First Drive: Experiencing BMW’s ActiveHybrid X6 Crossover

by Ron Cogan

01/15/2010

First, let’s get this straight: This is no super-high-mpg gas-electric hybrid. It was never intended to be because, after all, this is a BMW crossover vehicle, first-cousin to an SUV, and it weighs over 5,500 pounds. BMW calls it a Sports Activity Coupe but we’ve driven crossovers long enough to know one when behind the wheel.

Now that we’re beyond that qualifier, let us share just how much we like this vehicle. Well-heeled buyers looking for the ultimate combination of performance, sportiness, and luxury may get behind the wheel for a spin and never want to leave.

It’s that good, and that comfortable, and that accommodating. But then, at a base price of $89,725 it had better be.

As the world’s most powerful hybrid vehicle with a combined 480 hp and 575 lb-ft peak torque, BMW’s ActiveHybrid X6 is quite an experience to drive. It’s fast…really fast….with press-you-back-in-the-seat 5.6 second 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) acceleration. That’s the same as the much lighter and identically priced Porsche Panamera S. Okay, it can’t match the Panamera’s 177 mph top end, but we doubt any X6 driver is interested in high speed shenanigans, anyway.

What those stepping up to an ActiveHybrid X6 will be interested in is the wonderful way in which driver and passengers are spoiled in every conceivable way. From nicely bolstered Nappa leather seats that snug up against a driver as the ‘start’ button is pushed to its heads-up display, rear-view camera, power tailgate, and premium 600 watt sound system with 16 speakers and two subwoofers, this vehicle offers it all.…and then some.

SPECIFICATIONS

Powerplant: Two Mode Hybrid

ICE Engine: 4.4-liter V-8

Induction: Direct injection, twin turbo

Hybrid Output: 480 horsepower

Hybrid Torque: 575 pounds-foot

Transmission: 7 speed automatic

Seating Capacity: 4

Length: 192 inches

Width: 78.1 inches

Height: 66.5 inches

Wheelbase: 115.5 inches