BMW X6

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Starting from late October, BMW will begin offering to North American buyers a suite of parts from its 'Performance Accessories' division for the X6 crossover. The range includes a power kit, styling package, unique alloys and a flat-bottomed steering wheel.

The power kit will be available for xDrive35i and xDrive50i models built between 2008 and 2010. New engine software is claimed to increase engine output and responsiveness without increasing fuel consumption or exhaust emissions.

On the xDrive35i, output is bumped up from 300-hp to 320-hp, and on the on the xDrive50i, from 400-hp to 440 hp. Torque is likewise improved, from 300 to 332 lb. ft. (407 to 450 Nm) on the xDrive 35i, and from 450 to 480 lb. ft. (610 to 651 Nm) on the xDrive50i.

Both models are 0.2 seconds faster to 60 mph (96 km/h); 6.3 seconds for the six-cylinder xDrive35i and 5.0 seconds for the V8 xDrive50i. Overtaking acceleration (50 to 75 mph / 80 km/h to 120 km/h) has also been improved by half a second.

BMW is has also prepared a performance aero kit consisting of redesigned front and rear bumpers, side skirts, rear bumper insert and the additional option of rear fins and a rear deck spoiler (which sits beneath the rear windshield).

Unique 21 inch alloys will also be offered: 10" x 21" wheels clad in 285/35/R21 rubber at the front and 11.5" x 21" wearing 325/30/R21s at the rear.

A racing-style, flat-bottomed multifunction steering wheel covered in hand-stitched Alcantara will also be available.

The performance aero kit and 21-inch alloys are available on all models except the X6 M and ActiveHybrid X6, whilst the multifunction steering wheel is unavailable on the X6 M and X6s equipped with the Lane Departure Warning system.

A high performance exhaust for the V8 and inline-six X6 models is also in development and is expected to be available this winter.

By Tristan Hankins

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