BMW lobs new X6 pricing

BMW Group Australia has announced pricing and specification for its third-generation X6 large coupe-style SUV, which is set to arrive in local showrooms in the fourth quarter priced from $121,900 plus on-roads.

At launch, the range will consist of three variants, starting with the 3.0-litre turbo-diesel 30d, up to the petrol-powered 40i at $124,900, and topping out at the twin-turbo V8-powered, M-fettled M50i, which checks in from $155,900.

As such, the X6 is priced $4000 above its mechanically related X5 sibling.

Styling of the new X6 remains similar to the X5, while the sporty nature of the X6 is enhanced by the standard fitment of the M Sport package, which includes a bodykit and stronger M Sport brakes.

Optionally available is the new ‘Iconic Glow’ front grille, which helps BMW’s signature kidney grille further stand out with an illuminating function.

Exterior dimensions have grown in all directions except height, creating a lower centre of gravity and greater handling, while the increase in size has led to improved cargo capacity, up 30 litres to 580L.

Stowing the 40/20/40 split-fold rear seats increases volume up to 1530L.

All versions feature BMW’s Live Cockpit Professional, which bundles a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster paired with a 12.3-inch touchscreen projecting BMW’s latest operating system.

The 30d’s 3.0-litre turbo-diesel inline six-cylinder engine is tuned to produce 195kW/620Nm, and is  mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission that enables a zero-to-100km/h sprint time of 6.5 seconds.

Standard equipment in the 30d includes 20-inch bi-colour M light alloy wheels, Vernasca leather upholstery, aluminium interior trim, a panoramic glass sunroof, ambient interior lighting, a head-up display, adaptive M suspension, 2.5-zone automatic air-conditioning, adaptive LED headlights with high-beam assist, Comfort Access, wireless phone charging, DAB+ digital radio, Driving Assistant Professional, and Parking Assistant Plus with surround-view cameras and reversing assistant.

The 40i also uses a 3.0-litre inline-six turbo engine and eight-speed auto but with petrol power, pumping out 250kW/450Nm and allowing for a landmark sprint time of 5.5 seconds. Its specification mirrors that of the 30d.

Lastly, the M50i brings V8 power to the table, in the form of a twin-turbo 4.4-litre petrol engine that pumps out 390kW/750Nm, making for a 4.3-second zero-to-100km/h sprint.

Along with the extra horses, opting for the M50i adds a number of extra features such as 22-inch light alloy wheels, adaptive M suspension Professional, rear-axle steering, BMW LaserLight headlights, a leather-trimmed instrument panel, soft-close doors, heated cupholders, lumbar support, four-zone climate control, a Harman/Kardon sound system and metallic paint.

Three option packs are available, starting with the Indulgence package which bundles soft-close doors, front comfort seats with ventilation and massaging functionality, front and rear seat heating, and BMW CraftedClarity glass trim.

The Indulgence package costs $7800 for the 30d and 40i, and $6600 for M50i owners due to soft-close doors already being standard.

Next up, the $5000 Iconic package available on the 30d and 40i includes 22-inch light alloy wheels, metallic paint and the ‘Iconic Glow’ grille illumination.

Lastly and also exclusive to the 30d and 40i, the xOffroad package adds an offroad-specific drive mode, adaptive two-axle air suspension and a BMW Display Key for $7500.

Also, all versions can be fitted with a towing kit that features an integrated hitch receiver, control unit and wiring harness for $2500, enabling a braked towing capacity of 3500kg.

A separate kit bundles a tongue, a ball, a bracket, D shackles, a wiring loom and a flat plug for $700.

Fans can also expect a range-topping, full-fat X6 M variant to arrive at some point.

BMW Australia CEO Vikram Pawah said the new X6 was a significant step up from the previous-generation version.

“This isn’t simply a mild makeover of a vehicle rightly recognised as ‘the beast’,” he said.

“We have raised the bar several notches for the new, third-generation BMW X6, making it lower, wider and even more muscular than before.

“It combines that brawn with additional capability, versatility and the latest technology to provide customers with a highly compelling, multi-talented proposition.”

2019 BMW X6 pricing*

*Excludes on-road costs