2014 BMW X6

BMW X6 Review

The 2014 BMW X6 ranks 17 out of 19 Luxury Midsize SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of published reviews and test drives of the BMW X6, as well as reliability and safety data.

Reviewers say the 2014 BMW X6 has the weight and height of an SUV and the smaller interior of a sporty car, resulting in a vehicle that disappoints both in terms of performance and utility.

The base BMW X6 xDrive35i comes standard with a turbocharged six-cylinder engine that test drivers agree is refined and delivers strong acceleration. A more powerful twin-turbocharged V8 engine comes with X6 xDrive50i models, and while automotive journalists appreciate the extra power, some say that most drivers should be satisfied with the power and acceleration that the base X6 offers. An eight-speed automatic transmission is standard, and critics say it shifts quickly and smoothly. The base 2014 X6 xDrive35i gets an EPA-estimated 17/24 mpg city/highway, which is on par for a six-cylinder luxury midsize SUV with all-wheel drive. Test drivers write that the 2014 BMW X6 offers controlled handling and powerful brakes, though some note that steering effort is a little heavier than they would like.

Critics think that the 2014 BMW X6 has an eye-catching interior that’s built with top-notch materials. They say the X6 is very nice up front thanks to spacious seats, though many write that the back seats are a bit cramped. Cargo space is typical for the class with all seats in use, but many SUVs offer more overall cargo space with the rear seats folded. Some reviewers note that the X6’s iDrive infotainment system is a bit complicated, but others write that the system becomes fairly intuitive after some study. The 2014 BMW X6 comes standard with features like a moonroof, front and rear parking sensors, Bluetooth and a 10-speaker sound system. Available features include a head-up display, a rear-seat entertainment system and adaptive cruise control.

"Cars don't get much more outlandish than the BMW X6, which combines the heft and elevated ride height of a crossover with the rakish roofline of a coupe. The styling takes a toll on passenger and cargo space, although the X6 does offer the handling, luxury and performance for which BMW is known." -- Left Lane News
"The X6's SUV classification should be taken with a grain of salt, however, as it's not terribly well suited for off-roading and its raked rear end negates what could be a useful cargo bay. But, if you're an urban dweller who prefers performance to practicality, BMW's 2014 X6 has much to offer." -- Kelley Blue Book
"The X6 is the slowest-selling BMW after the Z4. It's ponderous and inefficient like a giant SUV, but has the interior space of a medium-sized hatchback." -- AutoWeek (2013)
"Marketed as a cross between an SUV and a coupe, the 2013 BMW X6 unfortunately represents a rather poor blend of both." -- Edmunds (2013)

Other SUVs to Consider

Reviewers say the Porsche Cayenne has superb handling and an attractive interior with opulent materials. The Cayenne also has more cargo space than the X6, and an available turbodiesel engine gives it great fuel economy for the class.

The Land Rover Range Rover Sport comes with a supercharged V6 that test drivers say produces ample power, and they love its comfortable ride and athletic handling. Additionally, reviewers note that the Range Rover Sport is one of the most capable off-road SUVs in the class.

Details: 2014 BMW X6

The 2014 BMW X6 seats up to five and has all-wheel drive. Three trims are offered, which range from the X6 xDrive35i with a turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission, to the high-performance X6 M with a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine and a six-speed automatic transmission. The BMW X6 hasn’t been fully redesigned since 2009. Since it sees no major changes for 2014, this overview uses applicable research and reviews from the 2009 through 2014 model years.