Third-generation BMW X6 coupe-SUV unveiled internationally

BMW has unveiled the third-generation of the BMW X6 coupe-SUV internationally, a car that pioneered this sub-segment, to begin with. Like its more mainstream relative, the BMW X5, the X6 moves to BMW CLAR architecture and comes with a noticeably larger footprint than the earlier car.

The X6 is now 26mm longer, 15mm wider and 6mm lower than before. The wheelbase has grown by 42mm as well. As with most new BMW SUVs, the styling is dominated by the larger kidney-grille, which can now be optionally illuminated for the first time. Also new is the styling, with the heavy sculptures on the bonnet and sharp lines on the rear haunches which meld with the more aggressive bulges along the sides. The blue-tinged laser headlamps are now a bit slimmer and the coupe roofline is now more heavily raked. The rear is reminiscent of the X4, with its wide slim headlamps and the notched hatch. Two styling options are available, the more luxury-oriented xLine and the sportier MSport with its more aggressive bumpers, air-intakes and gloss black trim.

The interiors closely mimic that of the X5. You have the new seven-iteration of the iDrive infotainment system equipped with a digital assistant, with its 12.3-inch infotainment screen and a similarly sized digital cockpit. There are the glass-elements on the centre-console, the slim-AC vents and band of physical switches, all of which is angled towards the driver. Notable features are the multifunction seats with massage function for the driver and front passenger, four-zone automatic climate control, thermoelectric cup holders,  the panoramic glass roof, an interior fragrancing package and the optional Bowers & Wilkins sound system.

Safety is well taken of with an active cruise control feature, collision and pedestrian warning. Optional is the lane keeping and assitant, steering and emergency stop assistance functions. The new X6 will also get the two-axle air suspension with an 80mm of variation in ride height with active roll stabilisation ad rear-wheel steering. Four engines are available at launch. This is headlined by the M50i and M50d. Both only come with M Sport package, the petrol powered by a 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 with 537PS and 750 Nm and the diesel with a quad-turbo inline-six diesel with 405PS and 760 Nm. The other two versions are the xDrive40i and the xDrive30d. These make 268PS/620Nm and 345PS/450 Nm. These are the versions likely to come to India. All engines come paired with the ZF eight-speed auto and the xDrive AWD system. The M models get an active M exhaust as standard, while an active rear differential is also available with these cars or the option xOffroad package.

The new X6 is set to be launched internationally in November 2019, an India launch will most probably follow after that. The new X6 looks like it brings more space and better comfort to this package, some of the earlier car's misses.

See more pictures of the new X6 here