2013 BMW X6 M
source:leftlanenews
The X6 M is the high-performance variant of BMW's controversial X6 crossover. Mechanically identical to the more conventionally-styled X5 M, the X6 M uses a potent version of BMW's twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8.
Output is pegged at 555 horsepower at 5,750 rpm and peak torque is 501
pound-feet, available between 1,500 and 5,650 rpm. The car can
accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds, according to the
automaker. Fuel economy is rated at 12 mpg in the city and 17 mpg on the
highway
BMW is referring to the new 4.4-liter motor as its "M TwinPower Turbo"
unit. The name reflects the fact that the motor features Twin Scroll
Twin Turbo Technology and a common exhaust manifold encompassing both
rows of cylinders.
The X6 M and X5 M are the first xDrive all-wheel-drive vehicles from BMW
to sport the "M" badge. Coupled with special "M" air suspension
featuring Adaptive Drive and the newly developed Servotronic power
steering, the performance 'ute promises very competent handling. Other
high-tech features include launch control for maximum acceleration and
an "M" six-speed automatic optimized for performance. Drivers can
manually select gears using either paddles or an an electronic gear
selector lever.
Electronically controlled, variable power distribution to the front and
rear axle prevents even the slightest tendency to over- or understeer
right from the start, before DSC Dynamic Stability Control is even
required to cut in.
Although traction control is standard, the M Dynamic Mode (MDM) greatly
reduces the aggressiveness of the system. The MDM setting allows the
driver to enter a controlled drift and push the vehicle's handling to
the limit. There's also a DSC-Off Mode for drivers seeking a more purist
experience.
Interior options are what would be expected from a true luxury maker
such as BMW, and include an interior much more like BMW's 7-series
sedans (in execution, if not in size) than a sport-utility. All
materials are top quality, and the perforated upholstery is soft and
comfortable. Second row seating is spacious, but the third-row seats are
best left to the children. Climate and audio can be controlled
independently, as well as by that iDrive single-knob computer-screen
system (standard on both models) which has been the object of much
criticism, but does make the navigation system easy to operate.
Also note that the iDrive system (4th generation) received substantial
overhauling for the latest model year -- intended to improve user
friendliness. The new iDrive system features new graphics, controls,
improved menu structures, more functions and more intuitive function.
A lengthy list of options and features includes steering-linked
headlamps, multi-adjustable front seats, satellite navigation, rear seat
entertainment system, back-up camera, full-roof sunroof, heated and
ventilated front seats, driver's seat massage, front and rear climate
zones and more.
Key Competitors
Though no performance crossover can quite offer the styling drama (love it or hate it) of the X6 M, rivals to the BMW include the Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG, the Porsche Cayenne Turbo, the Range Rover Sport Supercharged and, at the lower end of the price spectrum, the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8
Though no performance crossover can quite offer the styling drama (love it or hate it) of the X6 M, rivals to the BMW include the Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG, the Porsche Cayenne Turbo, the Range Rover Sport Supercharged and, at the lower end of the price spectrum, the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8
