The updated BMW X6 loses some camouflage in a series of new spy shots. Our photographer captured a pre-production prototype outside the Nurburgring in Germany and this time, he wore less disguise than before. We finally get to see the front fascia where a pair of larger kidney grilles seem to be the highlight, though there are other visual changes worth talking about as well.
But first, the grid. The shape of the panel in front of the radiator doesn’t seem to have changed but the overall size has increased slightly. Don’t worry – the dimensions don’t come close to what the M3/M4 duo have and in the context of the large front fascia, the X6 features, the redesigned grille actually looks really good.
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Surrounding the kidney grille are now slimmer headlights that are likely to feature laser technology in higher trim levels. Underneath the grille, the front bumper has reshaped air intakes and a slightly more aggressive bumper design. Overall, the front fascia looks more sculpted than before, which is definitely a nice change from the previous coupe-SUV version.
Even more important changes are likely hiding in the cabin. Our sources tell us that the dashboard will likely receive BMW’s new dual-screen curved display setup as seen on the i4 and iX. The infotainment portion of that screen will run the company’s latest infotainment software. Another novelty is expected to come in the form of a new gear selector with a minimalist design, similar to what the iX has. This change has not been confirmed by the automaker.
We expect further changes to occur under the hood. Most importantly, the M Performance model positioned below the X6 M is expected to get a new BMW S68 4.4-liter V8 twin-turbo engine, identical to the one found under the X7 M60i. The X6 M60i will send 530 horsepower (390 kilowatts) to all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic gearbox and BMW’s xDrive system. Other electric six- and eight-cylinder engines will be part of the lineup, although we don’t know much about what will change.
