2020 BMW X6 Review

　　

2020 BMW X6 Review

byJames Riswickzzdcar Contributor

　　James Riswick is an automotive journalist at zzdcar.

　　The third-generation BMW X6 debuts for 2020 and follows the same basic formula as its two predecessors: Take the BMW X5 — an upright and traditional luxury SUV — and slice off a bit of the roof to create a fastback coupe-like profile. It's a successful, if controversial, formula and one of the most influential in automotive history. Since the original X6 debuted, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche and more have released coupe variants of more staid SUVs to varying degrees of success.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2020 BMW X6 sDrive40i 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.78 per gallon for premium unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$203/mo  for X6 sDrive40i

　　X6 sDrive40i

　　sDrive40i 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A) - $64,300 MSRPxDrive40i 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A) (Most Popular) - $66,600 MSRPM50i 4dr SUV AWD (4.4L 8cyl Turbo 8A) - $85,650 MSRP

　　vs

　　$229/mo

　　Avg. Large SUV

　　Roofline aside, the new X6 mirrors the X5 in just about every way. You can pick from three models that are distinguished primarily by engine. The base trim is the X6 sDrive40i that comes with a turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder (335 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque). It's mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission that sends power to the rear wheels. The next step up is the X6 xDrive40i, which adds all-wheel drive.

　　At least for the time being, the X6 M50i is the top dog, sporting a turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 that increases output to 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque. All-wheel drive is standard. In the spring, it will be surpassed by the high-performance X6 M that will set itself apart from the rest with 600 hp.

　　As always, it's difficult to justify a purchase of this ilk. One of the most important reasons for getting an SUV is to transport more passengers and their things. Going with the X6 reduces that advantage, and you'll pay more for the privilege to boot. But the X6 does boast a sleeker silhouette, and that definitely counts for something on the emotional side of the car-purchasing ledger.

　　

Which X6 does zzdcar recommend?

We recommend going with either the two-wheel-drive sDrive40i or the all-wheel-drive xDrive40i. Sure, the X6 M50i offers greater performance and a killer soundtrack thanks to its stout V8, but the 40i offers plenty of grunt for day-to-day driving. The money you save compared to the V8-powered model is best spent on options such as the M Sport package, an upgraded interior and more driver assistance features.

　　

2020 BMW X6 models

The 2020 BMW X6 is offered in three basic trims: the rear-wheel-drive sDrive40i, the all-wheel-drive xDrive40i and the sporty, V8-powered M50i. There's also the high-performance X6 M, which is reviewed separately on zzdcar. Standard and optional features are similar for all three trims, so the main difference is what's resting under the hood.

　　The X6 sDrive40i and the X6 xDrive40i are both powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six (335 hp, 330 lb-ft) and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The sDrive40i sends power to the rear wheels, while the xDrive40i pushes power to all four with a slight penalty to fuel economy.

　　Standard feature highlights include LED headlights, 12.3-inch displays for both the infotainment system and instrument cluster, USB and USB-C ports, keyless entry with push-button start, automatic climate control, and a full suite of advanced driver safety aids (BMW's Active Driving Assistant). Apple CarPlay is standard, and Android Auto is coming in mid-2020.

　　The X6 M50i transplants a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 (523 hp, 553 lb-ft) in place of the inline-six, and it adds an M Sport differential, brakes, suspension and exhaust system as well as some X5 M-inspired visual cues. Standard features mirror those of the sDrive40i and the xDrive40i, though the M50i gets an upgraded Harman Kardon sound system, four-zone climate control, a wireless charging pad and sport front seats.

　　To bump up the X6's feature content even further, take a look at the Premium and Executive packages. You can also get the M Sport package (for the 40i) or the Dynamic Handling package (the M50i) to boost the X6's handling potential.

　　

2020 X6 Highlights

Type: SUVM50iSUV

　　Trim: sDrive40ixDrive40iM50isDrive40i

　　

Base MSRP	$64,300
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	23 MPG
Cost to Drive	$203/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	27.4 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	rear wheel drive
Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles