X6 or X5?

[Steved]

I'm surprised not to have noticed any discussion about the X6, I'm certainly considering the X6 rather then the new X5 to replace my 4.8is in due time.

I'm aware that BMW are evolving the X5 model in two directions; the X5 gaining greater utility value and this new X6 taking a more performance biased direction. Both using the same chassis. I'm also aware from insiders that the next X5 will be around 5-7 inches longer than current and an inch or so taller, which is not what I personally want from the X5.

The X6 will (due in 2008) will be more of a Coupe shell on the next generation X5's 4WD drivetrain. It will still ride 200mm off the ground and be versatile in terms of road surface. It will be 4.8m long, carry 4 people and around the same amount of luggage space as today's X5. BMW intend it to create a new niche, offering the virtues of todays X5 with less weight and more biais towards road performance. There's still some confusion over engines, the 5.0 V10 seems definite but some rumours of a twin-turbo V8 with 400+bhp and also an evolution of todays 535d engine and perhaps a lightweight 265bhp straight six 3 litre.

A press release came out last year 'describing' the design philosophy but so far nobody has seen any pictures. BMW have hinted that it will bear a resembalance to the E92 Coupe with a rear hatch similar to the forthcoming Z4 Coupe. How that will look is anybody's guess but there are some interesting renderings floating around that raise my hopes.

There are many design renderings floating about, but here are just a few of them..