2019 BMW X6 Review

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BMW X6 model years

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Edmunds' Expert Review

byJames Riswick^{Edmunds Contributor
James Riswick is an automotive journalist at Edmunds.}

Pros

Engines provide strong acceleration
Comfortable and quiet ride
Quality interior with comfortable front seats

Cons

Sloping roofline cuts down cargo space
Hard to see out the back
Limited rear headroom

What's new

More advanced driver safety aids are now standard
Apple CarPlay is now standard (subscription-based)
Part of the second X6 generation introduced for 2015

The 2019 BMW X6 may be called a "coupe" by its makers' marketing wizards, but it's really a five-passenger midsize SUV with the boxy bit at the back chopped off. The resulting fastback-style SUV isn't as useful as a regular midsize SUV or as genuinely sporty as a fastback-style luxury sedan (of which there are now many). Frankly, the X6's compromised nature has never made rational sense to us, going all the way back to the first-generation model introduced more than a decade ago.

Cost to Drive^{Cost to drive estimates for the 2019 BMW X6 sDrive35i 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $4.45 per gallon for premium unleaded in Ohio.}

Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio

$269/mo

$201/mo

Avg. Midsize SUV

Calculate my fuel costs

And yet, not only has the X6 survived into a second generation, it has spawned a number of copycat competitors. Apparently, there are plenty of folks who are perfectly OK with its practical drawbacks. If that describes you, know that the X6 at least excels in its peculiar niche. It's well-engineered, suitably luxurious and blessed with sensational engines. There's also more standard equipment this year. BMW has made last year's Active Driving Assistant package, which included safety features such as forward collision mitigation and blind-spot monitoring, standard for all X6s.

Of course, you're paying a pretty penny for the X6, so perhaps lots of features should be expected. You're also paying more than a comparably equipped (and more practical) BMW X5, which has been completely redesigned for 2019. The X6 soldiers on using the previous X5's bones for at least another year. That may ultimately mean more to you than the X6's inherent compromises.

Edmunds' Expert Rating

6.9 / 10

Trim tested

Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions that are fundamentally similar. The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the BMW X6 xDrive35i (turbo 3.0L inline-6 | 8-speed automatic | AWD).

NOTE: Since this test was conducted in 2015, the current X6 has only changed in regards to features availability. Our findings remain broadly applicable to this year's X6.

Scorecard

Overall	6.9 / 10
Driving	7.0
Comfort	8.5
Interior	6.0
Utility	6.5

Driving

7.0

Engine and transmission performance are big positives for the X6. It's pretty quick for the class, and the engine and transmission are smooth operators. Unfortunately, the steering communicates little back to the driver.

Acceleration

8.0

Smooth shifts and a strong-performing engine are what you get with the xDrive35i. In our testing, it covered 0-60 mph in a quick 5.8 seconds.

Braking

8.5

The brakes felt good around town, with linear action requiring minimal force to engage. They're plenty capable of stopping this hefty SUV. In our simulated-panic stop, the X6 needed just 108 feet from 60 mph, but there was some minor pedal fade after repeated stops.

Steering

5.5

The X6 goes where you point it, yes, but there's minimal communication to the steering wheel of what the front tires are up to. The effort is too light in Comfort mode, better in Sport. It can feel numb just off-center.

Handling

6.0

The X6 drives like an SUV. Its height limits some connection between driver and road. Body roll is acceptable. Lots of grip from the summer-rated tires. The Sport suspension mode tightens things up considerably.

Drivability

7.0

The automatic engine stop-start requires a change in driving style to perfect smooth acceleration from a stoplight. With this feature disengaged, though, the X6 is easy to drive.

Off-road

7.0

All-wheel drive and 8.3 inches of ground clearance give this BMW some off-road capability. It can handle gravel and fire roads but isn't designed to venture much deeper off the path than that.

Comfort

8.5

This is an area where the X6 does it right. Ride quality is good for a performance SUV. The adjustable suspension absorbs imperfections of varying sizes with ease. The cabin is very quiet. Seat comfort is excellent up front and acceptable in the rear.

