Niche for the bold - the BMW X6 M Competition

When the X6 burst onto the scene in 2008, it pioneered a new category: the “Sports Activity Coupe.” This innovative concept combined the practicality of the popular X5 with the styling of a performance coupe. At the time, the concept was controversial, seeming neither fish nor fowl. However, a decade and a half later, the X6 remains as resilient and popular as ever. Now in its third generation, the 2025 model features a lifecycle refresh with styling and performance improvements, most notably the addition of 48V mild hybrid technology that enhances torque.

Whether you find the X6’s design brilliant or perplexing, it’s undeniably a conversation starter. It caters to buyers who prioritize style and performance but also seek the versatility of an SUV. The X6 makes a bold statement and is likely not suited for those who prefer to blend in. For those who embrace its sleek design and powerful spirit, it offers a proven and compelling driving experience on a functional platform. Fifteen years, and here we are with the 2024 X6M Competition—a car that’s still the automotive equivalent of that friend who shows up to the party wearing a Prada tracksuit. It’s loud, unapologetic, and insists that you pay attention.

Exterior Styling

The X6M Competition’s silhouette is defined by an aggressive front end and a sloping roofline that descends into a subtle rear spoiler, enhancing its sporty demeanor. This design choice not only contributes to aerodynamic efficiency but also accentuates its athletic stance.

The latest generation features a redesigned front end with new matrix-LED headlights that are 35mm narrower than the previous model and adaptive control. The BMW kidney grille is all-black with enlarged bars and model badging, while the central lower air intake has been redesigned into a single black X-shape, emphasizing a bold look.

The LED taillights, extending around the vehicle’s corners and nearly converging at the center of the tailgate, amplify the X6M’s broad posture—a hallmark of BMW’s design language for its M models. Additionally, the rear spoiler and prominent diffuser, along with quad exhaust outlets finished in black chrome, underscore the vehicle’s high-performance capabilities. The X6M comes standard with 21-inch M light-alloy wheels at the front and 22-inch wheels at the rear.

From the side and rear three-quarter view, the X6M appears quite tall and it feels like it should have a slightly broader stance with more muscular wheel-arches for an M car. I would have liked to see BMW return to the flared wheel arches of the original 2009 X6M, as those wide shoulders and haunches made the earlier model look more planted and poised.

Interior Design

The interior of the X6M Competition mirrors its exterior in terms of luxury and innovation. The cabin is adorned with polished carbon fiber and sumptuous Merino leather, extending through the quilted leather doors to create an environment that is both opulent and inviting. A new curved display screen merges the driver and infotainment displays behind a single piece of glass, elevating the interior to a digital masterpiece. This setup includes a 12.3-inch display behind the steering wheel and a 14.3-inch control display, nearly devoid of physical buttons, lending the cabin a sleek, futuristic look.

Inside, there is no mistaking that this is an M model. The supportive M multifunction seats, M leather steering wheel with two machined red aluminum M buttons, and beautiful carbon fiber paddle shifters with red accents enhance the sporty feel. The ambient lighting bar with an M logo can be adjusted to different colors based on your mood. This car was also equipped with the Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System, featuring 20 speakers and 1,500 watts of audio, providing incredible acoustic range and crisp fidelity.

Powertrain

Under its sculpted hood lies a new 4.4-liter TwinPower Turbo V8 engine. This is the first high-performance M model to feature 48V technology with an electric motor compactly integrated into the eight-speed M Steptronic transmission. The electric motor delivers up to 12 hp of additional drive power and 147 lb-ft of torque, also serving as a starter generator. The battery charges through regenerative braking and during overrun. The V8 engine includes a reinforced crankshaft drive, enhanced turbocharging, an improved oil-supply and separation process, and redesigned air intakes. This combination delivers a staggering 625 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque, propelling the X6 M Competition to 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds.

The integration of a new version of the eight-speed M Steptronic transmission, which incorporates the electric motor, enhances both responsiveness and efficiency. Drivelogic offers three shift settings in automated and manual modes with a retuned setup for sharper shifts. The electric motor smooths out start/stop functionality, contributing to the vehicle’s refined operation. The X6M also features a newly adapted version of the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system and Active M Differential, allowing for adjustable front-to-rear bias and epic drifts.

Handling and Performance

Driving the 2025 BMW X6M Competition is akin to wielding a finely tuned instrument. Its M-tuned all-wheel-drive system ensures power is judiciously distributed, enabling the vehicle to leap from a standstill to 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds. My car was equipped with the M Driver’s Package, which unlocks the X6M Competition’s performance, allowing it to reach 177 mph and leave all your worries in the dust. This cements its position as a formidable player in the high-performance SUV segment.

The X6M’s chassis has been precisely set up with the M Suspension Professional, featuring electronically controlled dampers and active roll stabilization. The steering gear has also been modified to enhance handling and dynamics. The result is a stiff chassis design and finely honed handling that provide a combination of dynamic agility and long-distance comfort, making the X6M enjoyable in the canyons like a high-performance sedan, while also adept at long trips.

Consideration Set

The consideration set for the X6M includes the Mercedes AMG GLE 63S, Audi RS Q8, Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid, and Range Rover Sport SVR, with horsepower ranging from 590 hp (Audi) to 729 hp (Porsche) and prices from around $140,000 to $200,000. The X6M sits squarely in the middle of this category, offering the most horsepower and performance per dollar.

My Car

The base price of the 2025 X6M Competition is $129,700. My demo car was equipped with Velvet Blue Metallic paint ($5,000), a Taruma Brown full Merino leather interior ($3,500), the Executive Package ($3,500), the upgraded Bowers & Wilkins sound system ($3,400), the M Driver’s Package ($2,500), and M Compound Brakes with red calipers ($650). This brought the total retail price to $148,845, including delivery.

In summary, the 2025 BMW X6M Competition is more than just a vehicle; it’s a statement. Its meticulously crafted exterior, powerhouse under the hood, and luxuriously appointed interior set a new benchmark in the SAC segment. Whether cruising down coastal highways or navigating city streets, the X6M Competition does so with unparalleled grace and agility, truly embodying the spirit of BMW’s M division.