Dump the rear console
 

I'm losing track of how many customers came into my dealership to look at the X6 only to move over to an X5 because of 4 place seating. The typical comments is something along the lines of "for such a big vehicle, it's a shame it seats only 4."

Too bad the console isn't optional. It might help to move a few more units.

But that is the reason why BMW created an X6, next to the X5. Customers who need more space should buy an X5, all others who like the coupe style should buy the sporty X6.

In my opinion it would help more to move a few more units if BMW would upgrade to the new i-Drive in X5 and X6! ;-)

I had heard some rumors that they are thinking of making it optional last year. But nothing since.

I disagree. If I don't always use the utility of the X5, and want the performance of an X6, I'd still want 5 seats. Because those people are probably thinking of that awkward moment in the future when they're with 4 people and have to say "Sorry guys, I've only got 4 seats" and await the obvious response of "In an SUV!?"

I think someone showed a screenshot of the rear seat being an option in AUS. We'll see.

Um, guys, the rear console will un-bolt. Any good upholestry shop can find matching leather and make a center cushion. It's not that big of a deal. As a matter of fact, if I were a dealer, I would find a local shop and have them make 20-30 and offer it as a dealer installed option. You could sell an X6 and make a few extra bucks.

Just because a factory doesn't offer something doesn't make it impossible...

That is far from the best solution. Both lease and retail customers wold be impacted from a financial perspective. Modifications to factory installed equipment will serious impact the vehicle's value at lease termination. Aftermarket equipment also impacts the trade-in value for a purchased vehicle.

It is very rare than any BMWNA dealership would sell any after-sales accessory that is not BMW authorized equipment, especially anything that may require repair or maintenance over time. BMWNA wants BMW customers to be able to service their vehicle in any BMW authorized dealership, so the sales of non-BMW specialty equipment is discouraged. This in turn leads to the negative impact to trade-in and residual value as mentioned previously. However, it is the customer's discretion to make modification changes, so long as the change is not initiated in a BMW service department.

Dunno, Mike...I am surprised at your customers' responses.
If someone really likes the looks, performance, 'tude and
the price isn't a problem, I would think a 2 + 2 would not
be a major detriment. But whaduIknow...:D

In 7 1/2 years, I've carried 4 people total, many times in our
X5. I think I've had 5 maybe twice. It just seems to me that
the target demographic is not hauling 3 kids or 3 adults in the
back seat very often.
Just an opin from the back row of the Peanut Gallery.

Hope you and B are doing well! :thumbup:
BR,mD

Agreed on some points. Maybe a referral to a shop?

Then there's the seat belts...

It's just so rare that I would ever carry five people. I am uncomfortable even in an Escalade in the middle position.

I won't ride in the back of a 3 series with three adults. OK maybe to lunch five miles down the road, but that is it.

A 3 coupe has a similar console to the X6.

mD -

You're right - looks, performance, 'tude, and price is not a problem. And yes, the target demographic is geared is toward the driver who wants a statement vehicle.

In hindsight, the comments are more likely the product of the local demographic. We're smack dab in a affluent community, but one that also places a major value on family (as in hauling around the kids, in-laws, aunts, uncles, and whoever can fit). It's a demographic that buys alot of 7-series, S-class, etc., but they are definitely not the type of buyers who would buy Escalades or Surburbans (too ghetto).

+1. I would at least like to see a functional middle section so I could at least put our car seat there and still seat 4. My X6 is only a 3 seater now with the baby seat behind my seat.