BMW, one of the world’s most successful premium carmakers, also boasts an excellent position in the all-wheel-drive market, a segment it first entered 30 years ago. Around one in three BMW cars sold around the world is now equipped with the intelligent BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive system. BMW’s success in this segment has been driven not only by the ever-popular BMW X models but also by all-wheel-drive models based on the other model series, from the BMW 1 Series to the BMW 7 Series. Across these model series, a large choice of AWD models is offered in a wide range of engine versions. At the same time, BMW continues to refine this technology and take it in new directions. By offering BMW xDrive in combination with a hybrid drive and with a front-wheel-drive platform, the company has repeatedly demonstrated its proficiency in the all-wheel-drive field, proficiency that will secure BMW’s position at the forefront of this sector well into the future. Today, BMW offers more than 110 models – of either transmission type – with BMW xDrive in 12 different model series, as well as the plug-in hybrid BMW i8 sports car and the compact BMW 225xe with electrified all-wheel drive.

The focus from day one: traction and dynamics.
BMW’s first foray into the all-wheel-drive market came with the unveiling of the BMW 325i “Allrad” at the Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA) in 1985. From the outside, the newcomer didn’t immediately reveal its inner qualities, so its performance when the journalists took it out on the test track was even more of an eye-opener. This very first BMW all-wheel-drive system not only improved traction away from surfaced roads and in adverse weather conditions, but also made for more dynamic handling through corners. “The new BMW is the new champion when it comes to handling,” was the verdict of the testers from German car magazine Auto Zeitung not long after the first unveiling.

Today, the intelligent BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive system takes typical BMW driving dynamics to new levels. The current generation of this system is controlled by the Integrated Chassis Management (ICM) system, which ensures that xDrive always responds appropriately at the earliest possible moment, based on reliable sensing and monitoring of the current driving situation. The interventions may be performed either entirely by BMW xDrive, or by xDrive in combination with Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) or Dynamic Performance Control (DPC). The resulting fast and precise control of drive power distribution ensures typical BMW handling characteristics even under extremely dynamic cornering.

The all-wheel-drive system is biased towards the typical BMW rear-wheel-drive characteristics. That is to say, on the all-wheel-drive models a greater share of the drive power is sent to the rear wheels, even under normal driving conditions. This maintains the typical BMW precise steering response, with virtually no torque steer. For crisp turn-in and high tracking stability, the latest-generation BMW xDrive system starts increasing the amount of power sent to the rear wheels as soon as the vehicle enters a corner, further enhancing the driving pleasure for which BMW is a byword.

BMW all-wheel-drive technology: continuous evolution since 1985.
The full-time all-wheel-drive system featured on the BMW 325i “Allrad” of 1985 split the drive power in a ratio of 37 to 63 per cent between the front and rear wheels. In response to wheel speed differences, visco locks in the transfer case and rear differential were capable of providing a virtually rigid connection between the front and rear wheels, in order to improve traction and stability. This model’s name was soon changed to BMW 325iX, and from 1988 it was offered in a “touring” version as well (lower-case spelling up to and including the E46 series).

1991: BMW 525iX.
Three years on, BMW introduced an all-wheel-drive model in the BMW 5 Series too. For the first time, the power split was now electronically controlled. The newly developed system featured multi-plate clutches that allowed the default 36:64 front-to-rear power split to be varied seamlessly and automatically in line with driving conditions. Initially a hydraulically controlled multi-plate clutch was used at the rear axle, but this was later replaced by electronically controlled selective braking intervention. The system monitored the driving situation using wheel speed signals from the Anti-lock Braking System, supplemented by further information about brake status, engine speed and throttle valve position.

From the outset the all-wheel-drive system of the BMW 525iX was a class apart. The electronic control system delivered a very fast and precise response, resulting in safe, neutral handling characteristics even in difficult driving conditions, such as on wet roads or snow. In the BMW 5 Series, too, the first all-wheel-drive models were offered in both Sedan and touring versions.

