2012 BMW X6

The 2012 BMW X6 has been praised for its powerful engine,sports car-like performance,spacious cabin and well designed interior. However,car shoppers who look for practical luxury midsize SUVs may find the X6 overwhelming.

In fact,most test drivers view the X6 as a sports car that is big enough to carry a family and strong enough to pull 3 tons of cargo that you cannot put inside.

Specifications

Engine

Two engines are available for the new BMW X6. First is the turbocharged inline-six 3.0 liter engine that delivers 300 horsepower and 300 lbs/ft of torque. The other is a turbocharged 4.4 liter V8 engine that produces 400 horsepower and 450 lbs/ft of torque. All trims for the X6 use BMW's proprietary all-wheel drive technology,the xDrive.

Performance

By just looking at the specifications,it is easy to discern that the X6 is fast and powerful. Test drivers say that driving the X6 is like driving a sports car. For its size,the X6 is very sporty. Whether you are in the city or on the highway,you can surely drive on the streets with fun and confidence.

The X6 has excellent grip as well,making the turns even in tight corners effortless. However,car shoppers who are looking for comfort may be deterred by the sporty ride that the X6 brings.

Exterior

The front fascia of the 2012 X6 looks aggressive and muscular. It bears the trademark BMW front grille and headlights that are organically shaped. The hood has definitive lines that contribute to the sporty appeal of the SUV. The sides have subtle curves and edges that make the X6 look sleek for its size. The rear,not having too many lines and fine details,looks neat. Overall,the X6 looks seriously sporty.

Interior

The typical BMW's gorgeous fit and finish can be found in the X6. The interior is made of top-quality materials and the seats accommodate passengers comfortably. The X6 does not lack technology features that can make your sporty ride more fun. However,very tall passengers may not find enough legroom in the backseats. They can sit on the front without any problems though. For some,the iDrive system seems too advanced and cumbersome.

Safety

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and the federal government are yet to crash test the X6. Nevertheless,the X6 is packed with features that ensure the safety of the driver and the passengers. These features include a rearview camera,lane departure alarm system,active cruise control,electronic stability control,cornering brake control and hill descent control.

Reliability

The 2012 X6 comes with a standard 4-year warranty and 24 hour road assistance during the warranty is in effect. X6 owners can also avail factory-recommended maintenance during the first four years without restrictions in mileage. This is average in its class.

Pros

The BMW X6 has powerful engines that can deliver sports car-like performance. The handling is nimble and sporty. The cabin is luxurious,the interior is made of high quality materials and the front seat is comfortable. The X6 has numerous safety features. The construction for the X6 is solid. Furthermore,the X6 has looks good enough to suggest its sportiness.

Cons

The backseat is small and the high tech features seem too advanced and cumbersome for most car shoppers. And it is expensive.

If you can afford the X6,you will definitely get what you paid for. But if you are a practical shopper,the X6 may just be too expensive.

Competition

Infiniti's FX35 (MSRP $45,150;16 city / 21 hwy) and the Porsche Cayenne (MSRP $48,200;15 city / 22 hwy) are two vehicles that the X6 has been compared to.

Overall Rating
72 out of 100

What others say:

"The 2012 BMW X6 isn't as roomy as a full-size SUV,but it's well-built and the sedan-like environment will appeal to many."Car Connection

"Dry-road grip and balance are very good on X6 models with the sport suspension and 20-inch wheels. On wet surfaces,X6s so equipped become more skittish,with lots of slowing required before entering corners."Consumer Guide

"The X6 platform benefits from all those well-engineered chassis that went before it. And while it sits higher than a 3 Series or 5 Series sedan,a rigid body structure,..."KBB

"Powerful and fuel-efficient base engine;wickedly fast V8;capable handling;comfortable front seats;solid construction"¦Limited backseat headroom with no adjustments;small cargo area;poor rearward visibility;hefty price;heftier weight."Edmunds