The 2024 BMW X6 essentially takes the BMW X5 and gives it a sportier makeover with a sloping rear roofline. While this design choice certainly enhances its sporty silhouette, it does come at a cost to one of the key characteristics of an SUV: practicality. The lower roofline reduces rear passenger space and cargo capacity, and intriguingly, BMW asks for a higher price for the X6 compared to the more utilitarian X5.
When the X6 was first introduced back in 2008, there were doubts about its potential success. Yet, here we are, 16 years later, with the X6 still going strong. Its last redesign was in 2020, and for the 2024 model year, significant changes have been made. While the exterior receives subtle styling updates, more substantial changes lurk beneath the surface. The engines now incorporate mild-hybrid systems to enhance efficiency, and inside the cabin, a new infotainment system with a curved display makes its debut, along with a hands-free highway driving system.
Notably, the BMW X6’s endurance in the market has spurred other automakers to create their own sporty SUVs. The Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe and Audi Q8 have followed BMW’s lead by adopting a fastback-like tail, albeit at the expense of interior space. While it’s easy to criticize these SUV coupes for their higher price tags and reduced utility, they deserve credit for offering drivers a more athletic alternative. They provide a choice for performance-oriented shoppers who may not require as much interior space.
In summary, the 2024 BMW X6 serves as a sportier alternative to the more traditional X5 SUV. It delivers impressive performance, a beautifully crafted cabin, and useful utility. However, it does come with downsides, including reduced rear-seat passenger space and a higher price tag for the high-performance models.