1999: The Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) opens a new chapter.
In the run-up to the new millennium, a highly innovative vehicle concept from BMW made its sensational debut. The BMW X5, the first Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV), impressed customers with driving dynamics that were unmatched among other all-terrain vehicles of the time. The outstanding all-wheel-drive system played a big part in this. A planetary gear system split the drive power in a ratio of 38:62 per cent between the front and rear wheels, while electronic control systems such as DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), ADB-X (Automatic Differential Brake) and HDC (Hill Descent Control) ensured the new BMW X5 was both sporty on the road and equipped to handle challenging conditions off the beaten track.

In the years following the successful launch of the SAV concept, there was no let-up in the fast pace of all-wheel-drive development at BMW. The next year, 2000, a model-specific version of the BMW X5’s all-wheel drive technology became available for the fourth generation of the BMW 3 Series.

2003: BMW xDrive makes its debut in the BMW X3 and BMW X5.
Four years on from the debut of the BMW X5 in 1999, BMW kept up the momentum by launching the SAV concept in a further vehicle segment. The new BMW X3 was more compact than the BMW X5 and offered even more agile handling. It set new benchmarks and remained the only premium model in its class for years to come.

The newly developed BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive system, which was introduced in the same year in both the BMW X3 and the BMW X5, soon extended BMW’s lead in the AWD segment. Based on an extremely fast-acting electronic multi-plate clutch in the transfer case, xDrive worked in tandem with the Dynamic Stability Control system (DSC) to continuously adapt the drive power split to the current driving situation. In addition to wheel speed, for the first time the electronic control system also took into account Dynamic Stability Control data, for example about steering angle, accelerator position and lateral acceleration. This is what makes BMW xDrive the world’s first, and still only, “intelligent” all-wheel-drive system. Unlike conventional all-wheel-drive systems, which only react when at least one wheel is already spinning, xDrive is able to detect a risk of oversteer or understeer at the very first signs, and proactively corrects this by redirecting the flow of drive power.

In the years that followed, the BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system was fitted not only on the X models but also on the xDrive versions of the BMW 3 and 5 Series Sedan and Touring models. By the time the second generation of the BMW X3 was introduced in 2010, more than 600,000 units of this series had already been sold worldwide. A little earlier, sales of the BMW X5 – which entered its second generation in 2006 – had topped the one million mark.

2008: SAC with Dynamic Performance Control and hybrid drive.
With the two Sports Activity Vehicles now firmly established in their respective segments, in 2007 BMW went on to present the world’s first Sports Activity Coupe. Unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA), the brand-new BMW X6 elevated the typical dynamic character of the BMW X models to a new level of intensity. For the first time, the intelligent all-wheel-drive system was combined with Dynamic Performance Control (DPC), which varies the drive power split between the rear wheels when cornering to ensure unrivalled agility and stability, even under sudden throttle changes or on overrun. In 2009, the BMW Active Hybrid X6 demonstrated a further perfect pairing – between BMW xDrive and hybrid propulsion. Meanwhile, in the same year, BMW M GmbH added two very special models to its range of high-performance sports cars. With an M-tuned BMW xDrive system, including Dynamic Performance Control, the BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M boasted performance that was previously unknown in the all-wheel-drive market.

2009 also saw the arrival of a new X model, the BMW X1. For many years to come, the BMW X1 was destined to remain the only vehicle of its kind in the premium compact segment. Its intelligent BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive system, like that of the new BMW X3 (2010), was also combinable with Performance Control. This system selectively brakes the wheel on the inside of a turn while simultaneously increasing engine power, resulting in quick and precise turn-in to corners and taking the agile handling of both models to new levels.

