The first-generation BMW X6 was an absolute game-changer in the car industry. It was the first Sports Activity Coupe (SAC), or as BMW says SAV (Sports Activity Vehicle). It was a very controversial car, but that didn’t stop many people from buying it due to how different it was. It took other manufacturers a large number of years to create a competitor for the X6.
The first-generation X6 (codename E71) was produced from 2008 to 2014 and it was built in the USA alongside its sibling car the X5 on which it is based. The X6 originally featured four seats but from 2011 onwards a 5th seat was optional. The sloping roofline made the rear seats though far less practical. Nevertheless, four average-sized people can sit in the X6 comfortably.
The first-generation X6 is a pretty cheap car nowadays with many going for around $15,000 which seems like a bargain. Or is it? With questionable reliability, expensive parts, and also pretty thirsty engines are the first-generation X6 really a car for you? Let’s find out.
picture via cargurus.com
Stylish Inside and Out.
via: carsmind.com
The first-generation X6 is perceived by many to be an ugly car. In my opinion, that is not the case. The X6 isn’t a car that would be considered artwork, but neither is it something so hideous that it should be banned due to public decency. The front of the car is very similar to the E70 X5. In fact, the X6 M and X5 M models share the same front bumper. The front bumper is quite aggressive though it’s not as over the top as some of the newer BMW models today.
The side of the car is the best bit. The sloping roofline makes the design of the first-generation X6 look timeless. I really do like it and I love how BMW really took a gamble and put in 100% of their effort on making an SUV look like a coupe. It is actually quite minimal in that BMW hasn’t messed around with any weird creases or any of that nonsense trying to make the car stand out. Instead, the X6 has a sharp crease going across the side of the car that adds a bit of character.
The rear of the car arguably is the worst bit. It’s quite tall and that makes the car look quite fat. I’m not too bothered by the rear but I know for a fact that it isn’t my favorite bit about the car. Overall though, the exterior design is quite sporty and it is a great attempt at making an SUV look like a coupe.
Inside, the X6 is near enough the same as the X5 from that generation. It’s quite large and everything on the dashboard is easily accessible. The vents in the middle do dominate the center dash since they are just so huge. The earlier original X6 models had a horrible infotainment system that is almost impossible to use, and if you do buy an X6 that has that system fitted it is best to replace it with something newer. Newer models received a newer i-Drive system, which was far easier to use. Furthermore, original cars had a very weird paddle shifter in which sometimes both seemed to do the same thing. Build quality too in places can be a bit poor as well.
The rear of the car is quite dark, so you can feel quite claustrophobic back there. The rear seats are quite spacious, and you would expect that considering the X6 is based on an X5 platform. the middle section includes some storage area, though on later models this could be changed for an additional seat which was pretty useless since it was so small. If you have an earlier model and want 5 seats you always can buy a conversion kit. The flat floor in the back does help massively with legroom though.
Overall, inside and out the X6 isn’t too bad. It has its flaws such as build quality in places but overall it isn’t a bad design. You could just about get away using it as a family car due to just how large it is. the X6 won’t look out of place anywhere, even in the poshest of areas.
It Drives Well
via: autogespot.com
BMW has always made SUVs that drive like normal cars. It’s the USP (unique selling point) and it has worked very well. the first-generation X6 includes BMW’s groundbreaking Dynamic Performance Control System (DPC) which works in collaboration with BMW’s xDrive AWD system. It’s a drive terrain and chassis control system which helps with things like traction ensuring the car does not oversteer or understeer.
The X6 also has torque vectoring whereby torque is disturbed side-to-side throughout the rear which increases grip and agility. DPC also features clutch packs on either side which helps distribute power through the wheels and maintain stability. A lot of interesting stuff, most of which is expensive to repair but nevertheless, it does help the X6 feel more car-like.
One issue is that the X6 has a terrible off-road capability. However, this is something BMW is willing to sacrifice since not many SUV owners actually take their SUVs off-road. The most off-roading an X6 owner will do is probably a muddy car park, and even there the X6 will get stuck.
The X6 M takes the driving experience to another level. With its 542hp 4.4 twin-turbo V8, that car can accelerate to 60 in just 4.4 seconds and it truly is a beast around the corners. It features lower suspension and larger wheels which do affect ride quality, but all of this is for a good cause. The pursuit of speed.
Diesel X6 models can sound a bit tractor-like, and also be a little sluggish. Petrol models can be smoother but a lot thirstier since the X6 is a large heavy car.
Overall though, you will be surprised at just how good an X6 drives. It surely is like no other SUV on the road as it feels so car-like.
To Conclude.
via: cargurus.com
The X6 is a car that has a checkered reliability history and expensive parts. However, it drives well, looks decent, and is somewhat practical. Prices for used ones are cheap and they can be unreliable. However, find one that has a good maintenance record and has been looked after and you should be ok. If you buy one that is an absolute dog, then you will get maintenance issues and recurring maintenance bills. Just like any other premium car.