X6

Make
BMW
Segment
SUV

BMW popularized the coupe SUV trend with the first-generation X6. Entering a new segment was risky but the gamble paid off and coupe SUVs are more popular than ever with new competitors such as the Mercedes GLE Coupe and Porsche Cayenne Coupe. Now in its third generation, the BMW X6 is about to be refreshed to fight off its newer rivals.

For the first time, our spies have caught BMW testing a prototype of the upcoming X6 facelift. Since development is still at an early stage, no changes have been applied to the exterior yet.

However, spy shots of the upcoming X7 facelift have shown the super-sized SUV sporting a larger grille, reshaped headlights, and tweaked bumpers, so the X6 will likely adopt similar changes.

For the X6 facelift, BMW is focusing on the interior first. Luckily for us, the test driver forgot to cover up the interior when parking, allowing us to get an early look at the updated cabin. The most obvious changes are the new curved displays for the digital instrument cluster and infotainment system, which appear to be inspired by the iX flagship electric SUV. In the iX, the digital display measures 12.3 inches and the infotainment display is 14.9 inches wide.

We can also see the gear shift has been replaced by a small switch and a sticker shows the climate controls are not working, which suggests modifications are being made to the switchgear.

It remains to be seen if there will be any changes under the hood, but it seems unlikely since the current X6 has only been on sale since the 2020 model year. The current X6 is sold with either a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six producing 335 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque or a 4.4-liter V8 rated at 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque. Since development is still at an early stage, we aren't expecting the X6 facelift to debut until next year at the earliest. Before then, we should see some more prototypes undergoing testing showcasing the exterior design changes.