Currently sitting atop BMW’s X6 range is the xDrive50i but if these latest spy shots and previous rendering are anything to go by there may be a new top dog in the X6 lineup, and this one could wear an M badge. After witnessing Porsche and AMG rack up thousands of sales with their respective Cayenne and ML models, BMW is now primed to launch its own high-performance version of the X6 SUV.
Speaking with Germany’s Auto Motor und Sport, the boss of BMW’s M division, Ludwig Willisch, revealed a host of new plans and some very odd omissions. In regards to an M variant of the X6, Willisch confirmed that performance models of the both the X5 and X6 were currently in the works and that BMW expected sales numbers to rival those of the M5.
A prototype for the performance SUV has now been spotted testing outside BMW’s Spartanburg factory in South Carolina where the X6 range of vehicles is manufactured. The images, courtesy of PalBay in Upstate, SC, reveal the new bumper design for the future model as well as its enlarged brake discs and quad exhaust tailpipe arrangement.
While still powered by BMW’s new 4.4L V8 twin-turbo engine, output is expected to be higher than the current 400hp (298kW) and 450lb-ft (600Nm) torque in the xDrive50i. The AWD configuration will also remain.
According to Willisch, the new M X6 will make its debut early next year.
As for the rest of the M range, Willisch said there will be no M3 Touring model, no 1-series based M car and definitely no M1 supercar. He also stated that an E92 CSL is unlikely to be produced because there isn’t a substantial market for such a car.
BMW M X6 August spy shots
BMW M X6 July spy shots
BMW M X6 June spy shots
BMW M X6 rendering
Reader Comments
Fri Jul 4 2008 6:45 AM
Dann says
so an X6 xDrive55i that's a mouthful, I reckon they will put the new V12 in it too and it will be the X6 xDrive65i
Tue Jul 8 2008 1:29 PM
gino says
How unfortunate looking.
Sun Jul 27 2008 12:40 PM
ver says
looks ok
Tue Jul 29 2008 2:09 PM
Andrew says
BMW, have you not learned a lesson from Chrysler (Avenger, Sebring, Patriot, Compass)? Stop making copies of worthless vehicles!!
Tue Jul 29 2008 5:22 PM
Guber says
Soon the M won't be as desirable like the AMG once was.
Tue Jul 29 2008 7:26 PM
NoNameDenton says
Stop doing perfomance SUV's, make light weight perfoamnce cars, light shedding some weight on the M3 (Like the CSL).
Wed Jul 30 2008 4:48 PM
Nike G says
Having M model for X6 is great idea. Don't forget those BMW fans which need much more space for their sport accessories. At least having M doesn't mean you have to race left and right. Having M model is style! There are a lot of people out there looking for stylish and safe car people for whom gas price is not an issue.
Wed Jul 30 2008 7:20 PM
NoNameDenton says
They could just bring the M-tuned wagons here to the States.
Mon Aug 25 2008 10:24 AM
Renton says
This car will completely kick arse.
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