2011 BMW X6 xDrive50i

(continued from above)

Improved performance and efficiency highlight the enhancements for the 2011 model year. The X6 xDrive35i receives a new turbocharges inline six. Both it and the twin-turbo V8 X6 xDrive 50i receive BMW's new 8-speed automatic transmission as well as Brake Energy Regeneration. The result is that X6 xDrive35i accelerates from 0-60 mph in 6.3 seconds (reduced by 0.2 seconds) while the X6 xDrive50i gets to 60mph in 5.2 seconds (reduced by 0.1 seconds). Both models boast improved efficiency. US EPA estimated efficiency for the X6 xDrive35i is 16 mpg city/23 mpg highway/ 19 mpg combined, about a 12 percent improvement over the previous model. For the V8 X6 xDrive50i, US EPA estimated efficiency is 14 mpg city/20 mpg highway/16 mpg combined, a six percent improvement over the previous X6 xDrive50i.

Unique Design: Dynamic Line, Powerful Presence

Just one look at the front end of BMW's new Sports Activity Coupe reveals the powerful presence of this unique vehicle. More surfaces finished in body color make the front end look lower and even more dynamic. The BMW DNA is also demonstrated in the design of the hood and in the vertically positioned BMW kidney grille, with fins finished in a sophisticated titanium color on the xDrive50i and in black on the xDrive35i.

Large air intakes are positioned near the corners for more than just meeting the cooling requirements of the powerful engines. Their position accentuates the wide stance of the X6 and give the front end a very aggressive demeaner.

The headlights themselves merge in a dynamic sweeping line into the fenders. The surface of the hood is divided by striking lines which taper out toward the BMW kidney grille like the borderlines of the engine compartment lid at the sides.

No view of the vehicle is more unique to the X6 than its profile. For example, the short body overhang at the front emphasizes the dynamic look of the vehicle. The roof line, which tapers out gently towards the rear and the long body overhang across the rear flanks, add to the stretched silhouette of a genuine coupe.

At the rear, the side window frame features the "counter-swing" at the bottom of the D-pillar, so well-known as the "Hofmeister kink" and chrome surrounds on the windows distinguish the BMW X6 xDrive50i from the xDrive 35i.

While the lines at the side highlight the elegance of the vehicle, the special design of the surface gives the BMW X6 a particularly powerful look from this perspective. Striking interaction of the concave and convex surfaces emphasize the muscular look of the vehicle, providing the BMW X6 with an excellent balance of visual power and stylish presence.

From behind, the BMW X6 offers a combination of elegance, sportiness and robustness all in perfect harmony. On the one hand, the ride height leaves no doubt that this is a member of the BMW X family and yet the vehicle proportions are typical of what one would expect of of a coupe.

BMW X6 xDrive50i: Review (2/2)