Spy Shots: BMW X6 Spotted in California

A reader over at Jalopnik spotted this BMW X6 test mule driving on Pacific Coast Highway 1 in California. The pictures were taken while the both the reader and the X6 were in motion so quality is a bit jeopardized, but we’re a sucker for these things.

When the production version hits dealers in mid-2008, expect engine sizes to be similar to the BMW X5 with a 3.0 liter petrol and diesel, as well as a 4.8 liter V8 355 horsepower range topper. The car will go into production next year at BMW’s Spartanburg, South Carolina plant. Most of what you see here in the concept will be carried over to the production model next year.

Click through for more shots...
Read Article

M53R - 10/24/2007 12:19:41 PM

+5 Boost

The concept is the sexiest looking SUV (SAC, whatever). Puts any other SUV into shame, design wise.

DaHarder - 10/24/2007 1:40:58 PM

+1 Boost

This is no longer the concept, this IS the X6!

DaHarder - 10/24/2007 1:40:15 PM

+3 Boost

This vehicle has effectively dated (the already aging) Infiniti FX/RR Sport to the point of absolute irrelevance.

Though, to be quite honest, the X6 really has no competitor in the American market, as the FX, RR-Sport et al still have a much more 'upright' rear end designs masked by 'coupe-like' rear side windows.

The result is little more than creating the 'illusion' of a fast-back roof line, wheres the X6 is the Real Deal!

I95SPEEDINGTICKETS - 10/24/2007 1:47:45 PM

+2 Boost

I think BMW have a real gem here.

nybimmer - 10/24/2007 4:02:02 PM

-3 Boost

Pontiac Aztec, here we come. You can't see much under the camoflage, however note that the rear door glass now has two panes and a 2nd rear quarter window.

The X6 autoshow concept (which probably had non-working windows) had much sleeker 1-piece rear glass. Look closely at the pictures and you'll see. I don't think the real thing will be as good looking as the concept.

I95SPEEDINGTICKETS - 10/24/2007 7:25:28 PM

+2 Boost

Wow

You are very correct, it does make a considerable difference to the look of the vehicle.

But with the absence of any other Vehicles to compete with it i think we will have to make do with this.

The Range Rover Sport is just too Footballer's/Chavs over here in the UK. Everybody and their sister own one.

chris760 - 10/24/2007 7:44:17 PM

+1 Boost

definitely agree-the x6 redefines a stylish suv...love the headlight picture-aggressive

S4cabriofoxone - 10/24/2007 9:12:42 PM

+1 Boost

Well, nybimmer, how do you propose they could've designed an SUV without pillars that is safe? Unrealistic expectations. You're bashing them for things that cannot be fixed.

rhonig - 10/26/2007 7:26:20 AM

+1 Boost

nybimmer, it certainly does not look as nice as the concept with the addition of the roof pillars. Oh well... still sweet... still revolutionary... still want one.

ICON - 10/24/2007 2:01:44 PM

+2 Boost

Can't wait for this to arrive. This will change the game considerably. The Cayenne is looking a bit dowdy next to this.

DaHarder - 10/24/2007 2:35:35 PM

+1 Boost

Let's be truthful here...

The Cayenne drives well, and is quick, but it has always looked rather ungainly... and as of the recent 'restyle' out-and-out hideous!

DaHarder - 10/24/2007 2:39:33 PM

0 Boost

Let's be truthful here...

The Cayenne drives well, and is quick, but it has always looked rather ungainly... and as of the recent 'restyle' out-and-out hideous!

S4cabriofoxone - 10/24/2007 6:42:00 PM

+1 Boost

The Cayenne doesn't even drive particularly well. Read my review. The X5 drives better.

DaHarder - 10/25/2007 12:59:35 AM

+1 Boost

That's why I chose the X5/4.8is over the Cayenne S, though the Porsche was certainly not an unpleasant driver by any measure.

It was just too unfortunate to gaze upon!

EL34 - 10/24/2007 2:43:30 PM

+2 Boost

I love the BMW X6 and this is my next automobile :)

S4cabriofoxone - 10/24/2007 6:42:16 PM

+1 Boost

You've said that about how many cars now?

rhonig - 10/26/2007 7:09:40 AM

+1 Boost

I started the order list at my local dealership the week after concept introduction in Frankfurt. Make mine an X6 3.0 sd, hopefully orderable by Feb/Mar, whenever.

S4cabriofoxone - 10/24/2007 6:42:32 PM

+1 Boost

Super-hot. My interest in this car has once again peaked.

0to60 - 10/24/2007 8:47:49 PM

+1 Boost

I will be one of the first to have this!

vdiv - 10/24/2007 9:50:54 PM

+1 Boost

i refrain from judgment until i see it. wonder what bmw is doing with the x3. also think bmw is due for another retro revival like the z8.

S4cabriofoxone - 10/24/2007 11:48:29 PM

+1 Boost

BMW's retro models are a thing of the past... no pun intended.

BMW995 - 10/25/2007 12:55:02 AM

+1 Boost

Excuse me, but what is the purpose of this vehicle? If you want a sports Ute you'll buy their X5. If you want a sports sedan you'll buy the 535i. This looks like a sedan but has the chassis of the X5. What gives? Do you buy the X6 just to sit up higher? This car won't be cheap either. I guess BMW can create a new type of vehicle and the fans will line up to buy it now matter what.

DaHarder - 10/25/2007 1:00:57 AM

+1 Boost

Just wait until the Notch-Back version surfaces...

And It Will!

M53R - 10/25/2007 8:58:39 AM

+2 Boost

How about you think about it this way: X5 coupe with funky styling? It has the practicality of an X5 coupe (if that existed).

S4cabriofoxone - 10/25/2007 10:08:38 PM

+1 Boost

Or, you could say it's something SEXY. The X5 is a superb all-rounder, but it doesn't elicit the same desire in me like, oh, a high-powered BMW sedan.

The X6 will open a new segment of sexy SUVs, where the only truly desirable 'ute currently on sale is the Range Rover. It will do for luxury SUVs what the M5 has done for performance sedans.