2023 BMW X6 M Review

The oddly shaped BMW X6 M's twin-turbo V-8 generates a brutal 600 horsepower, which is channeled through an all-wheel-drive drivetrain that is biased toward the back. Moving this mountain of M-power is a posh event because of the interior's sophisticated, high-tech design, lavish standard amenities, and almost flawless fit and finish. BMW cranks up the volume on its thrilling mid-size luxury SUV with an optional Competition package that adds 17 horsepower, a rowdy M Sport exhaust, and sport seats. The X6 M's sticky performance summer tires and stiffly-sprung chassis create a harsher ride than the standard X6. Similar to the X6 M, other SUVs emphasize style over maximum rear storage space, including the Porsche Cayenne Coupe and Mercedes-AMG GLE-class.

Modifications for 2023

The X6 M receives no significant updates from BMW for 2023.

Which Trim To Purchase?

It's difficult to understand how something with less utility could cost more. However, the 2023 X6 M is more expensive than its X5 M squareback cousin. Although we like the cheaper body style better, the X6 definitely gets more notice. Whatever the case, the Competition bundle is essential. It not only has 617 horsepower, which is 17 more than usual, but it also has superior standard equipment. This has a 22-inch rear tire, an exclusive Track mode, and a sport-tuned exhaust. (versus 21-inchers). To lessen damage during heavy cornering, the Competition option also includes knee padding on the center console and fancier leather upholstery.

Power & Performance

The 4.4-liter twin-turbo V-8 that powers the BMW M5 sedan's raucous motor also powers the X6 M. When equipped with the Competition option, it produces 617 horsepower in addition to its standard 600 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission that powers a dynamic all-wheel-drive system is connected to the engine. For optimal traction, this drivetrain can be instructed to send power to all four wheels, or it can be told to send most of it to the rear wheels for sharper handling. The X6 M offers customizable brake-pedal feedback in addition to its selectable drive modes, which include options that can be triggered via buttons mounted on the steering wheel. A set of 21-inch wheels and adaptive dampers are also standard on the BMW, but 22-inch wheels can be added to the rear (they're standard on the X6 M Competition). The X6 M Competition has staggering cornering traction, lightning-fast acceleration, and powerful, fade-free brakes. On level roads, it travels smoothly and steadily, but its big wheels and stiff springs make it rockier.

Fuel Economy

The city and freeway mileage ratings for the X6 M are 13 and 18, respectively. These scores match those of the X5 M exactly. We are unable to assess either Bimmer's real-world efficiency because we were unable to test them on our 75 mph highway fuel-economy route as part of our comprehensive testing program.

Interior & Comfort

Inside the X6 M, which has standard leather upholstery and carbon-fiber details, sportiness and luxury converge. An enormous head-up display and a 12.3-inch completely digital gauge cluster add to the abundance of high-tech features. Along with those, there are comforts like ambient internal illumination, heated and cooled front seats with massage functions, heated rear seats, and more. A handy center-console bin and a coverable bin beneath the center stack stand out among the interior cubby storage options. Although the comfort of the front and back seats is unaffected by its coupe-like profile, the sloping roofline does lessen rear vision and cargo room. The conventional X5 M offers 34 cubic feet of space behind the rear row, whereas the X6 M only has 27.

Infotainment

The X6 M's big 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system is located in the middle of the dashboard. It makes use of the most recent version of BMW's iDrive system and can be controlled with hand gestures, vocal commands, and a rotary controller mounted on the central console. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Harman/Kardon sound system are the notable standard amenities. Looking for an audio system with even more power? For an additional cost, a Bowers & Wilkins system is available.

Safety

Numerous driver-assistance features, including rear cross-traffic alert and blind-spot tracking, are available on every X6 M. Visit the websites of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) for more details regarding the BMW's crash test findings. Important safety elements include:

Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking

Standard lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist

Available adaptive cruise control and stop-and-go technology

Warranty & Coverage For Maintenance

The limited and engine warranties offered by BMW are the same as those offered by Audi and Mercedes-Benz. In comparison to both brands, it offers superior complimentary scheduled maintenance, but it still falls short of Jaguar's coverage.

Limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles

Powertrain warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles

Complimentary maintenance is covered for three years or 36,000 miles

Competitive Cars

BMW X6 M vs BMW X6

Both of these exhilarating luxury SAVs feature sloping rooflines that scream aggressiveness and agility. The 2023 BMW X6 has beautiful illuminated kidney grille as an option in addition to regular 20" V-Spoke wheels, chrome exhaust tips, and other features. The X6 M comes standard with 21" M Double-Spoke, bi-color alloys, M Quad tailpipes, a M rear spoiler, and the M Sport exhaust system, which gives your car an exhilarating full-throated roar. While the standard panoramic moonroof is available on both SAVs, the X6 is the only one that offers the larger panoramic Sky Lounge LED roof for a more open sensation. The passenger volume for the X6 and X6 M is the same, with 35.7 inches of back legroom and 40.7 inches of front legroom.

BMW X6 M vs Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe

The two engines are comparable, and both have turbocharged power, but the GLE Coupe is simply too powerful for the X6. Both in terms of specifications and practical efficiency, the GLE Coupe has an edge thanks to a more advanced transmission system. The GLE Coupe and X6 both have a 3.0L twin-turbo V6 motor under the hood. Despite having identical engine specifications, the GLE uses AMG technology to increase horsepower and torque by 94 and 53 lb-ft, respectively. Both SUVs come standard with automatic transmissions, but the GLE Coupe has a nine-speed 9G-TRONIC for a smoother shifting experience, while the BMW X6 has an eight-speed setup. AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive is one of the most technologically advanced AWD systems available today from Mercedes-Benz. This technology improves handling and acceleration to the very edge of physical possibility using electromechanical coupling. 13 speakers, including two FrontBass subwoofers, and a 590-watt 9-channel digital amplifier make up the Mercedes-Benz handcrafted, high-end Burmester Surround Sound System.