Official - Second generation 2015 BMW X6 revealed, India launch likely in mid-2015

06/06/2014 - 15:18 BMW X6, BMW, 2014 Moscow Motor Show Anjan Ravi

BMW has pulled the wraps off the second generation X6. The X6, launched internationally in 2008 and in India in 2009, has been a successful model for the German carmaker with global sales exceeding 250,000 units.

2015 BMW X6 press shots front quarter — Second generation BMW X6 goes on sale in Europe in December.

The new 2015 X6 resembles its predecessor to a large extent, especially when viewed from the side. When viewed from the rear, one can mistake the X6 for the smaller BMW X4, given how strikingly similar their taillights are. At the front, the design elements are those seen on the new X5: Larger headlights that flow into the grille, a sportier bumper and a bigger kidney grille.

Underneath, the new X6 weighs 40 kg less than the previous model thanks to the use of high-strength steels, thermoplastics and aluminium. The use of magnesium in the instrument cluster has also contributed to weight savings, says BMW. Engineers have managed to achieve a 50:50 weight distribution for the new X6.

2015 BMW X6 press shots rear — The new X6 looks almost like the X4 from the rear.

Thanks to the weight savings, BMW says all engines of the X6 consume less fuel and emit fewer CO2. The engine variant we're interested in the most is the xDrive40d, which is sold in India. Powered by an inline six-cylinder 3.0-liter diesel engine, the xDrive40d continues to produce 313 hp. The fuel consumption of this variant is now rated at 15.87 km/l (EU tests).

The new X6 will go on sale in Europe in December this year. The xDrive40d variant though, will not start sales until spring 2015 (March-April 2015). We expect BMW India to launch the new X6 in mid-2015. The current model is priced at INR 99 lakhs ex-Showroom, and a price increase could be rolled out on the new X6.