BMW X6, a luxury crossover in coupe avatar

BMW X6 is not for commoners, more so in India where car models that are imported as completely built units (CBUs), or fully-built, attract heavy taxation and duties. That’s is the sole reason why BMW X6 xDrive40d, the only variant of the luxury model available for sale in India, is priced at `1.15 crore (ex showroom). In contrast, the prices of BMW X6 start at as low as `75 lakh (AED 4.3 lakh for BMW xDrive30i) in Dubai while one can own a 2015 BMW X6 M for `65 lakh (US$1.02 lakh) in the United States

It’s obvious. BMW X6 is not for commoners. More so in India where car models that are imported as completely built units (CBUs), or fully-built, attract heavy taxation and duties. That’s is the sole reason why BMW X6 xDrive40d, the only variant of the luxury model available for sale in India, is priced at Rs 1.15 crore (ex showroom).

In contrast, the prices of BMW X6 start at as low as Rs 75 lakh (AED 4.3 lakh for BMW xDrive30i) in Dubai while one can own a 2015 BMW X6 M for Rs 65 lakh (US$1.02 lakh) in the United States.

Though it is not an effective way to compare prices of BMW X6 in India with those in other countries as diesel model is not on sale there, this gives an ample indication that Indians who buy such models are coughing up more than what their counterparts are paying in other countries.

But is such a prohibitive price deterring Indians from buying such models? It doesn’t look so as we get to see more luxury cars and SUVs on Indian roads these days when compared a couple of years ago. Recently, I have also seen a BMW X6 on Hyderabad roads though I am not sure it’s the latest iteration.

A section of Indians who are into business, working in higher echelons of software sector or employed overseas are making hordes of monies thanks to the inexpensive Indian currency. For them, shelling out a crore of rupees with ready financing options from banks is not a big deal these days.

Since the BMW X6 whose second generation model landed in India recently costs well over a crore of rupees, what does it really offer? That’s an interesting thing to know, isn’t it? First launched globally in 2008, the BMW X6 dubbed as sports activity coupe (SAC) by the German luxury carmaker is into its second avatar now.

A crossover draped in coupe contours of sloping rear, the 2015 BMW xDrive40d draws power from 2,993 cc, twin turbo diesel engine that produces 313 bhp peak power, a 11 hp higher than the outgoing model, and meatier 630 Nm torque - an increase of 30 Nm - that kicks in at a low 1,500 rpm.

The motor is paired with an advanced eight-speed automatic transmission. With that kind of torque and power at its disposal, the BMW X6 can obviously boast some envious numbers for a crossover of its size. It sprints from standstill to 100 kmph in just 5.8 seconds before hitting a top speed of 240 kmph.

For those who want the liveliness of the manual setup, BMW X6 has paddle shifters on the steering wheel. Also on offer is the BMW’s xDrive four-wheel-drive system which makes off-road driving a smooth and hassle-free affair.

The exterior design is a dexterous fusion of crossover and coupe with the former dominating the front while the latter takes care of the rear part. BMW’s signature kidney grille, LED adaptive lights and chrome adornments to the air inlets characterise the front while the rear sports L-shaped lights.

Inside, Dakota upholstery comes as standard, but customers can opt for Nappa leather. Intuitively-designed cockpit, updated instrument panel and elevated seating position are among other interior features. The new BMW X6 offers 580 litres of storage space when the backrests of the rear seat are in upright position.

As the backrests come split in a 40:20:40 ratio, the luggage space can be expanded to 1,552 litres if all the backrests are folded. BMW ConnectedDrive comprising infotainment, navigation and Harman Kardon sound system are also available. On safety side, the 2015 BMW X6 offers everything that you need.

Six airbags, dynamic stability control (DSC) including dynamic traction control (DTC), cornering brake control (CBC), hill descent control (HDC), side-impact protection, electronic vehicle immobilizer and crash sensor, round up the safety package. Overall, BMW X6 xDrive40d has everything that a luxury SUV of its size can offer.

But it’s priced higher in India owing to high import duties. However, the luxury SUV will not be hard your pocket when it comes to maintenance as it’s only offered with diesel engine. Go for it if you have enough dough. Otherwise, relish from the roadside when the newest member of India’s nouveau riche zips by in one.

By P Madhusudhan Reddy