BMW xDrive also available for other model series.
The steady advance of the BMW X models has been accompanied by an increase in the number of xDrive versions offered in the other BMW model series too. Designed to improve cornering agility and precision, BMW xDrive provides an enhanced driving experience and an optimal combination of dynamics and comfort. So it was only a matter of time before this intelligent drive technology made its debut in the BMW 7 Series as well, in 2009. In spring 2012, the first all-wheel-drive Coupe and Convertible models were then offered in the sporty BMW 6 Series. BMW xDrive can also be specified on the current BMW 3 and 5 Series and, since 2013, on the Convertible, Coupe and Gran Coupe models of the new BMW 4 Series.

Driving progress ever forward.
BMW took things forward in the premium mid-sized segment with the launch of the BMW X4 in 2014. The new Sports Activity Coupe offers a unique blend of driving enjoyment, sophisticated style and contemporary practicality. It comes with BMW xDrive as standard and is available in a wide range of engine versions. In the same year, BMW also presented the third generation of the BMW X5, the second generation of the BMW X6, and M Sport versions of both models. BMW xDrive also made its debut in the new BMW 2 Series Active Tourer. This was a debut with a difference, being the first time BMW had combined its intelligent all-wheel-drive system with an all-new front-wheel-drive format.

With the BMW i8, unveiled in 2014, the BMW Group took a bold new step in new directions – which also extended to the all-wheel-drive system. This 2+2-seater sports model is powered by a highly advanced plug-in hybrid drive system that pairs an internal combustion engine driving the rear wheels with a high-performance electric motor driving the front wheels.

Focused on the future: BMW xDrive meets BMW eDrive.
BMW’s latest all-wheel-drive models bring technology advances that are firmly focused on the future of mobility. The BMW i8 was followed by the international launch of the first production plug-in hybrid model from the BMW core brand: the BMW X5 xDrive40e. Thanks to full-time BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive and eDrive BMW EfficientDynamics technology, this Sports Activity Vehicle mates thrilling and effortless sporty performance with outstanding efficiency. Intelligent hybrid power management synchronises the operation of the internal combustion engine and the electric motor to maximise efficiency at all times, while also responding perfectly to the driver’s demands. The drive from the two power units is transferred to the road via the full-time BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system.

BMW 7 Series: Integral Active Steering combinable with BMW xDrive.
In September 2015, the sixth generation of the BMW 7 Series makes its world debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA). This high-end BMW luxury model pioneers groundbreaking innovations on all fronts, and will be available with BMW xDrive from its market launch in October. The new luxury sedan will also be the first model to allow intelligent all-wheel-drive to be combined with Integral Active Steering – that is to say with passively steering rear wheels.

Please find attached the complete press kit for download.

The ultra-high performance with exceptional fuel efficiency that characterises every car from BMW’s sporty M division is once more fused with all-roads, all-weathers capability with the introduction of the second-generation X5 M and X6 M. Compared to the 2009 models which they succeed, they bring improvements of up to 10 per cent in power, torque and performance while lowering fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by over 20 per cent.

Both models are powered by a new 4.4-litre M TwinPower Turbo V8 engine with two TwinScroll turbochargers. With outputs of 575 hp and 750 Nm, it is the most powerful engine ever developed by BMW for four-wheel-drive vehicles. It is linked to a newly developed eight-speed M Steptronic automatic transmission now featuring Drivelogic. The cars’ outstanding driving dynamics benefit from specific tuning by BMW M, while their bespoke interior and exterior designs blend sportiness, luxury and functionality.

The new M TwinPower Turbo V8 engine: the best of all worlds

The bare figures for the new BMW 4.4-litre V8 engine in the X5 M and X6 M are impressive enough in themselves, but they tell only half the story. This new power unit develops its maximum 575 hp – four per cent more than the engine in the previous models – from 6,000 to 6,500 rpm, while peak torque of 750 Nm (a gain of 10 per cent) is available from 2,200 to 5,000 rpm. This combination of high-revving capability with linear, rapid response is thanks to the engine’s innovative M TwinPower Turbo technologies, which include cross-bank exhaust manifolds, two TwinScroll turbochargers, direct fuel injection working at a pressure of up to 200 bar and VALVETRONIC variable valve control.  

