2013 BMW X6 M Review
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EngineTwin-Turbo 4.4L V8
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Power555 HP / 500 LB-FT
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Transmission6-Speed Auto
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0-60 Time4.5 Seconds
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Top Speed155 MPH
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DrivetrainAll-Wheel Drive
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Curb Weight5,324 LBS
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Seating2+2
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Cargo59.7 CU-FT (max)
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MPG12 City / 17 HWY
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When it comes to automotive oddities, the BMW X6 is one for the books thanks to its unusual chopped-roof crossover styling – a combination that BMW has long referred to as a "Sports Activity Coupe." But the BMW X6 M, the low volume high-performance variant, turns things up with oversized Matchbox-like wheels, a criminally powerful engine under hood and plenty of go-fast goodies. While it is far from appearing dated, BMW nevertheless made a few tweaks for the 2013 model year.
Driving Notes
- Subtle enhancements include a 'power bulge' hood (identical to the one used on the now-defunct BMW X6 ActiveHybrid), minor cosmetic tweaks to the BMW-signature kidney grille and headlight improvements (HID beams are standard with LED headlights new to the options list). Wrapping up the changes, the brake calipers have been painted "M Blue" and front sport seats are now fitted at no additional cost. (The M graphics, and other carbon fiber components as shown above on our test vehicle, are additional options or dealer accessories.)
- The X6 M drives just as wickedly as it looks. The twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 pumps out a very impressive 555 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque, which is enough muscle to propel the 5,324-pound five-passenger CUV to 60 miles per hour in 4.5 seconds (top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph).
- Massive tires (275/40R20 up front and 315/35R20 in the rear) and permanent all-wheel drive means the M has the tenacity and grip of a gecko, while sport suspension tuning helps it maintain its poise on even the most challenging roads.
- The X6 M is a real hoot to drive. The commanding seating position, bolstered sport seats and thick steering wheel immediately put the driver in the proper mindset. It seriously scoots once the turbochargers are spooled (leaving an aggressive exhaust note in its wake) and the well-tuned underpinnings deliver mass-defying agility.
- Despite the crossover's kick-in-the pants performance, we found the X6 M a single-mission vehicle – the hatchback is big, but its utility value is rather low. Not helping matters is a high curb weight, high drag coefficient (0.38) and a thirsty engine. Those combine to mean owners will spend lots of time opening the fuel filler door (the EPA rates the X6 M at 12 miles per gallon city and 17 mpg highway).
- Feeding the beast is costly, but so is its base price. The 2013 X6 M, the Ultimate Driving Machine for the wealthy few who appreciate its styling (and absurdity), starts at $93,795 including destination.
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