Even the most informed analysts did not see it coming. Everybody knew that BMW was going to unveil the Mini Cooper – another offshoot of the sport utility X5 – at this year's auto show in Detroit, but no one anticipated the coming of the X Coupe. Not only was this a surprise in itself but there was quite a buzz about the look of this concept car. It appears that the new management really wants to stand out from the works of the previous stylists who seemed to be satisfied with just freshening up old designs. The X Coupe is the result of this approach.
The X Coupe is completely different from the previous style; its designers actually took their inspiration from the spectacular Z9 prototype unveiled in Frankfurt in 1999. Although its external design did not please everyone, it is clear that this coupe is a foretelling sign that many production models will have this stylish curved line on the body side.
On the motor side, this coupe is also special since it uses the same platform as the X5 and is powered by an in-line 3-litre six-cylinder turbodiesel engine. It delivers 184 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque. An automatic 5-speed transmission is controlled with buttons located on the steering wheel. Finally, just like the X5, this coupe is an all-wheel drive and is loaded with driver electronic aid gadgets.
This hybrid BMW is not a 2+2 model but rather a 1+3 model because the driver is favoured with a higher driving position than what is usually the norm in this category and has more room to move. The other three passengers have to content themselves with more humble seating.