BMW X6 xDrive 30d

Yes sequels are good

Although the saying goes Otherwise, the X6 shows that it is not always true. The second generation of one of the most charismatic SUV segment, comes with a number of improvements as a whole, six years after it appeared on the market. The xDrive 30d diesel engine is an example of how you can combine performance and efficiency.

In its first generation has sold more than 250,000 units, thereby strengthening its position among the best cars in its class. But as often happens in these cases is not recommended for complacency, as competition continues to grow in number and pressing quality.

Lighter

Before going into detail with our trial version, I will make a brief review of the novelties introduced the second generation X6. Changes that you feel great and, aesthetically, focus on a head that turns to fit design standards that the Bavarian manufacturer has introduced its latest market launches.

Chevrons highlights the most stylized grill, combined with new air intakes, fog lights located in a higher position and, of course, their bi-xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights incorporated. Interesting developments were also seen in the rear of the vehicle, such as taillights, bumpers, exhaust outlets and the tailgate which makes it considerably change the look.

Laterally striking the recess of the wheel arches over the previous generation, thereby reducing some of its aggressiveness but the aesthetic result is satisfactory. This X6 offers a softer outline and, overall, offers a more dynamic look. However, it has lost some of that point of aggressiveness that made him unique in its kind. But the rebranding brings benefits to the aerodynamics of the vehicle, in which the German constructor has worked hard to reduce the drag coefficient from 0.35 to .32 Cx.

Efficient and technological

The X6 is a luxury SUV, powerful, stylish and sporty coupe that retains the basic personality traits that have been so well received to date. The unit tests available Coches.net propellant 2,993 cc diesel and six-cylinder that delivers maximum power of 258 hp at 4,000 rpm and maximum torque of 560 Nm between 1,500 and 3,000 rpm, registers that generate a truly remarkable performance.

This engine has an excellent ally in the automatic eight relations that helps moderate consumption taking into account its size and weight-and that during the test were 9.1 l / 100 km, a record more than adequate for a vehicle in its segment, although the official approved brand speaks 6 liters per 100 km.

Luxury interior quality

It's time to delve into the X6, where rapidly BMW intends to offer an arsenal of equipment, luxury and, of course, comfort is detected. According to the Bavarian brand, the space for the occupants of the new X6 is superior to that offered by the previous generation. True, but it's hardly noticeable differences to get into the vehicle.

Maintains excellent driving position with all regulations bench and steering column needed to obtain the desired driving position. Its front seats do offer spaciousness, something that does not include the rear, but have sufficient vertical clearance for people up to 1.85 m tall can travel in comfort without the head attached to the ceiling. Less appreciated is the access to these rear seats and the door opening angle has little strange not hit on it to go, if we are not vigilant enough.

Apart from these considerations, commenting that BMW has decided to dispense with the option of four seats and rear bench is designed so they can travel a total of three, although located in the central area does not have the same comfort as the rest of occupants.

The trunk is another space that evolves. It has 10 liters more capacity than the first generation model, now reaching a good 580 liters of usable volume. The possibility of folding seats -in three parts- offers an interesting note versatility and maximum load capacity can grow up to 1525 liters. The system of opening and closing of the trunk is automatic and can be completed with a practical option, called "Smart Open" allowing open or close by movement of the foot under the rear bumper.

Returning to the driving position, saying that the xDrive 30d has leather seats that offer excellent comfort and considerable lateral support, provided they do not perform a line "attack" on very twisty areas.

The dashboard is the digital display with all information, as is usual in the brand, can be managed optimally through the command "iDrive" button on the center console. Between the two front seats is a glove with two covers side opening which, in my opinion, are small and uncomfortable in their ability to access.

Many options

The X6 price is 75,300 euros. It is true that a very complete product, equipped with a sophisticated and efficient mechanics is offered, but is above some cars that can be considered as direct competition. The equipment is complete and in the security section has front airbags, front side and head for all -the rear side seats are also optional- of ABS with Cornering Brake Control, DSC stability control.

