SPIED: G06 BMW X6 – new X5 coupe seen testing

The second-generation F16 BMW X6 first made its world debut in June 2014, essentially a “coupe” version of the F15 X5 SUV. With this heavily camouflaged G06 BMW X6 prototype seen out in the open (and for the first time), it’s clear that the F16 is due for a replacement, and soon.

This unit was spotted right outside BMW’s production plant in Spartanburg, South Carolina, where the new G05 BMW X5 is being built. Just like the previous model, the new X6 will share the same platform and engine line-up as the X5.

Now, for the way it looks. From this set of photos, one can clearly tell that the kidney grille has been enlarged, and the headlights feature the same blue x-shaped elements that denote the availability of BMW Laserlights (optional on the X5). Like the X5, Adaptive LED headlights should come as standard, and the circular fog lamps – previously a staple of BMW’s X range – is no more, replaced by a strip of LEDs.

Round the side, the new Sports Activity Coupe (SAC) looks set to get the same steeply-raked roofline as the new X4, tapering down to meet seamlessly with the tailgate. It’s almost impossible to tell how the rear section will look through all that camo wrap, but rest assured it won’t veer too far from that of the X4. The tail lamps appear much slimmer than that of the G05 X5, although they feature a curved LED strip not unlike that seen on the new 8 Series.

Inside, expect the entire cabin of the G05 X5 to be carried over – this means it’ll get a fully digital instrument cluster, a high-res 12.3-inch Control Display, head-up display, BMW Live Cockpit Professional and the latest iDrive control system. Other features should include wireless charging, BMW Display Key, updated ambient lighting with Welcome Light Carpet, Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System, rear-seat entertainment and the same suite of Driving Assistant Professional as the X5.

Powertrain options should mirror the X5’s range, which includes a V8 petrol engine in the xDrive50i, a six-cylinder petrol in the xDrive40i and two six-pot diesels in the (tri-turbo) M50d and the xDrive30d. The highlight here is the 4.4 litre V8 in the xDrive50i, which packs 462 hp and 650 Nm of torque. This setup, together with an eight-speed automatic in the X5 xDrive50i, is good for a 0-100 km/h sprint time of 4.7 seconds. The previous X6 M, which will eventually be succeeded, gets there in 4.2 seconds with 575 hp and 750 Nm of torque.

While the X5 can be had as a seven seater, the G06 X6 will accommodate no more than five individuals, or four adults (including the driver) at best. Once out, it will go head to head against the all-new Audi Q8 and the next-generation Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe. For now, what do you think of the new X6?

GALLERY: G05 BMW X5

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