BMW X6 M Review: Six Pack

What we like:

Effortless performance

superb dynamics for something so tall and heavy

communicative steering

aggressive looks

purposeful exhaust note

What we dislike:

Limited practicality in such a big vehicle

thirsty

firm ride

Inside, the driver enjoys a driver oriented driving environment and highly adjustable, superbly comfortable sports seats. Thanks to the X6's relatively tall height compared to most other cars, the view out is a commanding one for the driver to say the least, while new dials and matt carbon fibre trim on the dash and centre console offer a more racy cabin atmosphere than in lesser X6 models. Other notable changes over a standard X6 model include M logos on the gear lever, doorsills and instruments. The dials are bespoke to the M model as well, offering a 300km/h speedometer to suit the X6 M's high performance potential. Build quality levels are high but perceived luxury lacks behind those of similarly priced Audi models or the Porsche Cayenne.

The X6's biggest failing is the shortage of room and load space behind the driver when compared to the slightly cheaper X5 M. Knee room for rear passengers is OK but headroom is a tad lacking and there is only seating for two at the rear. The boot is well shaped but it can't compare with the X5 for overall boot volume. The sloping rear hatch also means that the view out of the rear window is hugely limited - you wouldn't be able to sport the cops if one is tailing you on the expressway.

The X6 M offers even more standard kit than its $10k more affordable X5 M stable mate, including a Head-up Display that shows speedometer readings in standard mode but turn into a colour coded rev counter and gear position indicator when M Drive is set to sport and other kit. Oddly, hill descent control is included as standard kit - not that anyone will bring his or her X6 Ms off road.

There will undoubtedly be some that will think that the X6 M is a hugely confused car cause not many will understand what the X6 M is all about - is it a sports car or is it a SUV. Since SUV stands for Sport Utility Vehicle, the X6 M is probably the vehicle that puts the Sport in SUV, for it is quite possibly one of the sportiest handling and performing SUV ever, making the X6 M deservingly worthy of the M badge indeed.

Credits: Story and Photos by Raymond Lai