Test-driven: The BMW X6M Competition

Stylishly coordinated design features underscore the visually expressive character of the X6M Competition in the Sports Activity Vehicle and Sports Activity Coupé segments.

Supreme power

Supreme power, an imposing thirst for forward progress and extravagant styling allow the new BMW X6 M Competition to carve out a unique place on the roads of Mzansi. Fuel consumption combined of around 13.1l/100km, which is acceptable for the high revving machine under the hood. First Edition specification accentuates the effervescent and distinctive character of the BMW M models in the luxury Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) and Sports Activity Coupé (SAC) segments to, particularly stylish effect.

Exclusive

Precisely coordinated design cues for the exterior and interior lend the special-edition takes on the new BMW X6 M Competition the status of intoxicating rarities at the high-performance reaches of their respective segments. Their air of exclusivity creates the ideal environment in which to enjoy the unmistakable driving experience laid on by a racy V8 engine with two turbochargers and 460kW/625 hp, M-specific suspension and M xDrive all-wheel drive.

Looking good in any colour

The BMW Individual Frozen Dark Silver special paint finish available exclusively for the special-edition models showcases the exterior design of the new BMW X6 M Competition to an extremely impressive effect. This matt paint finish ensures the muscular proportions, clear forms and signature M details of the body design come authentically to the fore, regardless of how the light hits the car.

Image credit: Naresh Maharaj

Image credit: Naresh Maharaj

The X6M can also be specified with the BMW Individual Frozen Marina Bay Blue special paint finish. This exterior shade is one of the BMW special finishes now available ex-factory for the X6 M Competition. These special paint shades are increasing in number all the time.

Alloys: 22 inch

The high-quality paint finishes team up with M light-alloy wheels in star-spoke design with a Jet Black, high-gloss finish available exclusively for the special-edition models. The wheels (front: 21-inch, rear: 22-inch) are fitted with mixed-size tyres. The exterior styling also includes selected body elements made from carbon fibre-reinforced plastic. Like the M Carbon exterior mirror caps, the M Carbon rear spoiler for the new BMW X6 M Competition has an understated feeling of the race track. An M Carbon engine compartment cover is likewise part of First Edition specification.

Leather Interior

BMW Individual Merino full leather trim in exclusive bi-colour Silverstone/Midnight Blue ensures the interior and BMW Individual paint finishes fit together neatly. Black Alcantara inserts in the seat bolsters and contrast stitching in Sakhir Orange emphasise the sporting contours of the M multifunction seats.

The eye-catching contrast stitching also brings distinctive flourishes to the door panel trim and instrument panel. Taking its cue from the leather-covered instrument panel, the BMW Individual headliner in Alcantara is likewise in Midnight Blue. The high-tech and extremely lightweight material carbon fibre re-inforced plastic features in the interior of the special-edition models. Adornments include Carbon Fibre interior trim strips available in a special, market-specific design.

Verdict

My drive in the BMW X6M Competition to the northern parts of KwaZulu-Natal was nothing short of riveting and exhilarating. Gear changes were smooth and seamless and all you hear is the turbo-pops when the engines, mated to an eight-speed gearbox, changes up or down. Press the accelerator and the associated inertia rushes your head back onto the headrest and you know that you have all that power in your hands. A beast of a vehicle.

The First Edition variants of the BMW X6 M Competition is currently available to the South African market. But get in early as they are ‘limited editions’ and according to BMW South Africa, sales are going swimmingly well. Price on application at your nearest BMW dealership.