The largest of BMW's so-called sports activity coupes, the X6, is actually a raised hatchback with four doors and the cargo capacity of a crossover. The 2019 BMW X6 does fit its official classification in one objective measure: performance.
The X6 is essentially unchanged. A total redesign is expected for 2020.
The X6 starts out with a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine that sends 300 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque to the rear wheels. BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system is optional. Either way, six-cylinder models are EPA-rated 18 miles per gallon city, 24 mpg highway, and 20 combined.
xDrive50i models come standard with a twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8, which lays down 445 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque. Despite their relative ferocity and all-wheel drive, V8 models earn EPA ratings of 17/22/19 mpg (city/highway/combined). Every X6 gets an eight-speed automatic transmission.
With the rear seat folded, the X6 offers 59.7 cubic feet of cargo space, about the same as a compact crossover.
The 2019 BMW X6 lineup consists of two basic models (six-cylinder and V8), available with the customary BMW option designs, tiers, and packages:
The X6 35i starts at $64,545 (all prices include the $995 destination charge) with the six-cylinder engine and rear-wheel drive (sDrive, in BMW vernacular). The xDrive35i carries a base price of $66,845. Standard features on both include navigation, a sunroof, leather seats, power-folding heated mirrors, adaptive headlights, a power liftgate, and wood or aluminum interior trim. The M Sport Design theme ($4,350) adds an aerodynamic body kit, specific wheels, sport seats, a sport steering wheel, and a hands-free power liftgate.
Many popular options are grouped into three progressive tiers. The Convenience Tier ($1,150) adds four-zone climate control, one year of SiriusXM satellite radio, and keyless entry. The Premium Tier ($2,900) provides the features from the Convenience Tier, a surround-view camera, park assist, a head-up display, wireless charging, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and enhanced USB and Bluetooth. The Executive Tier ($4,950) builds on the Premier and adds power soft-close doors, rear sunshades, full LED exterior lighting, and automatic high beams.
Beyond that, buyers can add the Driving Assistance Plus Package ($1,200) with adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and forward collision warning with pedestrian detection. The Luxury Seating Package ($1,350) furnishes multi-contour seats that are ventilated up front, the Parking Assistance Package ($700) brings the surround-view camera system and park assist, and the Lighting Package ($1,900) equips the X6 with adapative LED lights and automatic high beams. Two interior design packages are available for $1,950 each that unique add leather upholstery and trim. A Dynamic Handling Package ($4,500) is available on xDrive35i models that increases stability in turns while enhancing ride comfort.
Individual options for the 35i include a 16-speaker Harman Kardon sound system ($875), a top-shelf Bang & Olufsen audio system ($4,500), an adaptive suspension ($900), heated rear seats ($350), and a heated steering wheel ($190).
For $79,295, the xDrive50i delivers V8 power and standard all-wheel drive. The Luxury Seating Package is also standard, as are the Harman Kardon system and four-zone climate control. The M Sport Design treatment remains optional, although the price dips to $2,850.
The Convenience Tier is now standard, but the Premium Tier ($1,750) and Executive Tier ($3,800) return with the same equipment and lower prices. The same packages and individual options offered on the 35i return for the same prices on xDrive50i models.
The V8-powered xDrive50i delivers thrilling acceleration with hardly any loss in efficiency. Combine that with its standard all-wheel drive and enhanced features, and it emerges as the better value in the 2019 BMW X6 lineup – despite its higher price.