These technologies, in combination with the newly developed eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic, ensure performance more than meets the expectations of a car from BMW M while at the same time demonstrating exceptional fuel efficiency. The X5 M and X6 M accelerate from 0-62 mph in a supercar-equalling 4.2 seconds, but in normal road driving they are capable of 25.4 mpg, with CO2 emissions  of 258 g/km – reductions of over 20 per cent compared to the previous models.     

The cross-bank exhaust manifold sends two converged streams of exhaust gas to the TwinScroll turbochargers through four separate exhaust ducts. The engine features an extremely rigid closed-deck crankcase which permits the high fuel injection pressures necessary for it to achieve its impressive power output. A lightweight, torsionally stiff forged crankshaft with low rotating masses helps to sharpen the engine’s responses.  

Every model from BMW M has to be passed as ‘fit for the Nordschleife’. The extreme lateral and longitudinal acceleration put upon cars when lapping the Nurburgring places high demands on an engine’s oil supply, but sophisticated sump and suction snorkel geometry ensures that the X5 M and X6 M can generate up to 1.2 g without problems. Meanwhile, a combination of low- and high-temperature radiators ensures optimum cooling for the engine coolant, charge air and engine and transmission oil. Electronically controlled flaps within the exhaust system help to provide a riche sporty soundtrack.   

The eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic delivers all the advantages in terms of responsiveness of the M Double Clutch gearbox in other BMW M models, with the smoothness of a torque converter automatic. It also allows for a wider spread of gear ratios to foster greater fuel efficiency, and for the first time in a torque converter automatic it permits ‘creep on demand’ through the Low Speed Assistant system. The Drivelogic function allows the driver to prioritise fuel economy, comfort or sports performance, while gear changing can be fully automatic or driver-controlled via paddles on the steering wheel. A Launch Control function is fitted to permit perfect standing starts.

The xDrive four-wheel-drive system is fully flexible in the way it distributes torque to each axle, to ensure maximum traction on all roads and in all weathers. Normally the bias is towards the rear to give the X5 M and X6 M maximum agility, but when the occasion demands, 100 per cent of engine torque can be sent to either axle.

Sports Activity Vehicles with the emphasis on ‘sport’
BMW created the Sports Activity Vehicle sector with the original X5 and X6, and the new M models are once again the ultimate expression of the genre. They now deliver improved cornering force through revisions to the upper front wishbones, which have increased camber, camber progression and steering pivot axis, while directional stability has been increased thanks to revised elastokinematics with more rigid bearings. The X5 M and X6 M feature firmer suspension tuning than other X5 and X6 models, a 10 mm lower ride height, Dynamic Drive active roll stabilisation and self-levelling air suspension at the rear. Dynamic Performance Control with COMFORT, SPORT and SPORT+ modes allows the driver to personalise the suspension settings at the touch of a button.

Both models feature specially developed mixed tyres to ensure the maximum steering precision and feedback, traction and lateral and directional stability. They are fitted as standard with Pirelli P Zero tyres (285/40 R 20 Y at the front and 325/35 R 20 Y at the rear) on 20-inch light-alloy rims, but 21-inch wheels with Michelin Pilot Super Sport UHP tyres (285/35 R 21 Y front; 325/30 R 21 Y rear) are optionally available.

The steering is an electronically assisted rack and pinion M Servotronic system with M-specific gearing and tuning. Compared to a conventional hydraulic steering set-up, it reduces fuel consumption by 0.3 litres per 100 kilometres (62 miles). As with the suspension, drivers can opt for COMFORT, SPORT and SPORT+ settings. The high-performance brakes have been hones in motor sport and feature six-piston fixed callipers at the front, single-piston floating callipers at the rear and 50 per cent larger brake linings than those in the previous models. Weight has been reduced by 1.6 kg, helping to reduce unsprung masses. The brake callipers are painted in Dark Blue metallic.

