The 2021 BMW X6 trades some of the X5’s utility for a fashion moment, but doesn’t miss a performance beat.
Pros Distinct shape Better look Impressive performance Available twin-turbo V-8 power
Cons Cramped rear head room Expensive Not as practical as an X5 Big rear blind spots
The 2021 X6 lineup adds some new standard features, drops some old ones, and gets revised option packages. The most notable new addition is Android Auto, which was previously not available and now comes standard. However, BMW eliminates previous options such as the acoustic glass, glass interior controls, rear-entertainment system, and night vision with pedestrian detection. The six-cylinder X6 now features a 48-volt hybrid system, and the V-8-powered version adds standard remote start and ventilated front seats.
Pros Smooth and speedy powertrains, athletic handling and refined ride quality, f ulfills luxury mission.
Cons Unintuitive infotainment interface, X5 has a bigger cargo area, V-8 upgrade requires a significant investment.
Minor changes to feature availability and option packages for 2021.
Pros Strong acceleration from both engines Comfortable and quiet ride High-quality interior
Cons Sloping roofline cuts down on cargo space Rear visibility is less than ideal Limited rear headroom
Pros Tremendously powerful six-cylinder engine Grip and handling are excellent Sleeker styling than the related X3 M
Cons Excessively stiff ride Rear headroom is a bit tight Sloping roofline compromises cargo space and visibility
Like the regular X4, the high-performance X4 M receives some subtle styling upgrades for 2022. Larger grille openings, narrower headlamps, and reworked front and rear bumpers distinguish the refreshed X4 M from last year's model. The infotainment display has grown from 10.3 to 12.3 inches. More meaningful to us driving enthusiasts is a rework of the SUV's engine to produce more torque; horsepower remains the same across both X4 M models.
Pros Rip-snorting engine, bonkers acceleration, handling agile enough to trick you into thinking it's a sports car.
Cons Hard-edged ride, lacks the practicality of the mechanically-similar X3 M, coupe-like styling may not be for everyone.
