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2010 BMW X6 M First Impressions

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Bertrand Godin
The heart wants what the heart wants
The engineers at BMW are aware that M is synonymous with driving pleasure, so the M Dynamic Mode (MDM) nonetheless allows for controlled skids, but only if the driver insists. In fact, you’ll probably have to deactivate the embedded systems to achieve this, but there’s no danger this time: this type of manoeuvre should be restricted to closed tracks, an environment the X6 M positively revels in.

When driving more sensibly, you can count on the xDrive all-wheel drive. BMW also included a system that allows you to customize the car with the calibrations of your choice. It’s also worth mentioning that the aids diminish as the car picks up speed, obviously in optimal conditions. You can truly become the master of the ship once more, with increased precision.

The only truly weak link performance-wise are the brakes, which overheat when used intensively. Despite the four pistons on each front disc, the X6 M’s total weight of 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs) makes itself known, increasing the required braking distance and causing a sharper heat accumulation. Sustainability of efficient braking is thus called into question, but only during truly sporty driving.

The cabin is very luxurious with its carbon trimming and nice luminosity.

Same story for the “intelligent” transmission: it simply refuses to downshift if you’re going too fast despite the presence of an rpm twinning system. In other words, a small adjustment is needed.

Dynamic surprise
Driving dynamics are all smoothness, contrary to what you would believe. The cabin is very luxurious with its carbon trimming and nice luminosity. The steering wheel offers a perfect grip. Of all the equipment, the heads-up display is my favourite.

As you would expect steering is very precise, and despite its size the X6 M is easily manoeuvrable. Which is fortunate, as accomplishing manoeuvres requires a little determination and a lot of confidence, rear visibility verging on the unacceptable.

The quality of the driving dynamics is not affected by the height of the X6, and it remains very stable in all conditions. And you have to admit that fuel consumption is respectable with an average rating of 13.9 litres per 100 km.

Not revolutionary
However loudly BMW proclaims it has created a new class with their SAVs, or Sports Activity Vehicles, the fact remains that the X6 M is an SUV, potent yes, but still an SUV. It comes to a segment where roam the likes of the Porsche Cayenne Turbo (from $118,900) and the Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG (from $97,500). The internal competition also has to be considered with the new, more practical X5M that has the advantage of space. The X6 M will start at $99,900 and the X5M at $97,900.

Conclusion
The X6 M is a blend of coupe and SUV that has inherited the spirit of a sports car. One of those little pleasures of which you shouldn’t deprive yourself to live your dream. But that has nothing whatsoever to do with reason.

photo:BMW
2010 BMW X6 M
bmw x6-m 2010
2010 BMW X6 M
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Bertrand Godin
Bertrand Godin
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