A moving contradiction—albeit a very fast-moving one—the X6 M delivers a modicum of functionality with immense performance. Power comes from a twin-turbo 4.4-liter V-8 producing 567 hp, delivered to BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system through an eight-speed automatic transmission. Practicality is a relative term here, but the performance-tuned suspension assures that the X6 M goes fast in more than just a straight line. The X6 M cloaks its heft in the corners welNo argument can be brokered that we do not live in an automotive enthusiast’s gilded age, where even big SUVs can be ordered track-ready from the factory, boasting performance numbers on par with exceptional sports cars like Porsche 911s and Chevrolet Corvettes. We’ve already forgotten what the world was like before 5200-pound utilities delivered sub-four-second zero-to-60-mph times. Because yes, that’s another barrier broken in this decade of ridiculously escalating horsepower, thanks to BMW’s M-badged SUVs.
In developing a successor to the original X6 M, BMW clearly was focused on the numbers, which are downright amazing. For starters there’s that 60-mph sprint, which takes just 3.7 seconds. Or put the X6 M on a drag strip where it will run the quarter-mile in 12.1 seconds at 115 mph. Both outpace the Mercedes-AMG GLE63 S coupe, the X6 M’s new archrival. It takes the X6 M a tick or two for its twin turbochargers to start force-feeding all 4.4 liters of V-8, but once they do, the 567 peak horsepower pushes you back in the seat like an NFL running back’s stiff-arm. The new eight-speed automatic clil, making it one amusing ute.cks through the gears until the X6 M reaches a governed top speed of 160 mph.