2016 BMW X6 Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?
What's New for 2016:
Changes in the 2016 BMW X6 mostly involve equipment. All versions of the model now come with the Bluetooth package that includes phonebook syncing, text messaging capability and an extra microphone as a standard feature. The xDrive50i model gains satellite radio, four-zone climate control and Harman Kardon audio as standard features.
Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2016 BMW X6 – The Pros
1) Acceleration: A Powerful Engine
The base model sDrive35i comes with a 300-HP turbocharged 6-cylinder engine. The xDrive50i features a 445-HP dual-turbocharged V8 engine. All models come standard with an 8-speed automatic transmission. These features in combination work to create a powerful rush when the accelerator is engaged. The power is perfect for the highway, but it maintains a level of quiet that is just as fine for cruising around town.
2) Handling: Responsive Braking and Suspension
The base X6 model comes with rear-wheel drive and Driving Dynamics Control that allows for Sport, Sport+, Comfort+ and Eco Pro driving modes. Sport mode makes the suspension and steering firmer while Comfort+ mode creates a more cushioned suspension. The X6 also has sturdy and responsive brakes. The 2016 BMW X6 is a large vehicle, but it has nimble and precise handling despite this fact. The comfort and control of the X6 provide for fun and control along with security.
3) Fuel Economy: Higher MPG Than Its Competitor
The sDrive 35i has an EPA-estimated combined fuel economy of 21 miles per gallon (18 city/25 highway), and the xDrive 35i has a combined fuel economy of 20 mpg (18 city/24 highway). These numbers are average for a luxury midsize SUV, but it still beats outs its main competitor in the Porsche Cayenne. The standard Cayenne gets only 14 mpg city and 21 mpg highway by comparison.
4) Safety: Numerous Included or Available Features
The 2016 BMW X6 comes with several standard and optional safety features, and some of these include:
- Air Bags for Driver and Passenger Side
- Side & Side Head Air Bag
- Rear Head Air Bag
- Traction Control
- Electronic Stability Control
- Brake Assist
- Four Wheel ABS
- Blind Spot Notification
- Lane Departure Alert
- Night Vision
- Daytime Running Lights
- Child Safety Locks
- Auto-Leveling Headlights
The BMW Assist program is a standard emergency communication feature that offers roadside assistance, automatic crash warnings and vehicle recovery options in the event of theft. In brake tests, the X6 xDrive35i with summer tires came to a stop at 108 feet going 60 mph. This is shorter than many other vehicles in its class and as impressive as some high-performance sports vehicles.
5) Features: Numerous Features for Convenience
The 2016 X6 comes standard with a multitude of convenient features such as:
- 10.2-inch Dash Screen
- Push-Button Start
- Front and Rear Parking Sensors
- Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control
- Nine-Speaker Audio System
- HD Radio
- Smartphone Integration
- Power Moonroof
6) Comfort: Qualities That Make Driving Easier
The luxury automobile is designed with quality materials and equipped with various features to make driving and riding more enjoyable. In addition to its numerous comfort packages, the BMW X6 comes with several features for enhanced comfort such as:
- BMW's iDrive Infotainment System
- Padded Knee Bracing
- Deep Door Storage Pockets
- Multi-Contour Seats
- Rear-Seat Entertainment System
- Cruise Control
- Electric Power Steering
- Dual Illuminating Vanity Mirrors
7) Exterior: Quality Features and Impressive Build
The 2016 X6 is the model's second generation, and it is known for its bold design that is based on the X5. The vehicle also comes with some impressive exterior features, including:
- Privacy Glass
- Variable Rain-Sensing Wipers
- Power Glass Sunroof
- Rear Power Liftgate Door
- Intermittent Rear Wiper
- Rear Defogger
- Cargo Tie Downs
- Trailer Wiring
8) Interior: Luxury Interior Features
Everyone may not prefer the look of the exterior, but the interior is designed in the classic style of BMW. It features leather and wood all around along with other quality materials that provide surroundings of elegance. Its luxurious upholstery and trim give way to numerous high-end touches that justify the vehicle's price tag. There are also additional trim levels available that provide dramatic color combinations for even more style.
9) Technology: Turn the Vehicle Into a Smart Device
Like a luxury automobile, the 2016 BMW X6 is equipped with various technological functions to allow for connecting devices, entertainment, and navigation. Some of these functions include:
- Smartphone Integration
- Front and Rear Parking Sensors
- Navigation
- USB Port
- Bluetooth
- Touchpad Controller That Allows for Finger Drawing
- Dual-Screen Rear-Seat Entertainment System
10) Packages: Various Options Available for Personalization
The Dynamic Handling Package adds rear air suspension, adjustable shock absorbers and an adaptive suspension that improves turning balance and steering speed. The Cold Weather Package features a heated steering wheel and heated rear seats while the Lighting Package offers adaptive LED headlights and automatic high beam control. The Executive Package is available for the X6 xDrive50i, and it adds leather dashboard trim, soft-closing doors, manual rear side window shades, Heads-Up Display (HUD) and ceramic-trimmed controls.Reasons Not to Buy a 2016 BMW X6 – The Cons
Cargo: Small Space for Storage
The cargo space for this vehicle is way smaller than most midsize SUVs. When passengers take up the rear seats, there are only 20.5 cubic feet of space. With the rear seats dropped, there are 53.9 cubic feet.
Room: Small Space for Passengers
Entering or exiting the backseat can be difficult as the sloping shape of the roof makes it complicated for most adults as they must duck down quite low. This must also be done while moving around the rear wheel well. The rear doors may not open wide enough for some passengers.
Price: Racks Up Cost With Options
As the BMW X6 is a luxury vehicle, it comes with high-quality features. When the various options are included, the price can rise quite quickly. This becomes more significant when its other shortcomings are taken into consideration.
Exterior: Unique Appearance
The 2016 BMW X6 has a bold look that almost gives the appearance of a large sedan. This less-than-typical appearance for an SUV may be undesirable for some owners.
How it Stacks Up to the Competition:
Compared to the Porsche Cayenne, the X6 has a better engine and start system. This system in the Cayenne can be complicated, and it has poor visibility and design in its coupe models. The X6 is more compact regarding height compared to the Cayenne, which only goes up to 7-speed transmission. Compared to the Mercedes-Benz GLE, the X6 features a turbocharged straight 6-cylinder engine. It offers features such as Heads-Up Display, night vision, and hands-free communication.
The 2016 BMW X6 is a comfortable vehicle that rides smoothly while offering a powerful engine. It comes equipped with a number of convenient technological features, and there are various individual options and packages available to enhance the driving experience even further. The X6 also presents a number of advantages over some of its fiercest competitors.