The new four-wheel-drive M models now feature an optimised DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system which permits an even more dynamic driving style and includes the additional safety functions Brake Standby, Brake Drying, Fading Compensation and Start-Off Assistant. DSC now allows three driving modes – DSC on, in which case the electronic systems provide maximum help to maintain stability;  M Dynamic Mode (MDM), which allows some mild drifting before the electronics come to the driver’s assistance; and DSC off, which intervenes only in the most extreme circumstances.

Sportiness meets luxury in the function-led design
The exterior design of the new BMW X5 M and X6 M is purely function-led. The four large air intakes and flaps at the front and the diffuser at the rear perform essential cooling and aerodynamic functions, for example, and the same is true of the M-specific Air Breathers behind the front wheels, which reduce turbulence in the front wheel arches. Airflow around the cars is so well managed that both drag and lift are minimised.

From the front, the two cars are identical, but as they stretch backwards the X5 M demonstrates its sporting practicality and versatility while the X6 M has the flowing lines of a high-performance sports coupé. Both have the raised seating position typical of a BMW X model. The headlights with integrated washer system are borrowed from the BMW X6, while special flaps in the outer front air intakes – adapted from those on racing cars – reduce lift. Both cars have twin-stalk exterior door mirrors with integral indicators. At the rear, there are body-coloured M aprons and a distinctive four-tailpipe exhaust – another M hallmark. The X6 M has a spoiler to reduce rear-axle lift.

The interiors exude sporting luxury. There is an M leather steering wheel with gearshift paddles, an M gearshift lever, an M Drive menu in the information display and M Drive buttons on the steering wheel. The M front sports seats, like the rest of the upholstery, are trimmed in fine-grain Merino leather with contrast stitching, and there are embossed M logos. Door sill strips with model lettering, aluminium interior trim strips and an anthracite-coloured roof liner from BMW Individual add further touches of sporting exclusivity.

Standard features include Adaptive Dynamic suspension, Adaptive M suspension, Cruise Control with brake function, Driving Assistant, Dynamic Stability Control Plus (ABS, ASC, brake drying, brake fade compensation, brake pre-tensioning, Cornering Brake Contol, Dynamic Brake Control, Dynamic Traction Control, Electronic Brake-force Distribution and Hill-start Assistant), Hill Descent Control, front and rear Park Distance Control and a rain sensor with automatic headlight control.                               

There are 40:20:40 split folding rear seats, electric driver’s seat adjustment with memory, heated front seats, downlights in the exterior door handles, High-gloss Shadowline exterior trim (including the roof rails on the X5 M), metallic paint, a split tailgate with a powered upper section (for the X5 M), two-zone automatic air conditioning, front and rear cup holders and courtesy lights, all-round electric windows with comfort closing, velour floor mats, footwell lights (LED in the front), a leather-trimmed instrument panel, Aluminium Trace interior trim with Pearl Grey Chrome finishers, a retractable and removable luggage cover, four 12-volt power sockets, electric steering wheel adjustment, green window tinting and an engine start/stop button.

Infotainment is provided by the BMW Professional DAB radio with a single CD player. There is also a 20GB hard disc drive and a socket for connecting auxiliary devices. Both cars are also supplied with Enhanced Bluetooth featuring Voice Control, BMW ConnectedDrive services (Apps interface, Emergency Call, Online Services, TeleServices, Information Plus, Real Time Traffic Information and Remote Services), an M-specific Head- up Display, BMW Professional Multimedia Navigation and an On-Board Computer.

The BMW X5 M and X6 M arrive in dealerships on 11 April, 2015, and will be priced at £90,170 and £93,070 respectively.

Ends

The BMW Group

The BMW Group is one of the most successful manufacturers of automobiles and motorcycles in the world with its BMW, MINI, Husqvarna Motorcycles and Rolls-Royce brands. As a global company, the BMW Group operates 29 production and assembly facilities in 14 countries and has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2012, the BMW Group sold about 1.85 million cars and more than 117,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax for the financial year 2011 was euro 7.38 billion on revenues amounting to euro 68.82 billion. At 31 December 2011, the BMW Group had a workforce of approximately 100,000 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been built on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company has therefore established ecological and social sustainability throughout the value chain, comprehensive product responsibility and a clear commitment to conserving resources as an integral part of its strategy. As a result of its efforts, the BMW Group has been ranked industry leader in the Dow Jones Sustainability Indexes for the last eight years.

