At BMW, all off-road models have the X in their model designation. With their all-wheel drive, they are well suited as towing and towing vehicles. For our test boat, a Yamarin 76DC weighing around 2000 kg plus trailer (2650 kg in total), we chose the X6 xDrive 40d.
This is a sports utility vehicle (SUV) measuring 4.88 metres long and just under 2 metres wide. There are four seats in the interior as standard, with five available for an extra charge. During our journeys, most of the seats were occupied; nobody could complain about a lack of space. The seats are sporty and firm with good lateral support, but without being uncomfortable on long journeys.
According to the data sheet, the boot capacity is 570 litres, with the rear seat bench folded down it is even 1450 litres. The travelling and test equipment of three editors and a photographer for a week just fitted into the boot. We particularly noticed the high loading sill when loading the heavy test box. On the other hand, fitting the detachable towbar is quick and easy thanks to the raised rear.
The maximum towing capacity of the X6 is 2700 kg; if you want to tow up to 3500 kg, you need the levelling system with air suspension for the rear axle, which only comes as standard on the top models xDrive50i and M50d. For all others, this costs 790 euros extra. An optional reversing camera, which has an assistant in the submenu, helps when coupling up. Behind the latter is the zoom with steering wheel position-dependent guidance lines to the ball head for easier manoeuvring.
The trailer detection, and therefore the deactivation of the rear parking aid with distance warning, works via the 13-pin plug. When towing, this connection is disconnected to prevent a short circuit on the towing vehicle. Consequence: A continuous beeping sound is heard when reversing, which can be switched off by switching off the PDC including reversing camera.
The X6 feels at home on the motorway with the 8-speed automatic transmission. The 306 hp and 600 Nm easily pulled the car and trailer up every incline at the permitted 80 km/h. On the more than 3000 km test route, we were unable to find any shortcomings in terms of performance or handling.
TECHNICAL DATA
Manufacturer:BMW
Type:X6 xDrive 40d
Length: 4,88 m
Width without/with mirror: 1,98/2,2 m
boot volume:570/1450 l
Unladen weight:2185 kg
permissible total weight: 2710 kg
Tank:85 l
Motorisation:245-407 PS
Test engine:Diesel 306PS
max. trailer load: 3500 kg
Test car price:from € 68 200
