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2018 BMW X6 review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise

BMW X6 highlights

Customer rating

Pros

  • Powerful engines
  • High levels of comfort
  • Refined and luxurious interior

Cons

  • Limited rear passenger and cargo space
  • Compromised rear visibility

Mileage (EPA estimate)

14 city, 19 highway, 16 combined

Pricing for current inventory

(no current inventory)

Price
Year

2018 BMW X6: The sportier utility vehicle

If today's SUVs are getting boring and predictable, the burgeoning subsegment of coupe-like utes may have the excitement and style you're looking for. The BMW X6 started this revolution when the first-generation model debuted in 2007, and the 2018 X6 keeps the fire lit. It's based on the more conventional and boxy X5, but it opts for a sloping rear roofline for a sportier appearance. That fastback rear makes the X6 stand out from the crowd but also reduces practicality in regard to passenger and cargo space.

For 2018, the BMW X6 was updated with a new iDrive infotainment system, and the rearview camera has been included as standard on all models. These upgrades keep it competitive against the few other coupe-like SUVs, which include the Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe and Land Rover Range Rover Velar. If you're not committed to the sporty roofline, the Porsche Cayenne and Audi SQ5 are equally fun to drive and don't sacrifice as much convenience.

All BMW X6 years

What is new for the 2018 BMW X6?

  • Lane Departure Warning and Tow Hitch features are now available as options on select trims.
  • The XDrive35i trim now comes with Rear View Camera as standard equipment.
  • The SDrive35i trim now comes with Rear View Camera as standard equipment.

2018 BMW X6 trims

Curious how BMW X6 trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

SDrive35i:

XDrive35i:

XDrive50i:

  • Includes all features available on the XDrive35i
  • 445-hp, 480-lb-ft of torque 4.4L
  • Seat Massagers
  • Rear Air Conditioning
  • Harman Kardon Sound
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • View our BMW X6 XDrive50i inventory

M:

  • Includes all features available on the XDrive50i
  • 567-hp, 553-lb-ft of torque 4.4L
  • Adjustable Suspension
  • 20 Inch Plus Wheels
  • View our BMW X6 M inventory

5 reasons to buy the 2018 BMW X6

What We Like

Strong performance: If you're looking for a sporty alternative to the typical SUV, the X6 has you covered. The base 300-horsepower six-cylinder is plenty quick and accelerates the vehicle to 60 mph in just 5.8 seconds. If you want even more power, there's the option of the 445-hp V8. While the V8 may be tempting for those who crave power, the base six-cylinder should be more than sufficient for most drivers.

Overall comfort: The X6's suspension has been tuned for sporty handling, making it more agile than your typical SUV. While this does make the ride slightly firmer than the X5, it's still very comfortable for long journeys. The front seats are also designed with comfort in mind, with plenty of cushioning and support to help you arrive fresh at your destination. All of these features combine to create a driving experience that's both athletic and relaxing.

Luxurious interior: The X6's interior blends style and functionality with a design that is similar to other high-end BMW models. The materials used are top-quality, with premium leather upholstery and tasteful trim accents. The construction is also noteworthy for its solid feel. Overall, the X6's interior is a testament to BMW's attention to detail and commitment to providing a luxury experience for its drivers.

What Needs Improvement

Less practical than other SUVs: The X6's sporty roofline may give it a unique appearance, but it ends up reducing rear headroom and legroom as well as cargo space. Compared to the X5, the X6's cargo capacity is quite a bit smaller. That means if you're planning on hauling a lot of people and gear, you'd be better off with the X5 or another more conventional SUV.

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

2
1
2
Average

RepairPal gave the BMW X6 an overall reliability rating of 2.5 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Average. This rating ranks BMW X6 11th out of 20 among Luxury Fullsize SUVs.

View RepairPal's full rating of the BMW X6

BMW X6 features and specs

SDrive35i 2WD 4D Sport Utility

Standard Features

  • ABS Brakes
  • Air Conditioning
  • Alloy Wheels
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • CD Audio
  • Cruise Control
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Head Up Display
  • Leather Seats
  • Memory Seat(s)
  • Navigation System
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Parking Sensors
  • Power Hatch/Deck Lid
  • Power Locks
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Seat(s)
  • Power Windows
  • Rear Defroster
  • Rear View Camera
  • Run Flat Tires
  • Side Airbags
  • Sunroof(s)
  • Traction Control
  • Turbo Charged Engine
  • 20 Inch Plus Wheels
  • A/C Seat(s)
  • Adjustable Suspension
  • Apple CarPlay
  • Automated Cruise Control
  • Bang & Olufsen Audio
  • Blind Spot Monitor
  • Harman Kardon Sound
  • Head Up Display
  • Heated Steering Wheel
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Leather Seats
  • Rear Air Conditioning
  • Rear Entertainment System
  • Rear Seat Heaters
  • Rear Sunshade
  • Running Boards
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Smart Key
  • Tow Hitch

Drive Wheels

Rear Wheel Drive (2WD)

Engine size

3.0L

Horsepower

300

Torque (ft-lbs)

300

Engine type

Turbo Gas

Fuel capacity

22.4

Wheelbase

115.5"

Overall length

193.8"

Width

78.3"

Height

67"

Leg room

F 40.3"/R 35.6"

Head room

F 39.3"/R 37.2"

Front tires

P255/50HR19

Rear tires

P255/50HR19

Seating capacity

5

Max towing capacity

600/6000 lbs.

Transmission

Automatic

2018 BMW X6 FAQ

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