11 Sep 07
BMW is calling it a concept, but word is that this show car is pretty close to the real deal. And the production X6 will even be offered with the show car's ActiveDrive hybrid technology, as well as conventional petrol and diesel powertrains from the BMW range.
BMW describes the X6 as a sports activity coupe. It's a 2+2 with a similar relationship to the X5 as the Range Rover Sport has to the big-daddy Range Rover. That is, lower slung, more rakishly roofed and more performance orientated, and with less focus on off-road ability, though it does retain the xDrive four-wheel drive system, and adds a new stability control system, Dynamic Performance Control, for further on-road precision. It also has bulging wheel arches, big bumpers and large wheels.
The Active Hybrid system, part of BMW's Efficient Dynamics package and co-developed in partnership with DaimlerChrysler, is said to reduce fuel consumption by 20%. It has two modes of operation, with the electric motor assisting at start-up and again at higher speeds to imperceptibly boost torque. The X6 hybrid can travel short distances under electrical power only.
Production of the X6 with conventional engines will start in Spartanburg, North Carolina, alongside the X5 next year, with the hybrid following in 2009. Ultimately, similar hybrid technology will be offered throughout the BMW line-up.
Check out the rest of our Frankfurt Motor Show coverage
