BMW X6 (E71) Specs & Photos – 2008, 2009

The 2008 BMW X6 was a game-changer like the first generation of the X5. The big, coupe-like SUV, started a trend that was followed almost a decade (or more) later by its main competitors.

The 2008 BMW X6 was based on the BMW X5 platform but had a modified all-wheel-drive system and that transformed it into a faster SUV on the corners. The BMW actually referred to the vehicle as a SAC – Sport Activity Coupe.

The X6 had an aggressive look and the descending roofline amplified the sporty look. For some people, it was hard to understand that X6 handling was actually in the performance-car territory.

Inside, there was room for four people. On the back-seat, there was not even a place for a potential third passenger. The trunk was smaller than those on some compact-class vehicles and it couldn’t be extended by folding the rear seats. It featured a standard infotainment iDrive system with a large LCD display in the dashboard.

Under the hood, there was a good variety of engines, both diesel and gasoline. But one of the best version was the X6 3.5 d that offered up to 286 hp and 660 Nm (486 lb-ft). But the X6 had some other options to offer. The 6-speed automatic transmission was standard.