BMW X6

As you can see, it’s set to cause a real stir in the SUV market, thanks to its sleek, coupé-like looks. Following on from our spy shots in Issue 970, these images, which were taken near to BMW’s Munich base, show the car virtually undisguised for the first time.

At the front, the newcomer takes its inspiration from the X5,
with wide kidney-shaped grilles and prominent headlights. But at
the rear, the X6 is totally different from its stablemate. The roofline slopes down across the tailgate and meets the high, tapered rump, giving the fresh model a coupé-style profile.

Set to slot into BMW’s range above the X5, it is aimed at
motorists who want an SUV which focuses on style as opposed
to practicality. Rather than having space for five, the X6 gets
only two chairs in the rear, so it’s a strict four-seater.

Dynamically, the double-wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear set-up have been tuned to be even more sporty than the X5’s, ensuring the X6 delivers excellent steering response and agility.
Under the bonnet, the SUV will offer the same engines as the X5, with the addition of BMW’s 3.0-litre twin-turbo petrol and diesel units. The range-topper will have a 4.4-litre petrol V8. The newcomer will make its world debut at January’s Detroit Motor Show, with sales starting in summer 2008. Prices will kick off at £40,000.