BMW released details about the changes to the X6 crossover. The 2013 model gets light-emitting diodes front and rear, an optional third-row bench seat and choices in engine power, leather and wheel size.
Upgraded models will sport LED headlights up front with BMW's signature luminous rings. The lights are adaptive, which means they'll angle around corners, and they are accented by smaller lights. In the rear, newly designed taillights are equipped with LEDs and emphasize the width of the vehicle. According to BMW they create the brand's hallmark night design as a glowing light mass.
Nevada leather is standard and is available in black or red. Customers can upgrade to nappa leather, which also comes in white. Trunk space measures 25.6 cubic feet with the seats up and almost 60 cubic feet when they're down. A three-seat rear bench is optional, pushing passenger capacity to five.
Two models will continue to be available in the United States, the X6 xDrive50i with a 400-hp twin-turbo V8, and the xDrive35i with the 300-hp inline six-cylinder engine. An eight-speed automatic transmission is standard on both.
Those looking for a few more ponies can opt for the M Performance package, not to be confused with the M Performance line. This includes an upgrade of 15 hp and 30 lb-ft of torque in the six-cylinder model and 40 hp and 30 lb-ft for the V8. The Performance package also adds 20-inch wheels, black chrome exhaust tips, stainless-steel pedals and a few other trim bits.
If that still isn't enough, buyers can opt for the X6M, with 555 hp and a six-speed automatic.
BMW has been keeping busy refreshing its lineup, first with the 3 and 5 Series, and now its the X6s turn. But the new 2013 X6 "Sport Activity Coupe" receives only minor updates compared to its all-new counterparts.
For starters, the X6 receives minor touch-ups to its front fascia that brings its version of BMW's signature kidney grille more in line with the mugs on the new 3 and 5 Series models. Available adaptive LED headlights now can be had over the standard Xenon units. BMW's familiar twin headlight treatment within the housing also appears on the new X6 and its foglights are now set in matte finish surrounds. Out back, the X6's taillights also receive the LED treatment and are housed in larger enclosures that stretch out to the edges of the vehicle.
An array of exterior paint color choices are available, with two non-metallic and nine metallic colors such as Marrakesh Brown metallic to choose from. A new 19-inch alloy wheel has been added to the mix and comes as standard equipment on the xDrive 50i. While nothing much has changed in the cabin, new leather upholstery options are available if desired and a three-seat bench is available as an option.
As before, the 2013 X6 is available with BMW's tried and true 300-hp 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline six and 400-hp 4.4-liter twin-turbo V-8. Check off the M Performance package option and the 3.0-liter gets bumped up to 315 hp and 330 lb-ft while the 4.4-liter is boosted to 440-hp and 480 lb-ft.
Cosmetic upgrades for the M Performance Package include black chrome exhaust tips, stainless steel pedals, 20-inch wheels, and a Carbon Black metallic paint option. All engines are mated to eight-speed automatic gearboxes. The X6 M carries on largely unchanged for 2013, with its 555-horsepower V-8 and six-speed automatic transmission.
BMW says it has sold more than 150,000 X6s worldwide since its launch three years ago, with 20,000 of those in the States -- not bad for such a polarizing vehicle. Expect to see the 2013 X6 in showrooms this spring.
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