Also equipped with reversing camera, cameras 360º and parking sensors front and rear, which allow maneuvers safer. No missing xenon headlights, fog lights, electric mirrors and heated anti-glare, multifunction sport steering wheel, automatic opening tailgate, dual zone climate control, rain sensor lights and audio equipment.

The options list is long and prices soar the final cost of the vehicle substantially. Some of the most significant are the M Sports package incorporating various details as an aerodynamics package, 19-inch wheels, adaptive chassis, etc and it costs € 7,235.

Another option is found in the front that adds comfort, for example, memory function for the steering column, power-adjustable lumbar support for front seats and costs € 2,679 seating package. BMW also offers other possibilities such as Exterior Design Pure Extravagance, which is composed of aluminum stirrups, LED fog lights, alloy wheels 20 "-275 / 40 and 315/35 and body parts Cerium Grey color. This Package is priced at € 5,337.

You can also choose to package services ConnecteDrive € -830 - Professional Navigation Package € 3073. and options such as sound equipment Bang & Olufsen € 4,685 - paneling, BMW Individual metallic paint and etc.

Ways sports

The current is even better. But go to parties. The first stage of the event was running a fast highways, where the new X6 develops a great time and really shows like using the "Comfort" position.

With it, the vehicle occupants to enjoy exquisite running comfort, since the suspension absorbs any irregularity, preventing it to move inside the vehicle. If I had to put some hits, would put in some road sections depending on their state-in thereby driving the suspension was somewhat soft, especially as regards the front.

By leaving the motorway and introduce into narrower and tacking roads, was when I could enjoy the "Sport" which affects the direction, speed transitions of change, the response time of the accelerator position and the hardness of the suspension . In this case, everything is more immediate and direct, allowing to practice driving more and full of feelings "attacker". The changes are very palpable for the driver and the X6 becomes a vehicle capable of linking turns with an efficiency comparable to a sports sedan with a remarkable precision in the trajectories generated by its precise and direct steering and motor fantastic levels.

Just traveling at a very high rate, some perceived slight roll, normal in a vehicle with an unladen weight exceeding two tons. Good job done by the brakes, acting with the necessary power in all circumstances, although it is true that a very aggressive driving prolonged eventually provoke a certain "fatigue".

As much as we enjoy its benefits do almost like a sport, we must never forget the weight of this vehicle. Another of its strengths is active safety. The security system Driving Assistant (€ 771) includes cruise control with braking function that activates the brake system in some circumstances, warning of unintentional lane departure or a system operating at speeds up to 60 km / h and prevented or, alternatively, decreases the consequences of a powerful impact with a pedestrian or another vehicle.

Effective on tracks

The X6 is part of the luxury SUV designed to deliver the best road behavior. Driving away from the asphalt is not one of his priorities -and not designed for that effect- but xDrive allows travel on unpaved roads with a security dimension of fun and really high.

The good engine response with the use of the driving mode "Sport" -allows disconnect the traction-control he lets us enjoy funny if you desire-slip, of course, we must always be done in suitable places for that.

If we want to move calmly, incorporating control allow us to focus declines to follow the desired path without brake control dose. His qualities "off" leave us without any problem, overcome steep ramps, provided the ground have a minimum of adhesion. In more extreme situations, such as abundant clay, low profile tires and asfaltera philosophy, will curb our intentions. Another limitation is the free mountain ride height and angles of attack, ventral and output are inadequate to overcome broken roads and, of course, areas to clear obstacles.

Good choice

The X6 has been known to "update" in every way. Its latest generation engines and environmentally friendly -of its characteristics moderate consumption for its less "big one" aesthetic though still "huge" - and some excellent dynamic qualities.

If further breaks are common in skiing or circular areas of poor adherence, AWD and its powerful engine will give them that extra with which they will travel more safely. .Comfortable in town, Not much. Their large size makes the circulation of narrow streets, prevents parked in most although never hollow and there are many of rear visibility is reduced. Budget Not, of course, but a car full of technology, quality and luxury, that has a price....