Fun, but still questioning its X6stence
By Thom Blackett
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April 18, 2008
Introduction
Introduction
What's New - The X6 makes its debut for 2008, entering the BMW lineup as a more sporting alternative to the more traditional X5 SUV. Two versions are offered - the 300-horsepower X6 xDrive 35i and the 400-horsepower X6 xDrive50i. The latter is the first BMW to use a twin-turbocharged V-8 engine.
What We Think - The style takes some getting used to, as does BMW's insistence on calling it a coupe, but a few miles behind the wheel helps offset some of that. Despite its long list of features, we're not sold on the $53,000 starting price or the form over function approach to what is essentially a funky SUV.
BMW X6 - 2008 First Drive: Some of the best creations are based on needs, many focused on the desire to be efficient and accomplish more in the same amount of time. We have computers and cell phones that provide a direct and often immediate line of communication, microwave ovens that feed a family of five in seconds, instant hot water heaters, and even robotic vacuum cleaners. With these products and the quickened daily pace that arrived as a result, car companies found it necessary to develop a slew of utility-related vehicles which allowed us to pick up the kids from school, drop the dog off at the groomer, and stop off at Home Depot, all in one trip while employing standard all-wheel-drive to make quick work of streets filled with 12 inches of fresh snow. There was a need, and in this case, minivans, SUVs and crossovers came to the rescue.
On the other end of the spectrum are answers to unasked questions. The 2008 BMW X6 is a good example. The maker of Ultimate Driving Machines is calling its newest creation a sport activity coupe, one that features all-wheel-drive and more than eight inches of ground clearance but lacks the utility and, arguably, the favored styling of the brand's X5 SUV. Ahh, but it is quick and fun to drive, and we'll be the first to admit that's all some vehicles require to exist. Still, the X6 fails to make its case. For buyers who want a powerful four-passenger ride they can find a genuine coupe or sedan, one with more attractive styling something better than great-for-an-SUV handling. Those who want utility, from optional third-row seating to even moderate off-road ability, there are countless offerings, including the aforementioned X5. With so many alternatives that make sense, we're left wondering - why?
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2008 BMW X6 - Notable Features
There's a lot packed into the all-new BMW X6 that should interest buyers, from a 205-watt sound system, standard all-wheel-drive, a long list of safety features ranging from dynamic stability control to front-side and side-curtain airbags, and yes, iDrive central command technology.
What's most notable, however, can only be found in the xDrive50i version of the X6. That's where you'll find the twin-turbocharged engine that puts out awesome power. You might think this is old news - BMW's been using a twin-turbocharged engine in its cars for a couple years now. True, but that's the 3.0-liter six-cylinder, good for 300 horses; the 50i marks the first time BMW has used a twin-boosted eight-cylinder engine, with the result being 400 ponies and 450 lb.-ft. of tire-shredding torque.
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2008 BMW X6 - Models and Pricing
As we were driving along the narrow back country roads not far from BMW's assembly plant in South Carolina, the X6's expected price became a topic of conversation. At the time, we weren't sure what it would be, but based on the 35i model that was carrying us down the road, our collective guesses put the starting price in mid-$40,000 range. Maybe it was wishful thinking.
Turns out the 2008 BMW X6 starts at $53,275 including a $775 destination charge. Yes - starts. That'll get you into the driver's seat of the base xDrive35i, which if you're a potential customer, you'll be happy to learn is far from basic. Besides a 300-horsepower engine and automatic transmission, the 35i features standard all-wheel drive, a host of handling and safety features such as front-side and side-curtain airbags, high-intensity discharge headlights (those that nearly blind you when coming form the opposite direction), 10-way powered front seats, Nevada leather upholstery, a power moonroof, dual-zone climate control, and a 205-watt sound system with 12 speakers and MP3 capability (an auxiliary jack is located inside the center console). Not enough to cover the asking price, you say? BMW might've anticipated that, and therefore tacked on a tire pressure monitor, active front head restraints, adaptive brake lights (vary intensity depending on pedal pressure), a memory function for the driver's settings, an automatic tilt-down passenger side mirror, parking sensors, dynamic cruise control, and iDrive. Oh, and we almost forgot - the vanity mirrors are illuminated. After all that, the $53,000-ish sticker might be a bit more palatable.
Then again, to some shoppers that list of equipment amounts to squat without a gggrowling V-8 engine under the hood. For them, BMW offers the X6 xDrive50i, powered by a 400-horsepower, twin-turbocharged eight-banger. Prices start at $63,775 including the $775 destination charge. Multi-contour seats and a navigation system are standard on this model.
If you've picked the X6 of your choice and yet the tax man continues to yell "Spend! Spend!" fear not - BMW has some options for you: Active Ventilated Seat package ($2,100 35i; $1,100 50i); Cold Weather Package ($900); Premium Package ($1,750); and the Technology Package ($2,000 and only on the 35i). Better yet, skip those and go for the Sport Package (up to $5,750 depending on content) that adds up to 20-inch alloys, electronic damping control, sport seats, and an increased top speed limiter.
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