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| 2016 BMW X6 M |
The X6 M is a high-performance version of the standard X6 crossover, and if it handles anything like the previous version, it will truly be worthy of the M badge.
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| 2016 BMW X6 M |
The new M TwinPower Turbo engine for the BMW X6 M is the most powerful unit ever developed by BMW for an all-wheel-drive vehicle. Boasting innovative M TwinPower Turbo technology with a pair of TwinScroll turbochargers, cross-bank exhaust manifolds, VALVETRONIC and High Precision Direct Petrol Injection, the 4.4-litre V8 produces maximum output of 423 kW/575 hp between 6,000 and 6,500 rpm. That represents a four per cent increase over the predecessor models. The step up is even clearer when it comes to the power development of the new engine. Peak torque has been boosted by 70 Nm (52 lb-ft), which equates to a rise of 10 per cent. Its 750 Nm (553 lb-ft) can be enjoyed across a broad rev range between 2,200 and 5,000 rpm.
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| 2016 BMW X6 M |
A potentially weak link comes from the eight-speed transmission, which uses a torque converter instead of the dual clutch automated manual transmissions used in other M cars. BMW was forced to use a torque converter transmission because its dual clutch technology could not handle the engine torque combined with the all-wheel-drive system.
Most important for M performance, considering the size of this vehicle, is the handling. The prior generation was a near-miracle, using its adaptive suspension to feel like a much smaller car on a twisty road. BMW has been testing the new X6 M on the Nurburgring, and has had a few years to further refine its suspension technology. The new X6 M not only gets adaptive dampers, which react in milliseconds to changes in the car's roll and pitch angles, but also air suspension at the rear wheels.
