BMW X6

IF there is one thing BMW is not afraid of, it’s creating a stir! In recent years, the firm has been forced to weather criticism for the design of its latest 7-Series on the one hand, and on the other taken the plaudits for giving its X5 off-roader the kind of on-road handling normally reserved for sports cars.

The X6 is the latest radical design to join the range, and the 30d diesel version has already made a big impression in our Issue 1,014 test. So how do we rate the 306bhp 3.0-litre petrol-powered 35i?

Well, no matter what engine is under the bonnet, BMW’s self-proclaimed SUV coupé is guaranteed to turn heads. It’s simply enormous, and the blunt nose and arcing roofline provide it with a sporty and aggressive look.

On the road, the six-cylinder engine gives the newcomer the performance to match its striking styling. This is mated to a six-speed semi-automatic box, which channels power effectively to all four wheels.

The drivetrain isn’t perfect, however. We felt gearchanges were a little hesitant, and the petrol powerplant was rough low down in the rev range.

The ride is firm, and there is no getting away from those huge dimensions out on the road. Not only does the X6 feel cumbersome at the limit, it struggles on bumpy surfaces.

For those buyers who want to stand out from the crowd in the SUV class, these will be minor compromises. We can’t think of the last car we drove that made such a spectacular entrance.

Then again, customers who choose this BMW expecting yet another ultimate driving machine will be disappointed – because the flaws of the X6 are difficult to ignore.

So, once again, the blue propeller has created a car that is sure to polarise the driving world’s opinion.