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Gavin Ward                           BMW Media Relations Manager
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The new BMW X6 redefines the Sports Activity Coupé market which BMW created with the original model back in 2008. Featuring a new interpretation of the car’s robust yet sportily elegant styling, a more luxurious interior, greater versatility, enhanced equipment and superior performance with up to 22 per cent lower fuel consumption, it is set to build on the near-250,000 sales of the first-generation model.     

The new X6 will go on sale in the UK in December 2014, initially with a choice of three TwinPower Turbo engines, with one more to follow after launch. An eight-speed Sport automatic transmission is standard along with the latest version of BMW’s xDrive four-wheel-drive system. The xDrive30d and xDrive50i models are available as SE and M Sport models, while the M50d will be available as a stand-alone model.   

The new BMW X6 reinterprets the Sports Activity Coupé

The original X6 combined the robustness of an SUV, the sporty elegance of a coupé and the luxury of a limousine and these key features have been reinterpreted in the new model.    

The design characteristics which distinguish any BMW – a long bonnet, long wheelbase, short front overhang and set-back passenger cell – remain ever prevalent.  In the new X6 they are combined with large wheel arches, a high window sill, high seating position and a short distance between the front axle and instrument panel, all of which highlight its off-road stability. These are complemented by X-shaped contours in the bumper, matt silver underbody protection and a powerful double-kidney grille flanked by large twin circular headlights which turn into the front wings. The robustness of the new X6 is reinforced at the rear by horizontal lines which appear to stretch its width, matt silver underbody protection, the surfacing of the high-opening tailgate and a powerful bumper and flat apron.   

Sharp contours emerging from the front wheel arches, one stretching upwards and finishing at the rear door handles and the other running downwards then turning back towards the L-shaped rear light units, assist the coupé-like roofline to emphasise the car’s sportiness.

The interior is plush and luxurious, with rich-looking materials, including Softskin on the dashboard, instrument surround and upper-arm trim panels. The standard Fine Brushed Aluminium trim sits atop a high-gloss black surface, underscored by an accent strip in Pearl Grey Chrome. The instruments are enclosed within the black panel display, while a 10.2-inch widescreen display comes as part of the standard BMW Professional Navigation system. Ambient lighting can be set to blue, white or orange, or combinations of the three.

All versions have Dakota leather upholstery in a choice of six colours, a multifunction Sport leather steering wheel with gearshift paddles. The rear seats are split 40:20:40 as standard to improve the versatility of the interior. Luggage capacity has been increased by up to 75 litres to a maximum of 1,525 litres.

Unique design features of the BMW X6 M50d include bespoke contours for the front apron, larger air intakes, muscular side sill extensions and a rear apron with diffuser. The kidney grille is Matt Aluminium fronted with Black vertical slats, there are stainless steel exhausts with Black Chrome finishers, Ferric Grey exterior mirror caps, M50d inlays in the door sill finishers and 20-inch M Double-spoke light-alloy wheels.

More power, lower fuel consumption and enhanced EfficientDynamics

The three TwinPower Turbo engines available at launch maintain BMW’s tradition of combining even more performance and driving pleasure with greater efficiency. They deliver higher power outputs with lower fuel consumption and emissions, aided by additional EfficientDynamics technologies, a further developed eight-speed Sport automatic transmission, weight reduction and improved aerodynamics. All engines meet the EU6 emissions standard thanks, in the case of the diesel engines, to a NOx absorber catalyst and an SCR catalyst with AdBlue injection.

