
The only way onlookers might miss the 2022 BMW X6 M is if this unusually styled, incredibly powerful SUV zooms past in a blur. With a twin-turbo V-8 powertrain producing over 600 hp, paired with a rear-biased all-wheel-drive system for maximum traction, there’s a high probability that this hefty M-powered machine will appear and disappear in the blink of an eye. Meanwhile, its passengers will be pampered by a plush and lavishly appointed cabin. Unfortunately, those with delicate constitutions won’t appreciate its harsh ride, and its sloping rear roofline sacrifices storage space compared to the boxier BMW X5 M. While BMW started the polarizing fastback SUV trend with the original X6, imitators such as the Porsche Cayenne Coupe and Mercedes-AMG GLE-Class have joined the fray. The 2022 X6 M might not be everyone’s cup of high-octane tea, but this is one midsize luxury SUV that’s likely to attract attention and is guaranteed to generate excitement.
The 2022 X6 M features only very minor changes. These include the addition of enhanced Bluetooth technology across all models and the removal of wireless device charging from the list of standard features. Other minor changes include the new Dravit Grey metallic exterior paint, Silverstone Extended Merino leather upholstery, and revised option packages.
It's hard to imagine how…
The only way onlookers might miss the 2022 BMW X6 M is if this unusually styled, incredibly powerful SUV zooms past in a blur. With a twin-turbo V-8 powertrain producing over 600 hp, paired with a rear-biased all-wheel-drive system for maximum traction, the likelihood that this hefty M-powered machine will appear and disappear in the blink of an eye is high. Meanwhile, its passengers will be pampered by a plush and lavishly appointed cabin. Unfortunately, those with delicate constitutions won’t appreciate its harsh ride, and its sloping rear roofline sacrifices cargo space compared to the squarer BMW X5 M. While BMW started the polarizing fastback SUV trend with the original X6, imitators such as the Porsche Cayenne Coupe and Mercedes-AMG GLE-Class have joined the fray. The 2022 X6 M might not be everyone’s cup of high-octane tea, but this is one midsize luxury SUV that’s likely to attract attention and is guaranteed to generate excitement.
The 2022 X6 M features only very minor changes. These include the addition of enhanced Bluetooth technology across all models and the removal of wireless device charging from the list of standard features. Other minor changes include the new Dravit Grey metallic exterior paint, Silverstone Extended Merino leather upholstery, and revised option packages.
It’s hard to understand how less practicality can command a higher price. Still, the 2022 X6 M costs $3500 more than its boxy counterpart, the X5 M. We prefer the less expensive body style, but the X6 certainly attracts more attention. Regardless, the Competition package is a must-have. Not only does it deliver 617 horsepower—17 more than the standard model—but it also comes with better standard equipment. This includes a sport-tuned exhaust, an exclusive Track mode, and 22-inch rear wheels (compared to 21-inchers). The Competition package also features higher-end leather upholstery and knee padding on the center console to reduce discomfort during hard cornering.
Equipped with the same roaring engine that powers the BMW M5 sedan, the X6 M is powered by a twin-turbo 4.4-liter V-8. It produces 600 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque in its standard configuration and 617 ponies with the Competition package. The engine is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission that powers a dynamic all-wheel-drive system. This drivetrain can be configured to distribute power to all four wheels for maximum traction or to send most of it to the rear for sharper handling. In addition to its selectable drive modes—including customizable settings that can be activated via steering-wheel-mounted buttons—the X6 M even features adjustable brake-pedal feedback. The BMW also comes standard with adaptive dampers and a set of 21-inch wheels, but a pair of 22-inch wheels can be fitted to the rear (they’re standard on the X6 M Competition). We’ve driven the X6 M Competition and praised its lightning-quick acceleration, staggering cornering grip, and strong, fade-free brakes. While it rode smoothly and steadily on the highway, its large wheels and stiff springs contributed to a bumpy ride on uneven roads.