2025 BMW X6 Expert Review
Reviewed by Billy Rehbock
The BMW X6 is one of the original SUV coupes and continues to set a benchmark for this niche segment. After a major refresh for the 2024 model year, the BMW X6 carries over into 2025 with few changes. The 2025 BMW X6 competes with other swoopy luxury SUVs, including the Porsche Cayenne Coupe, the Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe, and the Audi Q8.
What’s New
For 2025, xDrive40i models receive full LED lights with cornering lights as standard equipment. This feature was previously part of the Executive package.
What We Think
Defying conventionality has been the BMW X6’s schtick since it was first introduced for the 2008 model year. Perhaps no variant of the svelte SUV has mastered the format as well as the current-generation model. Powerful engines with mild hybrid technology, a luxurious ride, and impressive tech contribute to the X6’s well-rounded versatility.
Even the basic BMW X6 xDrive40i packs a sporty punch, and its cabin is outfitted with upscale materials and sleek design choices. All models make use of large displays for the digital gauge cluster and infotainment screens. Stepping up to the M60i variant hikes up the X6’s price significantly, but driving enthusiasts will love the powertrain’s smooth and torquey power delivery.
At the top of the range, the X6 M Competition impresses as a true super SUV. Around town, the suspension is firm but comfortable. On the track, the X6 M Competition stands out with well-weighted steering and responsive handling.
There are few reasons to not pick a BMW X6 if you have the means. It’s a little smaller inside the cabin than the X5 and there’s no plug-in hybrid available. If we’re really nitpicking, the panel for the window controls is hard to reach because of the door’s handle. Otherwise, we’re fans of the 2025 BMW X6. Few vehicles blend style and substance with this much panache.
Performance and MPGs
BMW outfits every version of the 2025 X6 with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The entry-level model is called the X6 xDrive40i and features a 3.0-liter turbocharged I-6 mild hybrid powertrain developing a total of 375 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque. BMW claims a 0-60 mph sprint of 5.2 seconds, a number we have yet to confirm in our own testing. Fuel economy comes in at 23/26 mpg city/highway.
Stepping up to the mid-level BMW X6 M60i xDrive gives you a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V-8 with mild hybrid assistance. Output totals 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque. BMW claims a 0-60 mph sprint of 4.2 seconds. Fuel economy takes a hit, dropping to 17/22 mpg.
At the top of the range, there’s the BMW X6 M Competition, which cranks out 617 hp and 535 lb-ft of torque from its 4.4-liter twin-turbo V-8 mild hybrid powertrain. In our test, a 2024 BMW X6 M Competition launched from 0-60 mph in just 3.5 seconds. Fuel economy is notably poorer than the M60i xDrive model at 13/18 mpg.
BMW X6 M Competition: Upgrades Galore
Drivers interested in the 2025 BMW X6 should consider springing for the M Competition trim level. The powerful 4.4-liter twin-turbo V-8 receives a 12-hp and 147-lb-ft motor integrated into the housing of its eight-speed automatic transmission for a total system output of 617 hp and 535 lb-ft of torque. This time around, BMW isn’t offering a standard version of the X6 M, so this is expected to be the only flavor available for 2025.
For better rigidity and handling, BMW improved the X6 M Competition’s body structure bracing and revised the SUV’s electronically adjustable suspension tuning. BMW made some cosmetic tweaks for 2024 as well, including a minor nose and tail tuck, exterior trim revisions, a curved iDrive display, and a handful of new interior color and trim options. Mechanical enhancements include a standard M Sport exhaust in a black chrome finish, new catalytic converters to reduce emissions, a cast-aluminum oil sump with increased capacity, and an active M differential on the rear axle. For our full review on the 2025 BMW X6 M Competition, check out our First Test review.
Safety Features
BMW will outfit every 2025 X6 with automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Those desiring a more sophisticated suite of active safety tech should option BMW’s Driving Assistance Professional Package which adds BMW's new Highway Assistant. The Parking Assistance package equips automatic parking with smartphone-enabled memory functionality, a 360-degree camera, and front and rear parking sensors.
X5 vs. X6: Cargo Space and Interior Room
BMW tweaks the X6’s dimensions in accordance with the SUV’s sloped roofline. That means front-row passengers get slightly more legroom but those sitting in the rear get less than in the more spacious X5. Cargo space suffers in the X6 as well.
Technology
All 2025 BMW X6 SUVs receive a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment display and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, both of which are housed underneath a single pane of curved glass. BMW offers standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, navigation with augmented reality directions, and configurable ambient lighting. Equipping the Premium package adds a remote engine start, a head-up display, BMW’s Gesture Control, and a Harman Kardon surround sound system. The Executive package goes further, building on the Premium package with an LED-embedded Panoramic Sky Lounge roof, glass controls, soft-close doors, and rear manual window shades.
Which 2025 BMW X6 Trim Level Is Best?
BMW offers the 2025 X6 at three trim levels: xDrive40i, M60i xDrive, and M Competition. We recommend stepping up beyond the base model and springing for the X6 M60i xDrive, which packs a powerful V-8 engine, offering the sweet spot between performance and efficiency. This model also receives a sport exhaust system, sport differential, M steering wheel, heated and ventilated seats, and a head-up display.