The 3.0-litre six-cylinder common-rail diesel engine in the xDrive30d features a single turbocharger with variable inlet geometry. It develops 13hp and 20Nm more than its predecessor – now 258hp and 560Nm. With peak torque available from 1,500rpm, this translates into effortless driveability and a zero to 62mph acceleration time improved by 0.8 seconds to 6.7 seconds. Fuel consumption has been reduced by 15 per cent to a combined 47.1mpg, while CO2 emissions are down to 157g/km.

A diesel engine also powers the M Performance version of the new X6, the M50d. This 3.0-litre six-cylinder unit features three turbochargers working harmoniously in a precise multi-stage process and common-rail injection with piezo injectors, generating up to 2,200 bar pressure. With outputs of 381hp and 740Nm available over a wide rev range, it delivers the performance typical of an engine developed by BMW M – zero to 62mph in 5.2 seconds, a reduction of 0.1 seconds – with greater efficiency. Fuel consumption of 42.8mpg represents a 14 per cent improvement over the previous model, while CO2 emissions come down to 174g/km thank to the two relatively small turbochargers and a single large one which dovetail precisely to maintain charge pressure for instant, lag-free response.

The petrol version available at launch is a further development of the 4.4-litre V8 for the xDrive50i, which features twin turbochargers and high-precision direct injection.  The power output is increased by 10 per cent to 449hp and torque by 50Nm to 650Nm, which is available from 2,000rpm. The zero to 62mph time therefore tumbles by 0.6 seconds to 4.8 seconds, while fuel efficiency improves by 22 per cent. The new combined economy figure of 29.1mpg is accompanied by CO2 emissions of 225g/km.

Later in 2015 these will be joined by an additional six-cylinder diesel in the 313hp xDrive40d.

All engines are combined with an eight-speed Sport automatic transmission which permits the driver to take control using either the gear selector or paddles on the steering wheel. The transmission now features Launch Control to maximise traction and acceleration from standstill, while - in conjunction with the BMW Professional Navigation system – the car is able to take into account the route being followed when deciding when to change gear.

Additions to the EfficientDynamics technologies which feature on all BMWs include a new ECO PRO mode activated via the Drive Performance Control switch in the centre console. This moderates the engine management, accelerator response and gearshift programmes to promote a relaxed, fuel-efficient driving style. It also includes a Proactive Driving Assistant which advises the driver when to ease off the accelerator on the approach to corners, junctions or speed-restricted areas. Auto Start-Stop, Brake Energy Regeneration and lightweight engineering also assist in fuel-saving and efficient driving.

The aerodynamic properties have been enhanced to improve the drag co-efficient (Cd) to as low as 0.32 for the xDrive30d SE. Detailed streamlining work includes the addition of BMW’s innovative Aero Curtain and Air Breathers to reduce turbulence in the front wheel areas, cooling flaps in the front end which open or close depending on airflow requirements and optimised airflow over the rear.

Dynamics and comfort taken to a new level

The new X6 takes the dynamism, comfort and safety of the Sports Activity Coupé to a new level through the latest xDrive all-wheel-drive system, revisions to the double-wishbone, double-joint front suspension and patented integral rear axle, and innovative additions to BMW’s suite of electronic driver assistance features.

The xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system now features a lighter and more efficient transfer case, while by linking up with the car’s Dynamic Stability Control it is able to sense and adjust the drive split before wheel slip can occur. The xDrive system also features torque vectoring, which aids turn-in during cornering by selectively braking the inside wheels.  A new xDrive status feature in the Control Display informs the driver of body roll and pitch, while a compass display can also be shown.

Improvements have been made to the suspension, enhancing the X6’s sporting agility and ride comfort. The car’s directional stability has been sharpened, tyre noise and suspension weight have been reduced, there is less friction within the wheel bearings and the optional trailer coupling now has a fully electric towbar. The BMW X6 can tow up to 3.5 tonnes and has trailer stability control to prevent swaying.

