• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
•  

---

The 2020 BMW X6 has been revealed overnight ahead of a public unveiling at the upcoming Frankfurt motor show.

 

Like the X5 wagon, the new X6 is built on a new platform and features a fresh exterior, a heavily updated cabin with the brand’s latest infotainment system and new safety technology.

 

The third-generation of the SUV Coupe is larger than its predecessor, it’s now 26mm longer (to 4935mm) and 15mm wider (to 2004mm), while the wheelbase has been stretched by 42mm (to 2975mm). The front track is also 44mm wider (to 1684mm). The overall height has dropped by 6mm to 1696mm to lower the car’s centre of gravity.

 

Externally, the front end borrows heavily from the latest X5 while the bespoke rear is all new. The X6 will also debut the optional illuminated kidney grille.

 

On the inside, the dash layout and infotainment system are straight out of the X5 with the highlight being BMW’s new Live Cockpit Professional driven by the brand’s latest OS7.0 software.

 

The system combines two 12.3-inch digital screens and incorporates the Intelligent Personal Assistant that responds to the “Hey BMW” prompt. The system can be updated over the air via BMW’s new Remote Software Upgrade.

 

Vernasca leather upholstery is standard, as is a 40/20/40 split rear seat that can be folded down to increase boot capacity from 580 to 1530 litres.

 

Highlights from the options list include multifunction seats with massage function for the driver and front passenger, four-zone automatic climate control, thermoelectric cup holders, a panoramic sunroof, an air fragrancing package and a Bowers & Wilkins sound system.

 

At launch, European buyers will get the choice of two diesel and two petrol engines all of which are turbocharged and paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and xDrive all-wheel drive.

 

The range opens with the xDrive30d, it’s powered by a 3.0-litre inline six turbo-diesel producing 195kW and 620Nm. BMW says it can sprint from 0-100km/h in 6.5 seconds on its way to a top speed of 230km/h. On the combined cycle the xDrive30d drinks 6.1-6.6L/100km depending on the final configuration.

 

The M50d also uses a 3.0-litre inline six, however it gets a quartet of turbochargers to generate 294kW and 760Nm. It takes 5.2 seconds to complete the 0-100km/h dash and tops out at 250km/h. Fuel consumption is rated between 6.9-7.2L/100km.

 

For those wanting petrol power, the range starts with the xDrive40i, it uses a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six developing 250kW and 450Nm. Fuel consumption is rated at 8.0L-8.6L/100km, while the 0-100km/h sprint takes 5.5 seconds on its way to a top speed of 250km/h.

 

Until the fully loaded M version arrives, the M50i will act as the range-topper. It’s powered by a 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 producing 390kW and 750Nm. It can accelerate from 0-100km/h in 4.3 seconds with the top speed listed at 250km/h. Obviously, it’s thirstier using between 10.4L-10.7L/100km.

 

Dynamic Damper Control is included as standard while the adaptive M suspension professional with active roll stabilisation and active steering can be optioned. The X6 is also available with two-axle air suspension including automatic self-levelling.

 

An M Sport exhaust system is included with the M Performance models and optional on other variants. Buyers can also opt for an M differential lock on the rear axle.

 

The xDrive30d and xDrive40i will be available with an off-road package that allows the driver to choose from four modes that optimise progress over snow, sand, gravel or rocks.

 

BMW Australia has announced the new X6 will be available locally during the fourth quarter of 2019. At launch, it will be available in xDrive30d, xDrive40i and M50i guises.

 

Specifications and pricing for our market will be confirmed closer to the launch date.