Spy Shots: New Gen 2016 BMW X6 Sports Crossover Takes Shape

BMW has been left pretty much playing on its own in the luxury niche of coupe-profiled mid-size crossovers (we know, the description sounds ridiculous, but it is what it is) with the X6, especially after its nearest competitor, the Acura ZDX, turned out to be a sales flop and will end its career this year.

However, being that domestic rivals Mercedes-Benz and Audi are already preparing their counter proposals in the segment, BMW isn't resting on its laurels; instead, it is preparing a second generation X6, which we spied testing on the Nürburgring.

Set for a world premiere in late 2014 or early 2015 (as a 2016MY in North America), the new X6 evolves the current model's familiar shape, while reminding us of a bigger X4 (evidently, Audi's one style fits all philosophy is catching up in Munich).

From what we see in these pictures, the front will have a sharper look with more edgy detailing than the rounded X6 Mk1, with the same applying more or less to the profile lines and the rear end.

The new X6 will ride on the latest X5's lighter running gear and is expected to share similar exterior dimensions to the current model, which measures 192 inches (4,877mm) long, 78.1 inches (1,984mm) wide and 66.5 inches (1,689mm) tall.

All powerplants will be common with the X5, and will include several diesel (chiefly for Europe) and gasoline units, such as a 300hp turbocharged 3.0-liter straight-six petrol, a 4.4-liter V8 gasoline engine delivering 445 hp and the M-branded 3.0-liter tri-turbocharged inline-six diesel with 375hp (380PS) for the X6 M50d.

Down the line, we will see a range-topping X6 M model with a turbocharged V8 and possibly, a hybrid version.

Photo Credits: CarPix for CarScoopS

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Russian Tuner 'Status Design' Does the BMW X6 SAV

In case the BMW X6 just doesn't make the cut for you, Status Design, a Moscow-based tuning shop, has launched a new kit package for the Bavarian crossover that bundles aero mods with performance upgrades.

The exterior aero package includes a body kit with side skirts, carbon fiber roof spoiler, front bumper with LED daytime running lights, carbon trim on the window surrounds, mirror covers and dual-kidney grille, and a new rear bumper that makes room for a pair of dual tail pipes and a carbon fiber diffuser. A set of 22-inch alloy wheels from Hartge complete the crossover's looks.

BMW X6 Performance Unlimited: Japan-Only Special Edition Version

A bespoke version of the BMW X6 tweaked with bits and pieces from the shelves of the Bavarian firm's Performance and Individual divisions has been revealed in Japan. The BMW X6 Performance Unlimited is based off a X6 xDrive35i and will be offered in a strictly limited edition of 20 examples.

The Japanese-market-only X6 special is coated in a silver-pearl body color from the automaker's Individual program and comes with a BMW Performance aero-kit that includes a new front bumper, side skirts, rear diffuser and blacked-out kidney grilles. The unique 21-inch alloy wheels shod in chunkier sport tires and darkened windows round off the exterior package.

Russian Tuner Proposes BMW X6 Coupe Conversion

If you liked Merdad's idea of a two-door Porsche Cayenne SUV, then you'll be happy to know that another tuning firm has came up with a similar conversion for the BMW X6 crossover. This time, the culprit is a Russian company called ArmorTech that specializes on custom and armored vehicles.

Starting with the standard X6, Ameritech chops off the rear doors and moves the B-Column further back to fit larger front doors (+250mm or 9.8-in.). The conversion also includes a new rear window and bespoke front seats that tilt and slide forward to allow for convenient access to the rear seats.