There are now three adaptive suspension packages available allowing owners to tailor sports performance and ride comfort precisely to their requirements. Adaptive M suspension is standard on the M Sport and M50d models; Adaptive Comfort suspension is optionally available on SE variants; while Adaptive Dynamic suspension – which includes Dynamic Performance Control, Dynamic Drive with Active Roll Stabilisation to curb body roll and a torque-per-axle display – is available across the range.

Significantly more standard equipment and a greater range of personalisation features

The new BMW X6 provides far higher levels of standard equipment than the previous model, while offering customers greater opportunity to personalise their vehicle. Among the highlights of the new personalisation options are the Pure Extravagance packages.

Standard equipment additions include: part-electric front seats with heating, LED ambient interior lighting, Full Black panel display and Driving Assistant featuring Lane Departure Warning plus Pedestrian and Collison Warning with Braking. All versions of the X6 also now come with BMW eCall and Online Services, Bluetooth Hands-free facility with USB audio interface and Voice Control as well as the BMW Professional Navigation system, incorporating Real Time Traffic Information. 

The Pure Extravagance Exterior Design package adds illuminated Aluminium door entry sills and Aluminium running boards, Air Breather, exterior mirror caps, trim, kidney grille and air intakes in Cerium Grey.  Black high-gloss finishers on the B and C pillars and mirror triangles, a key with Pearl Grey Chrome buttons and Black high-gloss insert and front and rear stainless steel bumper inserts finish the look.

The Pure Extravagance Interior Design packages add Nappa bi-colour leather upholstery, in Ivory White and Black or Cognac and Black with contrast stitching, in Grey or Brown respectively, on the instrument panel top and upper door armrests. A remote control with Pearl Grey Chrome buttons completes the package.

The new BMW X6 can be further enhanced through the extensive range of optional  features including: Comfort Access, soft-close doors, Aluminium running boards, High-gloss Black or Matt Aluminium roof rails, a Reversing Assist camera with optional Surround-view, an electric glass sunroof, sun protection glass and sunblinds.   The interior can be optionally specified with ventilated front seats, an extended storage package, heated steering wheel, four-zone climate control, BMW Professional rear-seat entertainment and three upgraded loudspeaker options.

A range of additional safety options are also available and include Driving Assistant Plus - which automatically maintains the distance to the car ahead above 19mph - Lane change warning system, Adaptive LED Headlights, Active Steering, Internet access, Online Entertainment and Remote Services. Park Assist, Head-up Display  and Night Vision with Dynamic Light Spot are also available. 

The new BMW X6 starts from £51,150 OTR for the BMW X6 xDrive30d and will go on sale on 6 December, 2014.     

Ends

The BMW Group

With its three brands BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. As a global company, the BMW Group operates 28 production and assembly facilities in 13 countries and has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2013, the BMW Group sold approximately 1.963 million cars and 115,215 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax for the financial year 2013 was € 7.91 billion on revenues amounting to approximately € 76.06 billion. As of 31 December 2013, the BMW Group had a workforce of 110,351 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company has therefore established ecological and social sustainability throughout the value chain, comprehensive product responsibility and a clear commitment to conserving resources as an integral part of its strategy.

Further information about the BMW Group can be found here:

Web: www.bmwgroup.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BMWGroup

Twitter: http://twitter.com/BMWGroup

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/BMWGroupview
Google+: http://googleplus.bmwgroup.com

For further information please contact:

Krystyna Kozlowska            BMW Media Relations Executive

Tel: 01344 480707             Email: Krystyna.Kozlowska@bmw.co.uk

Gavin Ward                           BMW Media Relations Manager

Tel: 01344 480829             Email: Gavin.Ward@bmw.co.uk

Piers Scott                            General Manager, Product and Internal Communications

Tel: 01344 480113             Email: Piers.Scott@bmw.co.uk

Graham Biggs                       Corporate Communications Director

Tel: 01344 480109             Email: Graham.Biggs@bmw.co.uk

Press office fax: 01344 480306

Media website: www.press.bmwgroup.co.uk

Customer website: www.bmw.co.uk