BMW X6 review

When it launched in back in 2008, the BMW X6 controversially started the SUV Coupe craze.

Pros: Sharper styling, refined drive, interior quality and finish

Cons: Expensive entry price, rear seat headroom, strong rival offerings

When it launched in back in 2008, the BMW X6 somewhat controversially started the SUV Coupe craze. Twelve years later, the X6 continues to feature in BMW’s luxury line-up and competes against the Audi Q8, Mercedes GLE Coupe and Porsche Cayenne Coupe to name a few. For 2020, the new third generation X6 is longer, wider, lower and more in your face than before.

BMW X6 2020

Starting outside, the most notable change is the enormous front kidney grille, which carries on from the BMW X7 and has integrated LED lighting which looks quite impressive at night time. Along the sides the panels are more sculpted, while at the rear there are these large air ducts which actually don’t serve any purpose, they are fully enclosed inside. The rear end of the X6 has always been a cause for controversary but it’s a definite improvement on the outgoing model.

Riverside Blue Metallic BMW X6

It’s hard not be impressed by the finish of the interior, especially with this optional carbon fibre detailing package. BMW’s latest iDrive system is very impressive to use, with crisp graphics and gesture control. Everything feels premium to the touch and high quality, with the crystal gear knob from the latest X5 also making an appearance.

BMW X6 interior third generation

Space is very good up front and it’s a similar story for passengers in the rear with lots of leg room and shoulder room, although the sloping roofline leaves less headroom for taller passengers. Boot space is the same as before, with 580 litres of room when the rear seats are in place, or 1530 litres when the rear seats are dropped down. That is plenty of space for a set of golf clubs, although the sloping roof line again makes it less practical than traditional SUVs such as the BMW X5.

BMW X6 rear seats

The X6 is available with four different engines, two petrols and two diesels. We drove the entry diesel version, the xDrive30d, which is the one to go for if you are looking for better running costs. It is a three-litre twin turbocharged unit that can sprint from 0-100km/h in 6.5 seconds, and return around 6.2-litres per 100 kilometres in fuel economy.

BMW X6 cabin and leather upholstery

The X6 feels very assured to drive and quite agile even though it is a large and lofty SUV. It’s very comfortable and refined on the move, even with these large optional alloy wheels. Although it’s hardly thrilling to drive and someway off the Porsche Cayenne Coupe, for such a large SUV it handles better than we would have expected.

BMW Ireland X6 Coupe SUV

The newly updated X6 won’t be to everyone’s tastes, but for in the niche Coupe SUV class it remains one of the top choices. It’s more refined than before, it certainly stands out on the road and it’s also better to drive. With prices starting from over €90,000 for the entry specification model it is by no means cheap, while our M Sport test car with all of its bells and whistles costs over €120,000! Check out Carzone.ie now for our full review of this car and to browse examples for sale in Ireland from trusted sellers.  

Test Car Details:

Model driven: BMW X6 30d M Sport

Price as tested: €120,797

Annual Motor Tax: €570

Engine: 3.0-litre six cylinder in-line diesel

Power: 320bhp

0-100km/h: 6.5 seconds

Transmission: Automatic

Body style: SUV

Boot Space: 580 litres

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