The Good
The 2016 X6 boasts impressive performance with powerful engine options and engaging handling, appealing to emotional buyers craving a sporty drive. Its bold, coupe-like design offers a luxurious and unique aesthetic. Practical advantages include a well-appointed, comfortable cabin, advanced technology features, and available all-wheel drive for varying conditions, providing a sophisticated and confident driving experience.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses for the 2016 X6 include its firm ride quality, which might be uncomfortable for some, and restricted rear visibility due to its sloping roofline. Rear seat headroom is also compromised compared to more traditional SUVs. High maintenance and repair costs, especially for V8 models, and its niche appeal can impact resale value.
2016 BMW X6: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- X6 sDrive35i/xDrive35i: 3.0-liter TwinPower Turbo inline 6-cylinder.
- X6 xDrive50i: 4.4-liter TwinPower Turbo V8.
- X6 M: High-performance 4.4-liter TwinPower Turbo V8.
- Horsepower:
- sDrive35i/xDrive35i: 300 hp @ 5,800-6,400 rpm, 300 lb-ft torque @ 1,200-5,000 rpm.
- xDrive50i: 445 hp @ 5,500-6,000 rpm, 480 lb-ft torque @ 2,000-4,500 rpm.
- X6 M: 567 hp @ 6,000-6,500 rpm, 553 lb-ft torque @ 2,200-5,000 rpm.
- Fuel Economy (EPA estimates, combined city/highway):
- sDrive35i (RWD): 21 MPG (18 city/25 highway).
- xDrive35i (AWD): 20 MPG (18 city/24 highway).
- xDrive50i (AWD): 17 MPG (15 city/21 highway).
- X6 M (AWD): 16 MPG (14 city/19 highway).
- 0-60 MPH Acceleration:
- sDrive35i/xDrive35i: Approximately 6.0 seconds.
- xDrive50i: Approximately 4.6 seconds.
- X6 M: Approximately 4.0 seconds.
- Towing Capacity:
- Up to 6,000 lbs when properly equipped with the factory tow hitch.
- Trim-Level Features:
- sDrive35i/xDrive35i: Standard features include 19-inch wheels, adaptive xenon headlights, LED foglights, power liftgate, rearview camera, front/rear parking sensors, leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, 10-way power heated front seats, iDrive infotainment with 10.2-inch screen, navigation, and a 9-speaker sound system. xDrive models add all-wheel drive.
- xDrive50i: Adds the V8 engine, 20-inch wheels, sport seats, 16-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, quad-zone automatic climate control, and a universal garage door opener.
- X6 M: Includes a more powerful V8, M-specific styling, M Sport suspension, M-specific all-wheel drive, larger brakes, sport exhaust, head-up display, and enhanced interior trim.
2016 BMW X6 Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2016 |
| Make | BMW |
| Model | X6 |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Minivan |
| Category | Standard Sport Utility Vehicle |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | GREER |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 7000 pounds |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 4.4 8 |
| Engine Size | 4.4L |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | - |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2016 BMW X6 Have?
Beyond engine-specific concerns, owners have sometimes reported electrical glitches, such as issues with the iDrive infotainment system, parking sensors, or various sensors causing warning lights. Air suspension components, if equipped, can also be a point of failure over time, leading to costly replacements. Suspension bushings and other wear-and-tear items may require attention as the vehicle ages. Recalls for the 2016 X6, according to the NHTSA, include issues like a crankshaft sensor signal loss that could cause an engine stall (affecting various BMW models), and for the X6 M, a recall for potential driveshaft failure. It's crucial for potential buyers to check specific VINs for outstanding recalls and ensure they have been addressed. Overall, long-term reliability for the X6 is highly dependent on diligent maintenance and, critically, the specific engine variant, with the V8s presenting a higher risk of expensive repairs.
How long will the 2016 BMW X6 last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
For entertainment, a 9-speaker sound system was standard, with a 16-speaker Harman Kardon surround-sound system as a popular upgrade. For audiophiles, an even more premium Bang & Olufsen sound system was available. Rear-seat entertainment systems, featuring dual screens mounted on the front seatbacks, were also offered as an option.
Driver-assistance features were comprehensive, often bundled into packages. The Driver Assistance Plus package included a head-up display, active blind spot detection, lane departure warning, forward collision warning with pedestrian detection, and city collision mitigation. The Parking Assistant package offered automated parallel parking and a surround-view camera system, which provided a top-down view for easier maneuvering. Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality was also available, enhancing long-distance driving comfort and safety.
Standard safety features included a full complement of airbags (front, side, head), anti-lock brakes (ABS), traction control, stability control, and BMW's Active Protection System that prepares the vehicle for an imminent crash. Unfortunately, due to its relatively low volume and luxury vehicle status, the 2016 BMW X6 did not undergo full crash testing by either the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). However, its underlying F15 X5 platform performed well in crash tests, suggesting a high level of occupant protection for the X6.
What Colors Options are Available?
2016 BMW X6 Prices and Market Value
2016 BMW X6 Cost of Ownership
2016 BMW X6 Fuel Efficiency
2016 BMW X6 Safety Rating
NHTSA
2016 BMW X6 Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2016 BMW X6 Compare to Other Minivan?
In terms of performance, the X6 holds its own, especially the xDrive50i and the potent X6 M, offering a sporty, engaging drive that often feels more car-like than SUV. The Porsche Cayenne generally offers sharper handling and a more direct driving feel across its range, while the Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe provides a softer, more comfort-oriented ride. The Range Rover Sport focuses more on rugged capability alongside luxury.
Regarding features, all these vehicles are replete with luxury amenities and advanced technology. The X6's iDrive system is intuitive, but the Mercedes-Benz COMAND system or Porsche's infotainment may offer different user experiences. Interior quality and material choices are excellent across the board, varying mainly in aesthetic preference. Driver-assistance and safety features are comparable among these luxury competitors.
Reliability is a key differentiating factor. The BMW X6, particularly with its V8 engines, can be prone to specific high-cost issues as mentioned previously. The Porsche Cayenne generally has a strong reputation for reliability, though maintenance is still costly. Mercedes-Benz models are typically on par with BMW in terms of potential long-term electrical or mechanical issues. Range Rover Sport, historically, can present higher long-term reliability challenges and cost of ownership.
Price new, these vehicles were all in a similar premium bracket. On the used market, depreciation patterns can vary, but the X6 offers competitive pricing against its direct rivals. For better overall reliability and potentially lower running costs, a Porsche Cayenne V6 might be a stronger alternative, albeit with a less polarizing design. If a more conventional SUV body style is preferred for practicality without sacrificing luxury and some performance, the BMW X5 or Audi Q7 are excellent alternatives. For those who prioritize similar coupe-SUV styling with a focus on ride comfort, the Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe is a direct stylistic competitor.
Final Verdict: Is the 2016 BMW X6 a Good Minivan?
Is it worth buying? Yes, but with significant caveats. It's almost certainly best purchased on the used market, where its substantial depreciation makes it a more accessible luxury performance vehicle. Opting for the xDrive35i trim is generally recommended for better long-term reliability and lower running costs compared to the more problematic N63 V8 in the xDrive50i and X6 M, though the M offers incredible performance. A thorough pre-purchase inspection by a BMW specialist is absolutely essential to uncover any potential costly issues, especially for V8 models. Be prepared for higher-than-average insurance, fuel, and maintenance expenses. For the right buyer, it delivers a unique blend of luxury, style, and sportiness that few vehicles can match.