Seat comfort

8.5

The front seats are firm yet supportive and quite comfy for the long haul. Thigh support could be better. The rear seats are flat and a bit vertical, though they are acceptably comfortable. The armrests are reasonably soft for all seating positions.

Ride comfort

8.0

The X6 does an excellent job soaking up bumps, be they large or small, especially when the suspension is in the Comfort setting. The ride is noticeably firmer and less forgiving in Sport mode.

Noise & vibration

9.0

Interior noise is held to a minimum almost regardless of surface. One exception is the exhaust bark on full-throttle upshifts, but we rather enjoy that. It's just enough to remind you of the turbocharged six-cylinder under the hood.

Interior

6.0

Interior space suffers because of the X6's stylized exterior. The sloping roof limits headroom and rear-seat access. Rearward blind spots are also prominent. Cargo and storage space are merely average, and the rear seatbacks do not fold completely flat.

Ease of use

7.0

The centrally located iDrive controller resides at the driver's fingertips. The climate control layout is functional but has too many buttons.

Getting in/getting out

5.5

Front-seat access benefits from the X6's height and a wide-opening door. Rear-seat entry is an exercise in flexibility. The door does not open far enough, the opening is too sloped at the roof, and the wheel hump is a hip bruiser.

Roominess

6.5

Most drivers up to 6 feet tall will find plenty of headroom up front. Elbows and knees will be similarly comfy. The back seat offers suitable legroom for adults, but the seat is lower than in an X5 and the roof design limits headroom for taller passengers.

Visibility

5.5

Forward views benefit from lots of glass and the tall ride height. Over-the-shoulder views are limited significantly by thick rear pillars, and the rear window is small.

Quality

9.0

Build quality is excellent inside and out with no squeaks or rattles. Interior surfaces are soft-touch where they ought to be. The leather is of high quality.

Utility

6.5

The rear hatch opening is low. The smallish cargo area is aided by underfloor storage. The rear bench seat folds 40/20/40 but not fully flat. The door pockets are usefully large, but the door bottle holders are angled dramatically.

Technology

The X6 has BMW's iDrive interface, which has touchscreen functionality (though the screen is smaller than the X5's) in addition to the console-mounted knob. Apple CarPlay is included but only as a one-year subscription.

2019 BMW X6 models

The 2019 BMW X6 is a five-passenger midsize SUV with a steeply raked tailgate. That earns it the name "coupe" in BMW's book. There are three main configurations, plus the high-performance X6 M that we review separately. The X6 sDrive35i has a turbocharged six-cylinder engine (300 horsepower, 300 pound-feet of torque) and rear-wheel drive. The xDrive35i has the same engine and equipment but gains all-wheel drive. The all-wheel-drive xDrive50i has a turbocharged V8 (445 hp, 480 lb-ft).

Standard equipment for the most basic 35i versions (BMW attaches the name xLine Design to them) includes 19-inch wheels, adaptive xenon headlights, LED foglights, power-folding mirrors, automatic wipers, a sunroof, a power liftgate, front and rear parking sensors, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, power-adjustable and heated front seats, driver-seat memory settings, a power-adjustable steering wheel, and a 40/20/40-split folding rear seat. For 2019, you also get blind-spot and rear cross-traffic warning systems, forward collision warning, low-speed automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warning as standard.

Infotainment equipment includes BMW's iDrive interface (a 10.2-inch touchscreen and center console controller), integrated navigation, BMW ConnectedDrive services (including BMW Assist emergency communications) and integrated smartphone apps, and a nine-speaker sound system with a CD player and HD radio. Apple CarPlay is included as well, but only for a year as part of a free trial subscription that must be re-upped.

Stepping up to the xDrive50i gets you the V8 engine, keyless ignition and entry, four-zone automatic climate control, upgraded front seats, upgraded leather upholstery, satellite radio, and a 16-speaker Harman Kardon surround-sound audio system.

Except for the V8 engine, all of these features are optionally available for the 35i models.

