2009 BMW X6 Preview

X Marks the Six

The curvaceous BMW X6 is a coupe-like SUV that emphasizes performance.

The 2009 BMW X6 is part of a trend to spice up four-door cars with swoopier styling. Think of it as a sportier-looking and less practical version of BMW’s midsize X5 SUV. What it adds in style, the X6 loses in convenience, with less room for rear occupants and cargo.

New on the X6 is Dynamic Performance Control, which integrates traction- and stability-control systems with BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system for better handling.

The X6 also ushers in a new convoluted naming system: the X6 xDrive35i will use a six-cylinder 300-hp engine; the X6 xDrive50i receives a 4.4-liter V8 with 400 hp. Both engines feature twin turbochargers and other technology designed to enhance performance and fuel efficiency. A version with a hybrid powertrain has also appeared at auto shows.

Check back for a full review.