Michael Satterfield
The 2024 BMW X6 M60i is a luxury SUV that promises an exceptional driving experience by combining power, sophistication, and cutting-edge technology. It delivers on most of that promise, but a recent mid-cycle exterior design update means you must also like how it looks. Our office did not like the styling, with most of our team not falling in love with the body style, the fake scoops, or the overall look of it. Some of that could be due to the Isle Of Man Green, which was not the most flattering color on the X6.
The X6 M60i has a formidable 4.4-liter twin-turbo V-8 engine that delivers an exhilarating 523 horsepower and 551 lb-ft of torque, thanks to the integration of mild hybrid technology. According to BMW, this potent powertrain propels the X6 M60i from a standstill to 60 mph in around 4.3 seconds. Moreover, integrating an electric motor enhances efficiency and responsiveness, especially evident in the seamless operation of the automatic stop/start feature. The V8 is thirsty as well; we only averaged 19 MPG over the course of a week, driving in the country, city, and highway.
The X6 M60i exudes confidence and poise while driving, thanks to its Adaptive M Suspension, which tends to be on the sporty side, as expected in a car with any M badge. The suspension is firm and sporty, but you feel every bump in the road, even in comfort settings. The handling is fantastic, aided by standard rear steering and Active Roll Stabilization. The active M Sport exhaust amplifies the visceral appeal of the V-8 engine’s growl, providing an immersive driving experience that tantalizes the senses without compromising cabin serenity.
Inside the cabin, the X6 M60i showcases incredible luxury and intuitive technology that makes driving it easy. The twin-screen array features a 12.3-inch gauge cluster and an expansive 14.9-inch infotainment display, epitomizing modernity and sophistication. The intuitive iDrive 8.5 system ensures seamless connectivity and control, and the touch-sensitive controls for climate functions are integrated into the main screen, enhancing accessibility and minimizing distractions. The deep chocolate brown leather seats were very nice. Still, the floor height made getting in and out of the X6 surprisingly awkward for young and old alike. It was especially difficult for my older passengers to get in and out, as the step up to the floor level was surprisingly high, and a lack of handles they could reach made it a challenge to comfortably enter and exit the vehicle. The back seat was also fairly tight, especially with how narrow the rear door is, again combined with the very high step up to the floor level, which required passengers to awkwardly contort their bodies to get in and out of the car.
The X6 M60i is practical for both urban excursions and long-distance journeys. The size makes it easy to park in the city, aided by an array of cameras. We took it on a shopping trip to our local Dillard’s to pick up some items for a project. The generous cargo space swallowed up four large shopping bags, plus we had already added our luggage for a weekend at our place in the country, and there was still room left over. On our hour-long journey to our place near Lake Limestone, I took advantage of a host of driver assistance features, including lane keep assist and adaptive cruise control, making the highway drive effortless.
The X6 M60i’s bold aesthetic presence and distinctive styling made a statement in the small town where our place is. The bright green BMW commanding attention stood out among the sea of ranch trucks and starkly contrasted the Lincoln and Buick “going to town cars” that populate small-town Texas on the weekend. It didn’t help that the BMW press cars have California plates.
The X6 M60i comes with a luxury price point, starting from $94,595. Our test car cost just over $111,000, which may place it beyond the reach of many buyers. For me, this is not the BMW I would buy, mainly because I want my M cars to be like the M2, performance-focused. In contrast, what I want in a luxury SUV like the X6 is something that is supremely comfortable, quiet, smooth, and can haul passengers and gear with ease, like the Mercedes-Benz GLE. However, its unparalleled combination of performance, refinement, and versatility justifies the investment for those who demand the best. Whether carving through winding mountain passes or easily navigating city streets, the 2024 BMW X6 M60i elevates the driving experience to new heights, setting a benchmark for excellence in the luxury SUV segment.