Both 35i and 50i models can be equipped with optional packages (BMW also calls these "Tiers"). The Premium Tier adds surround-view parking cameras, a head-up display, an automated parking system, enhanced USB and Bluetooth system, a Wi-Fi hotspot and wireless smartphone charging. The Executive Tier adds LED headlights, automatic high beams, rear window shades, and soft-close automatic doors.

The Dynamic Handling package includes adaptive suspension dampers with a rear air suspension and active roll stabilization. The Driving Assistance Plus package adds adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality. An M Sport package gives the X6 sportier-looking bodywork and special interior trim.

Many stand-alone options are also included either in the 50i or the Tiers. However, there's also a heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, a space-saver spare tire, a night-vision system, a Bang & Olufsen sound system, and a rear-seat entertainment system.

Reliability Ratings by RepairPal

2.5/5Average

#11 out of 20 among Luxury Fullsize SUVs

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.

Cost

^{The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of the BMW X6 from 2008-2022.}

$769/yr

vs. $735/yr
for Average Luxury Fullsize SUV

Frequency

^{The average number of times this model is brought into the shop for unscheduled repairs and maintenance in a single year. RepairPal calculates this metric by tracking millions of unique vehicles over multiple years to determine an average number of visits per year (omitting small routine visits, e.g., oil changes).}

1.81x/yr

vs. 1.83x/yr
for Average Luxury Fullsize SUV

Severity

^{The probability that a repair will be a major issue, meaning the repair costs 3x the average annual repair cost for all models. This threshold will be higher for vehicles that have higher labor rates and parts costs (such as a premium brand).}

18.6%

vs. 16.5%
for Average Luxury Fullsize SUV

powered by RepairPal ^{Based on RepairPal reliability data as of 8/23/2023. Ratings are provided by RepairPal and Edmunds is not responsible for their accuracy.}

Consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the Used 2019 BMW X6.

5 (76%)

4 (20%)

3 (0%)

2 (0%)

1 (4%)

4.6

25 reviews

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Most helpful consumer reviews

You have to live with it to really know...

Str8line, 01/19/2016

2016 BMW X6 xDrive35i 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)

I'm a wagon guy. A utility guy. A lover of great handling, powerful cars. I spend my money on cars. To me the ultimate car for the money is a GTI, or maybe a truck if you want the ultimate in utility. But let's say you can afford to splurge on a luxury car... why would you get an X6? Well, first off I have a truck. And a sports car(911). And a wagon(BMW 530). But the wagon is getting … older and it was time for a replacement. So naturally I got the X6M as the ultimate wagon. That was a little over a year ago and when it was time to get rid of my wife's third row SUV(Mercedes GL550) for something smaller she decided on... another X6! This time the six cylinder X35i. I was surprised. But this is a surprising vehicle. Don't believe what they say about its storage space, there is a ton, trust me. Like fill up two shopping carts at Costco and fold down the rear seats and watch the X6 swallow it all, space. Which brings me to the X5's cargo space. This is the same car as the X5, just without the tall rear, so in the x5 you really only gain the space above the cargo area where you would stack stuff, and then you can't see out the back window. If you have one vehicle that extra space in the x5 might be important, but if you have a truck or don't usually buy big items you won't miss it. As I said the X6 has a LOT of space in its own right. Also, don't believe what they say about the rear seat room. I'm 6ft. tall and there is three inches of room above my head, and a large amount of legroom. The back seat is actually much more comfortable than the X5's which feels a little like a bench. Now for the good stuff... The X6 is an incredibly fun vehicle to drive. I have a 911. I have an X6M. I know fun. The 35i is a potent engine with great throttle response and a sublime transmission. The suspension is firm, never harsh and entices you to drive this thing like a race car. The brakes are stout. The steering is not 911 or X6M great but it's pretty good and the really the only thing drive-wise they could improve in my opinion. The steering is too light but if you're not jumping out of a 911 or X6M or GTI or BRZ you might not realize that it's not perfect. Want to go off-road? I drove an X3 through the off-road course at the BMW plant in South Carolina and trust me you can do a lot with the x-series BMW's. I go to Moab. I drive Jeeps on their gnarly routes. The X6 won't do that but don't underestimate its abilities off-road, it is very impressive. And the interior, oh my the interior. Wow, wow, wow. Gorgeous. Quality. Comfort. Perfection. The exterior? Well I like it. I don't love it like the 911 exterior, or a Ferrari. But it is different and there is something about this car that makes you take notice. I think it's cool, if a bit quirky. As I said, you really have to live with this vehicle to realize how great it is. One pleasant surprise has been our MPG with the X6. We are averaging over 20MPG in mixed driving with lots of hills. Our old diesel Mercedes GL averaged 20 and we thought that was great. 20MPG for this sporty, gas vehicle is super impressive and I have heard of people getting over 30 MPG on the highway. So if you are looking for a versatile vehicle that drives fantastic and provides a lot of utility while being stylish and different check out the X6.

