2009 BMW X6
Sports-Activity-Coupe
I know what you're thinking, what in the world is a "sports-activity-coupe?" While at first glance, the idea of a "sports-activity-coupe" seems unneeded in todays already highly varied market, upon further inspection, the 2009 BMW X6 presents a surprising and appealing array of features. These features, because they are being showcased in a model that may or may not see long term success in the BMW line, are the cutting edge of BMW technology. Think of the X6 as a concept car that made it to market. And we all know how cool those concept cars are.
Under The Hood
The 2009 X6 comes in two variants, the xDrive35i and its big brother the xDrive50i. The 35i is powered by BMW's reliable 3.0 liter, twin turbo six cylinder engine and the 50i features an incredibly powerful 4.4 liter twin turbo V8, a powerhouse that pumps out an incredible 400 horsepower and 450 foot pounds of torque. Both of these models are equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission, controlled by paddle shifters, and also features BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system.
The New Stuff
The 2009 X6 is BMW's launch platform for their new Dynamic Performance Control. The system is designed to work in concert with the other power and chassis systems present on the X6 and distributes power between the two rear wheels. By sensing the power needs of the wheels and dynamically adjusting that power to suit the conditions of the road, even when there is no throttle input. This system has definite potential, so don't be surprised to see it featured on other BMW models in the coming years.
The Interior
The interior of the X6 is what you'd expect from a BMW with navigation, power seats, numerous leather options, power tailgate, and a rear entertainment system. And, lest you forget the "sports" part of sports-activity-coupe, there are sporty bucket seats in the front that have kneepads on either side of the center console designed to prevent knee discomfort during tight cornering. One of the few concerns is that the contoured roof design compromises the headroom in the back seat.
Time will tell whether or not the X6 will prove successful in the marketplace, but it is likely to appeal to people who want to go fast, take some tight corners, and still have enough room in the back for the groceries.