The second-generation F16 BMW X6 first made its
world debut in June 2014, essentially a “coupe” version of the F15 X5 SUV. With
this heavily camouflaged G06 BMW X6 prototype seen out in the open, it’s clear that the F16 is due for a replacement, and soon.
This unit was spotted right outside BMW’s production
plant in Spartanburg, South Carolina, where the new G05 BMW X5 is being built.
Just like the previous model, the new X6 will share the same platform and
engine line-up as the X5.
From this set of photos,
one can clearly tell that the kidney grille has been enlarged, and the
headlights feature the same blue x-shaped elements that denote the availability
of BMW Laserlights (optional on the X5). Like the X5, Adaptive LED headlights
should come as standard, and the circular fog lamps – previously a staple of
BMW’s X range – is no more, replaced by a strip of LEDs.
The new Sports Activity Coupe (SAC)
looks set to get the same steeply-raked roofline as the new X4, tapering down
to meet seamlessly with the tailgate. It’s almost impossible to tell how the
rear section will look through all that camo wrap, but rest assured it won’t
veer too far from that of the X4. The tail lamps appear much slimmer than that
of the G05 X5, although they feature a curved LED strip not unlike that seen on
the new 8 Series.
Inside, expect the entire cabin of the G05 X5 to be
carried over – this means it’ll get a fully digital instrument cluster, a
high-res 12.3-inch Control Display, head-up display, BMW Live Cockpit
Professional and the latest iDrive control system. Other features should
include wireless charging, BMW Display Key, updated ambient lighting with
Welcome Light Carpet, Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System,
rear-seat entertainment and the same suite of Driving Assistant Professional as
the X5.
Powertrain options should mirror the X5’s range,
which includes a V8 petrol engine in the xDrive50i, a six-cylinder petrol in
the xDrive40i and two six-pot diesels in the (tri-turbo) M50d and the
xDrive30d. The highlight here is the 4.4 litre V8 in the xDrive50i, which packs
462 hp and 650 Nm of torque. This setup, together with an eight-speed automatic
in the X5 xDrive50i, is good for a 0-100 km/h sprint time of 4.7 seconds. The
previous X6 M, which will eventually be succeeded, gets there in 4.2 seconds
with 575 hp and 750 Nm of torque.
While the X5 can be had as a seven seater, the G06
X6 will accommodate no more than five individuals, or four adults (including
the driver) at best. Once out, it will go head to head against the all-new Audi
Q8 and the next-generation Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe.
Cr : Paultan
