Used BMW X6 for sale: everything you need to know

The BMW X6 has made a name for itself, pioneering the modern trend for SUV coupes. Now into its third generation, the BMW continues to have plenty of admirers, even if not everyone is convinced by the concept. 

As the origin of the species, the BMW X6 has inspired plenty of imitators to enter what is now a growing marketplace. This means plenty of rivals, with the Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe the closest equivalent. Porsche’s Cayenne Coupe is another strong alternative, with the Audi Q8 a more recent entry to the SUV coupe world. The BMW X5 SUV, on which the BMW X6 is based, contains many of the same ingredients, but offers enhanced practicality.

Should you buy a BMW X6? 

As the first SUV coupe, the BMW X6 has continued to prove itself a leader in a small but growing market. If you like the way it looks, the BMW X6 is a great option.

What makes the BMW X6 so good at its job is BMW’s focus on creating a genuinely sporty driving experience. The fact the BMW X5 is already impressive on the road, by SUV standards, certainly helps. However, the BMW X6 takes things a step further, with weighty and detailed steering, plus the ability to cover tarmac at an alarming rate. Even the ride is not overly firm.

Although the engine range may be limited, all are powerful enough to support the BMW X6’s sporting image. BMW’s standard eight-speed automatic transmission is superb, while the xDrive all-wheel-drive system remains resolutely unflustered. 

BMW has ensured the BMW X6 manages to justify its premium price image, too. Standard equipment levels are high, with adaptive LED headlights and leather upholstery just some of the items included. The cabin of the BMW X6 also feels well-built, with plenty of plush materials and quality trim to deliver a premium experience.

The BMW X6’s curvaceous coupe bodywork does have some limitations, of course. Headroom for rear passengers is reduced compared to the related BMW X5. Boot space is also smaller, albeit still a considerable 580-litres with the rear seats in place – much more than a traditional family hatchback, such as a Ford Focus. 

Although the BMW X6 will not appeal to all drivers, it is very good at what it does. There is a reason BMW has managed to sell more than 400,000 examples since it was first launched. It remains an upmarket and very capable car.

A BMW X6 not for you? We've got 1000s of used cars for sale to suit all budgets and needs.

What's the best used BMW X6 model to buy?

The BMW X6 is so good, you don’t need anything more than the entry-level xDrive30d diesel engine. With 286PS, it’s more than powerful enough, and even this model will hit 62mph in 6.1 seconds. It doesn’t sound too diesel-like, either, and always has enough in reserve.

The petrol-powered xDrive40i is a more convincing alternative than the old non-diesel X6. It’s basically the same engine used in some smaller high-performance BMWs and, with 340PS plus a smooth engine note, it’s a good choice for those who don’t want a diesel. These excellent base engines make the higher output models look a bit unnecessary, however lovely the twin-turbo V8 is in the M50i.

BMW doesn’t bother with ‘un-sporty’ X6 models these days: it’s just Sport or M Sport. You’re fine with Sport, but M Sport for it added visual drama.

Used BMW X6 fuel economy and performance

The BMW X6 can be had with one of four engines, with diesel and petrol equally represented. Other than the performance M50i, all come with mild-hybrid technology to aid fuel economy. BMW’s xDrive all-wheel drive is standard on all models, along with an eight-speed automatic transmission. 

• BMW X6 xDrive30d: The entry-level engine for the BMW X6 is a turbocharged 3.0-litre six-cylinder diesel, producing a sizable 286hp. It can accelerate from 0-62mph in just over six seconds and is also the most economical BMW X6, with an official average of up to 42.8mpg.
• BMW X6 xDrive40d: For a diesel with added heft, the xDrive40d uses a twin-turbocharged version of the 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine. The result is an output of 340hp, with the 0-62mph time ducking beneath six seconds. More power results in a modest decrease in fuel economy: now an average of 39.8mpg.
• BMW X6 xDrive40i: For those who want a petrol engine, the xDrive40i is the starting point in the BMW X6 range. It uses a turbocharged 3.0-litre six-cylinder unit, with 340hp on offer. Although it has mild-hybrid tech, average fuel economy of 31.7mpg places it well short of the diesel duo. This engine was later boosted to 298hp.
• BMW X6 M50i: For maximum BMW X6 performance, the M50i is equipped with a 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged petrol V8. A total of 530hp allows for plenty of pace, with the 0-62mph sprint taking less than five seconds. Best not to think about the 25.2mpg, though, or tax-heavy CO2 emissions of 257g/km.

What used BMW X6 trim levels are available?

The BMW X6 is available with three distinct trim levels to choose from. All are well-equipped to make you feel very well looked after.

• BMW X6 Sport: The entry-level trim level for the BMW X6 is still comprehensive in what it offers. Among the long list of standard equipment are 19-inch alloy wheels, leather upholstery, satellite navigation, LED headlights and a rear-view camera. 
• BMW X6 M Sport: Buyers typically flock to M Sport model which, for the BMW X6, brings 21-inch alloy wheels, aluminium interior trim and an anthracite headlining. Most important of all is the M Sport body kit, along with M badging for the exterior and interior.
• BMW X6 M50i: The range-topping performance model in the BMW X6 range is the M50i. Along with a front grille and badges in a Cerium Grey finish, it also gains sportier suspension and a Harman Kardon sound system.

Used BMW X6 dimensions and boot size

The BMW X6’s exterior dimensions are: 

• Length: 4,935mm
• Width: 2,004mm
• Height: 1,696mm
• Ground clearance: 216mm

The BMW X6’s boot space is:

• 580 litres
• 1,530 litres with rear seats folded

Used BMW X6 road tax

If you're in the market for this generation of BMW X6, the chances are you're braced for some added expense ot enjoy the car. This comes in the form of road tax charged at £180 plus an addition £390 per year for the first five years of the car's life from when it was registered. This is added because the X6 cost more than £40,000 when new.

How much is it to insure a BMW X6? 

Being a powerful, in-your-face SUV coupe may be a big part of the BMW X6’s appeal, but it does it no favours when it comes to insurance. Even the entry level xDrive30d in Sport trim is in insurance group 49, while every other BMW X6 model falls into the highest insurance group 50.

Read our full BMW X6 review