The 2017 BMW X6 M is about two things: style and performance. It has an abundance of both, but don't expect to get practicality, too. The 2017 BMW X6 M returns with an updated iDrive system that includes touchscreen functionality. The Executive option package also now includes a Wi-Fi hot spot and wireless charging for compatible cellphones.
Pros Stellar acceleration from turbocharged V8 Exceptional handling and stability for a heavy SUV Strong braking performance Wonderfully contoured seats hold you in place during hard cornering.
Cons Firm ride even with suspension in its softest setting Small cargo area Poor rearward visibility Limited rear headroom Sloping rear roofline makes for challenging entry and exit.
Who could have imagined marrying the tall ride height and all-wheel-drive ability of an SUV with the fastback styling of a sleek coupe would produce a desirable vehicle, but that’s exactly what BMW has done with the 2017 X6 SUV. Once an army of one, the X6 has been cloned by such notables as the Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe. Frankly we’re somewhat puzzled by the X6’s appeal. It isn’t a very off-road-capable vehicle and comes up short in areas designated for cargo and passengers. The 2017 BMW X6’s size precludes it from being as sporty as an Infiniti QX30 or Lexus NF, and yet despite these many drawbacks, the X6 is remarkably fun to drive and seems to have gained a loyal following.
Pros If you’re looking for a luxury SUV with unique looks, good handling and a lengthy options list, the 2017 BMW X6 SUV might appeal to you. It doesn’t come cheap, but then again what BMW does?
Cons If you need any part of the “utility” in Sport-Utility Vehicle, the 2017 BMW X6’s tiny cargo area, sharply slanted rear hatch and small rear seat probably won’t impress you. An X5 gives you similar performance as the X6 within a far more usable package.
The biggest demerit to the X6 M comes in its ride quality, which ranges from firm to unacceptably, jarringly firm, depending on how its air suspension is adjusted. On roads that are less than perfect, the head toss gets to be enough that wearing a helmet as protection against the suede headliner seems like a not-terrible idea. And then you’d be ready for the track, which is where the X6 M best acquits itself. Not that we imagine actually spotting any at track days. With a $103,050 base price, the X6 M’s window sticker is as extravagant as its test sheet. Save the snarky jokes about this being a “German Aztek”—they weren’t all that funny when the first X6 showed up nearly a decade ago. And today, when the automotive world has gone all-in on both horsepower and crossovers, what can we expect but things like the X6 M? This sort of automotive indulgence has never made much sense, but that’s exactly the point.
The 2017 Acura MDX ranks 10 out of 21 Luxury Midsize SUVs. The 2017 Acura MDX is a well-rounded and reasonably priced option for drivers looking for a well-equipped luxury midsize SUV.The 2017 Acura MDX ranking is based on its score within the Luxury Midsize SUVs category.
Pros Balanced ride and handling Excellent fuel economy More standard driver assistance features than rivals
Cons Cumbersome infotainment system Less cargo space than 3-row rivals
The 2017 Acura MDX is one of the best-driving, most technologically advanced three-row luxury crossovers, and a new Sport Hybrid model and active suspension should only add to that reputation. Among luxury crossovers, the Acura MDX is a standout in nearly every possible way—and it stands as quite a counterpoint to the brand’s sedans, which can’t seem to get proper traction in the market.While this model is already one of the best-driving models in its class, the 2017 Acura MDX has been given ride and handling improvements, more standard active-safety features, and a new Sport Hybrid variant that promises both better performance and higher fuel economy numbers.We give it a 7.5 out of 10.
Pros New Sport Hybrid Refined and quiet Great handling Space for six
Cons Rough-shifting transmission Too much bright trim Complex infotainment interface Lacks steering feedback
The 2017 Acura MDX receives a comprehensive face-lift, including a new front end with fresh headlight and grille designs. A Sport Hybrid model debuts with more power and better fuel economy than the regular MDX. New standard features for 2017 include capless fueling, an electronic parking brake, auto high beams, additional USB ports and the AcuraWatch suite of active safety aids (previously optional on some MDX versions). Newly available features include 20-inch wheels, LED foglights, automatic locking when you walk away from the vehicle, power-folding mirrors, a surround-view camera system, a heated steering wheel, upgraded wood trim and second-row captain's chairs.
Pros Generous array of features and active driver aids for the money Optional SH-AWD system enhances handling and all-season surefootedness Smooth and confident acceleration from the V6 engine Quiet, comfortable and spacious cabin
Cons Touchscreen isn't user-friendly and graphics are subpar Cabin looks and feels less luxurious than some rivals Clunky auto stop-start function Adaptive cruise control can be slow to respond and abrupt when it does
HIGHS: Standard active-safety tech, newly refined schnoz, excellent handling.
LOWS No longer the best, expensive option packages, frustrating infotainment system.
Still a compelling alternative to European luxury SUVs.
