The BMW X6 is a mid-size luxury crossover SUV by German automaker BMW. The BMW X6 is the originator of the sports activity coupé (SAC), referencing its sloping rear roof design. It combines the attributes of an SUV (high ground clearance, all-wheel drive and all-weather ability, large wheels and tires) with the stance of a coupé (styling featuring a sloping roof). It is built in BMW's North American plant in Greer, South Carolina alongside the BMW X5, whose platform it shares. Prior to the release of the X7, the X6 was considered a flagship SUV for BMW.
The first generation (E71) was released for sale in April 2008 for the 2008 model year, while the second-generation X6 (F16) was launched at the Paris Motor Show in 2014. The third-generation X6 was revealed in July 2019.
BMW Concept X6 (2007)
The concept model debuted at the 2007 Frankfurt Auto Show and the production X6 officially debuted at the 2008 North American International Auto Show in Detroit and Montreal International Auto Show. While slightly longer and wider than the X5, it is significantly lower and seated initially only four, and since 2011, optionally five.[1]
First generation (E71; 2007)
E71 development began in 2003 under Peter Tuennermann, after start of E70 X5 development in 2001. Design work by E70 X5 designer Pierre Leclercq was frozen in 2005, with test mules being run from the summer of 2005 and prototypes being tested from late 2006. Production began on December 3, 2007.[6]
The X6 marks BMW's first use of its new Dynamic Performance Control system, which works in unison with xDrive all-wheel drive, both being standard on the X6. DPC is a drivetrain and chassis control system that works to regulate traction and especially correct over- and understeer by actively spreading out drive forces across the rear axle. Torque is distributed not only between the front and rear wheels (xDrive) but also from side to side at the rear, for improved agility and added stability (through the DPC rear axle).[7] This lateral distribution of torque is commonly known as torque vectoring.
The DPC differential features clutch packs on both output sides that are actuated by an electric motor. The clutch pack activates a planetary gearset which causes one wheel to be overdriven. A conventional control system will use the brakes to reduce the speed of the faster moving wheel (which is the one with less traction) and reduce engine power.
Second generation (F16; 2014)
The second generation X6 was launched at the 2014 Paris Motor Show featuring a new eight-speed automatic transmission and a slightly larger luggage bay.[28] Sales in most markets commenced by the end of 2014.
Like the other models in the BMW range powered by the twin-turbo 4.4-litre V-8, the xDrive50i benefits from increased the power of a newer engine, which is 50 hp and 30 lbft more than its predecessor rising to 445 hp at 5500 rpm and 480 lbft of torque at 2000 rpm.[29]
The X6 M (F86) BMW M performance model was unveiled in Losail International Circuit in Qatar,[30] and is one of the quickest vehicles of its type.[31]
M Performance Parts can be fitted to 25-50 models with the M Sport trim. These include a sport steering wheel, carbon fibre trim, aluminium pedals, black kidney grilles, M Rims, mirrors, rear flaps, diffuser, splitter, spoiler in carbon fibre, black side skirts and sport brakes.
Third generation (G06; 2019)
The third-generation X6 was unveiled on 3 July 2019 and sports more aggressive bodywork including a more angular grille which can be illuminated as an option for the first time on a BMW.[38] An M50i performance model is also new, replacing the xDrive50i model. The headlights mirror those on the X5, but the bumper designs and taillights are unique to the X6. Inside, a panoramic roof is standard, and 83 percent larger than the previous X6's. Sales began in November 2019.[39] The X6 M (F96) and X6 M Competition performance models were revealed on 1 October 2019.[40]
Development and launch
The G06 X6 is based on the CLAR platform and features a double wishbone front suspension and five-link rear suspension.[41] Compared to its predecessor, it is 26 mm longer, 15 mm wider, and 6 mm lower.
Production and sales
See also
External links
References
- 2011 BMW X6 (XDRIVE35I, XDRIVE50I) leftlanenews, 2010-08-11, retrieved 11 April 2015^
- Factory Milestones – BMW US Factory bmwusfactory.com, retrieved 2015-04-12^
- Группа компаний Автотор :: Автомобили BMW Avtotor.ru, retrieved 2010-10-03^