2009 BMW X6 Road Test Ratings

At some $8,000 more expensive than a similarly equipped X5, BMW's X6 is a well-done exercise of image over substance.

The BMW X6 is available with two turbocharged engines, a 400-horsepower, 4.4-liter V8 and BMW's now-famous 3.0-liter 300-horsepower inline-6 cylinder. Both are exceptional engines and both are hooked up to a six-speed automatic transmission with adaptive control and manual modes. The X6 is only available with BMW's Xdrive all-wheel-drive system.

While similarly sized to the X5, the X6 only has seating for four. Access to the rear seats is limited as is legroom. Front seats are easy to get into/out of and offer plenty of space for even the largest driver. Ride comfort is compromised in the X6 to enable the performance handling that BMW is known for. Road noise and wind noise are well controlled.

Adaptive xenon headlights are bright and clear a wide path. Can sometimes be "twitchy" if steering inputs are too quick. Thanks to the sloping rear hatch, cargo space is inadequate for a vehicle this large. With the rear seats folded flat, cargo room is acceptable while passenger volume has been reduced to only two. Function wasn't a word high on BMW's list of priorities for the X6.

BMW calls this full-size four-seat SUV a sports activity coupe. Whatever it's called the BMW X6 is poised to create a new genre. The design, however, is typical for current flame-surfaced BMWs. Interior pieces are pulled directly from the X5 and that's a good thing. Alignment is excellent as is materials quality and tactile feel.