As controversial as it may be, the X6 series not only has its following within BMW circles, but it has also proven to be successful enough that, fellow premium carmakers Audi, Land Rover and Mercedes-Benz, have plans to introduce similar vehicles into the market over the next few years.
BMW will respond to the newcomers with a second generation X6, at the top end of which will be a successor to the X6M.
Based on the mechanics and the lighter platform of the already available third generation X5, the new X6 will adopt a sharper and less bloated appearance than the current model, with the styling heavily inspired from the smaller X4, due for release this year, all while keeping a similar footprint to today’s X6.
The M version of the series that we spied here testing in Northern Europe alongside the upcoming X5M, will come with a more aggressive look, thanks to the enlarged wheel arches housing bigger and beefier wheels and tires and the usual “M” division aero mods including a rear diffuser flanked on either side by twin pipes.
As with the X6 series in general, the X6M will benefit from the same weight reduction as the new X5, while in regards to the powertrain, it is believed that an eight-cylinder turbocharged engine, possibly producing more than the current model’s 555PS (547hp), and linked to all-wheel drive system, will continue to provide motivation.
Whether BMW will also stick to an automatic transmission (perhaps an eight-speed unit instead of the current 6-speed auto), or if it will offer the X6M with a dual-clutch unit, remains unknown at this time.
Photo Credits: CarPix for CarScoopS
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