Before BMW’s controversial giant kidney grilles became the norm, back in 2009, the outrageous X6 xDrive model was causing a stir in the automotive world. Closely related to its X5 stablemate, the first-generation BMW X6 xDrive (E71) was a cross between an SUV and a sports coupe.

The boffins at BMW had cleverly carved out a new niche with the unveiling of its new SUV, calling it the ‘Sports Activity Coupe’. The X6 was under the development of Peter Tuennermann, the model’s project leader at the time. Although the X6 had the beefy appearance of an off-roader, from the side it had the striking looks of a coupe. However, upon its launch at the 2008 North American International Auto Show, the X6 crossover was not to everyone’s taste. There was nothing like it at the time.

It is said, beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Well, the X6 was specifically targeted at people who wanted a sporty-looking exterior and the practicality of an SUV. Opinions of the SUV coupe have remained very much divided, primarily over its styling. Although, it’s interesting to note that since the inception of the first-generation BMW X6, many manufacturers have developed some form of SUV coupe of their own. Moreover, early criticisms of the BMW X6 have gradually faded and the SUV coupe has proved to be quite popular within its target market. This, no doubt, has been reflected in overall sales worldwide.

The first-generation BMW X6 was a very capable SUV with impressive performance and dynamics. What’s more, it handled like a sports car thanks to its stiffer suspension, yet with all-wheel drive, the luxury crossover had some off-roading ability. With a good selection of petrol and diesel engines to choose from, BMW, naturally, added an M version to the X6 line-up. The X6 M had monstrous performance and the ability to cover ground at a phenomenal pace.

Although the BMW X6 may only appeal to a specific target group, the prices of this SUV coupe are now within reach of many. Therefore, the first-generation X6 xDrive has become an affordable, luxury dual-purpose performance machine.

The 2009 BMW X6 xDrive Provides Brutal Performance

2009 BMW X6 xDrive
Via: Wikimedia Commons

The BMW X6 xDrive delivers enormous performance with a good selection of powerful petrol and diesel engines to choose from in the range. The petrol units include a 3-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six producing 306 hp and a 4.4 liter twin-turbocharged V8 with 408 hp. The inline-six model propels the BMW X6 to 60 mph in 6.5 seconds and has a top speed of 149 mph. What’s more, the ferocious V8 is just over a second quicker to 60 mph, with a top speed of 155 mph.

While petrol engines provide an abundance of power, diesel units are surprisingly frugal and usually favored. However, the diesel engines in the range are no slouches either, with a choice of single and twin-turbo units available in the X6 30d and X6 40d, respectively. In addition, BMW included a triple-turbocharged six-cylinder M50 diesel model pumping out 381 horsepower. It could catapult the SUV from 0-60 mph in a mere 5.3 seconds with a massive 740Nm of torque available.The BMW X6 M was a full-fat M car and came with a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged petrol V8. Moreover, it churns out 555 hp, with 60 mph arriving in only 4.7 seconds, making it an SUV hot rod.

In late 2009, BMW added a hybrid version to the X6 range called the ActiveHybrid, targeted primarily at the American market. It incorporated twin electric motors within the four-wheel-drive system, which improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. Indeed, the hybrid X6 had stunning performance, with 485 horses under its hood. It also came with a hefty price tag!

Although weighing over two tonnes, the first-generation BMW X6 had more than just outright acceleration to offer. It provided an engaging, sporty ride with impressive handling for its size. It’s true to say, the BMW X6 was never really targeted as a serious off-roader, nor will drivers venture off-road during their ownership. However, it shared many of its mechanicals with the BMW X5 and had a clever all-wheel-drive system, making the X6 a rapid cross-country machine.The BMW clever Adaptive Drive Systems helped to keep body roll to a minimum. Furthermore, sensational cornering was aided by the Dynamic Performance Control system, which sent power to the rear wheels with the most grip.

Design And Interior Of The '09 X6 xDrive

BMW X6 xDrive35d Cockpit
Via: Wikimedia Commons

BMW founded the SUV coupe genre with the development of the X6 model. Nevertheless, the appearance of the X6 continues to divide opinions today. However, its X5 looks harbored a more aggressive personality underneath. Indeed, the descending roofline accentuates its sportier intentions. It’s true to say the BMW X6 no longer has an identity problem as the car market is awash with SUVs of all sizes. The styling of the brawny X6 is distinctive and stands out from the crowd. Moreover, the aesthetics are very well matched to its power and give the car an intimidating presence on the road. The X6 is also much wider than its BMW sibling, the X5. However, behind the somewhat controversial design lies a well-built machine.

The cabin of the X6 is typical BMW with a great ambiance and the use of high-quality materials. As expected, the BMW X6 comes well equipped with a full range of safety features, including airbags and driver aids. The commanding driving position is comfortable with good ergonomics. The BMW infotainment system is also easy to navigate.

However, the large dimensions of the car disguise the fact that it can only accommodate four occupants. While there’s no short of space at the front of the X6, the rear headroom is, unsurprisingly, compromised for taller passengers due to the sloping roofline. Moreover, the rear seats can fold flat to provide a spacious cargo space, although not as cavernous as the X5.

The 2009 BMW X6 xDrive Gives You Great Value For Money

BMW X6 xDrive Interior
Via: AutoTrade

Love it or loath it, the first generation X6 xDrive is no longer deemed a novelty SUV coupe. Indeed, brand loyalty and driving pleasure associated with the BMW marque has helped the X6 become popular within its genre.

The X6 was by no means cheap. In 2009, the cost of an X6 xDrive 35i was approximately $57,000 new. The V8-powered X6 xDrive 50i started at $67,500 new, with the high-performance X6 M and ActiveHybrid close to $90,000! However, the first-generation X6 now presents itself as an affordable luxury crossover with excellent driving dynamics and lots of equipment. According to reports, the price of an X6 30d starts from $12,500, with the base V8 starting at $18,500. Overall, the powerful diesel models provide the most sensible option as fuel efficiency is paramount.

Styling aside, the first generation BMW X6 remains a highly capable performance machine.