2010 BMW X6 xDrive 50i 8AT AWD (408 HP)

Vehicle Overview

BMW had to refresh the X6 in 2009 due to the introduction of the Euro5 emission standards, and besides some improved engines, it also added a hybrid version.

But that wasn’t the automaker’s only change for the Sports Activity Coupe vehicle. There were several other improvements both on the car’s exterior and inside the cabin. But, despite all the changes, sales were not as high as expected due to the world financial crisis that crippled the market.

BMW introduced the X6 in 2008, and the unusual-looking bodywork was named Sports Activity Coupe. It was an SUV based on the same platform as the X5 but with a sloped roof at the back. For the 2010 model-year, the car went through some visual changes, such as redesigned headlights. The automaker also installed a new hood, with a power dome on it, for the Active Hybrid and the M-powered versions.

One of the most significant upgrades on the car was found on the interior. BMW listened to its customers and heard them complaining about the four-seat-only option, and reshaped the rear bench seat to make room for three. Still, the trunk space was small when compared to other SUVs on the market.

Under the hood, the automaker revised the engine lineup. Europeans could get the crossover with a twin-turbocharged diesel unit, such as the 4.0d version, which added almost 20 ponies to the herd. The base version also got more grunt. Last but not least, the Active Hybrid version was added and promised excellent fuel efficiency. It was better than the 50i version but not as good as its main rivals on the market.