2016 BMW X6 xDrive 35i Carbon Black Metallic

CD, 05/08/2017

2016 BMW X6 xDrive35i 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)

After owning and driving this car for almost one year here is my take on it. First let me say that I was sold on this car before the salesman pulled over to let me drive it purely based on how comfortable the upgraded seats were and how powerful it felt on the road. Quiet, powerful, and a very smooth acceleration. The 5.0 or M version is tempting, but really not necessary for me because …

Love my X6

Lyn381, 06/07/2018

2018 BMW X6 xDrive35i 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)

Bought a 2018 CPO. Traded 2015 X5. This car is fun if you don't need to haul people or things. Acceleration is great, I love leaving drivers at the light. Sport drive turns the odometer area red. This car can go. I get a lot of stares and compliments. Best vehicle I have ever owned!!

This car over delivered

Peter Bordeaux, 08/24/2016

2016 BMW X6 xDrive35i 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)

We have owned (4) prior BMWs (1 325IS and (3) Z4s) the latest was a 2013 Z4. Loved the roadsters but needed something more practical yet sporty. The 2016 X6 was the ticket. We looked closely at the X4 but it was an odd size and would no meet our needs. The X6 has plenty of headroom, front and rear seats. It rides exceptionally well and is incredibly smooth. It is very agile for its …

We have a limited number of reviews for the 2019 BMW X6, so we've included reviews for other years of the X6 since its last redesign.

See all 25 reviews of the BMW X6

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2019 X6 Highlights

Trim:

sDrive35i

Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee	$63,550
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	20 MPG
Cost to Drive	$269/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	26.6 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	rear wheel drive
Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles

See all features & specs

Safety

Our experts like the X6 models:

Speed Limit Information: Lets drivers know the speed limit by using a camera to register the posted limit and displaying that data on the instrument panel.
Active Blind-Spot Detection: Warns drivers when there are vehicles or objects in the blind spots.
Active Driving Assistant: Helps prevent collisions by detecting and warning the driver about an imminent forward collision.

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2019 BMW X6 Review

Edmunds' Expert Review

Pros

Cons

What's new

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2019 BMW X6 sDrive35i 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $4.45 per gallon for premium unleaded in Ohio.

Edmunds' Expert Rating

Trim tested

Scorecard

Driving

Acceleration

Braking

Steering

Handling

Drivability

Off-road

Comfort

Seat comfort

Ride comfort

Noise & vibration

Interior

Ease of use

Getting in/getting out

Roominess

Visibility

Quality

Utility

Technology

Which X6 does Edmunds recommend?

2019 BMW X6 models

Reliability Ratings by RepairPal

Cost

Frequency

Severity

Most helpful consumer reviews

You have to live with it to really know...

2016 BMW X6 xDrive 35i Carbon Black Metallic

Love my X6

This car over delivered

2019 X6 Highlights

Safety

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Cost to Drive^{Cost to drive estimates for the 2019 BMW X6 sDrive35i 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $4.45 per gallon for premium unleaded in Ohio.}