2021 BMW X6 M

History/Overview

BMW introduced the X6 M in 2010 as a high-performance extension of the X6 SUV lineup, which is itself essentially a more rakish version of the X5. BMW updated the X6 M in 2015 and launched a new generation last year.

What’s New/Key Changes From Last Year

New for 2021 is standard Android Auto smartphone connectivity, which joins the Apple CarPlay system carried over from 2020. Also, last year’s optional Competition package is now standard.

Available Trims

As BMW generally builds its trims around engine options, the X6 M comes in a single configuration powered by a 4.4L twin-turbo V8, an eight-speed transmission, and AWD.

Standard Features

The X6 M rides on 21-inch front and 22-inch rear wheels. Mechanical items include an M sport exhaust, active differential, adaptive suspension with roll stabilization, a power tailgate, passive keyless entry, soft-close doors, and laser headlights.

Inside, leather upholstery is standard, along with aluminum crossline trim. You also get a garage door remote, a panoramic sunroof, heated/power front sport multifunction seats with driver memory, heated rear seats, leather dash trim, four-zone A/C, ambient lighting, a head-up driver display, satellite radio, surround-sound audio, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, a leather-trimmed steering wheel, and a black Alcantara roof liner.

Safety features include automatic high beams, cross traffic alert, collision detection with city-speed automatic braking, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, speed limit info, and rear collision mitigation.

Key Options

X6 M options are bundled into three packages. The M enhanced group brings carbon fibre side mirrors caps and rear spoiler, and a carbon fibre engine cover.

The premium package adds a display key, WiFi hotspot, a parking assistant with surround-view cameras, a drive recorder, a fragrance vaporizer, heated/cooled cupholders, a panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats with massage, all-speed collision avoidance braking, traffic jam assist, wireless smartphone charging, and side sun shades.

An Ultimate package combines the items in the two previous packages, and adds the option of carbon fibre or piano black interior trim.

Fuel Economy

BMW’s fuel consumption estimates for the X6 M are 17.9/13.0 L/100 km (city/highway).

Competition

For the X6 M’s direct competitors, you have to look to a specific sub-set of the luxury mid-size SUV segment. That group consists of the Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 Coupe, and the Porsche Cayenne Turbo Coupe.