We have seen several sets of spy photos of what can be interpreted as a BMW X6 ///M over the last month. Originally it was thought that it would feature an over boosted version of the Twin Turbo V8 in the xDrive50i as the source of wheel spinning power.
Indications now are that these test mules could be featuring a advanced hybrid system designed under BMW’s F1 program, a Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS). This is an different system to the previous hybrid X6 (non-///M) we had featured which will utilize the system jointly developed with MB, GM and Chrysler.
Not major news by any account but the name change of the X3 3.0si has been officially confirmed. As we mentioned here several months back BMW will be readjusting their naming schemes due upcoming regulations. So following the same rules as the X6 in naming the X3 will follow as is the X5 xDrive35.
This still leaves us wondering what the new name of the upcoming “Z” will be if there is more than one engine version.Is it possible that if a 4 cylinder engine is an option it would be the Z4 and if it is a 6 it would be the Z6? We will let you know as soon as we hear!
Update
No sooner was this written it was brought to our attention that BMW has already given us a clue to the possible naming game of the next Z4, sDrive.
In addition to a more performance oriented X5, BMW has begun testing a similar version of the recently released X6.
It appears to feature a beefier front and the typical 4 tip exhaust featured on //M models. There is also tape on the side of the front fender where the “gills” would be on an //M. Our sources have indicated BMW has no intention of launching an //M SAV, though things may change.
If past BMW projects like this are any indication this SAV will have a stiffer suspension, wider tires larger brakes and of course more power!
What this performance X6 version testing in California is really all about is anyone’s guess at this point.
Wait, that is not the only version of X6 that was testing in the South West.
Though the X6 hybrid was revealed as a concept vehicle a while back we recently have not seen or heard much more about it. Until now! Chaz, one of our readers happen to snap some photos of a few different prototypes and graciously provided us with them. In the photos you can see one large chop shop mutant version of the front hood bulge and the other with a more production ready hood.
He was also able to snap a photo of the MB M class with a similar system, notice the HEV tag on the side is that internal code or a new label for Hybrid?
These models could utilize a two-mode hybrid system, much like the current GM offerings (Tahoe) on the roads decked out with large HYBRID lettering on all sides so that everyone knows your SUV is a hybrid.
The two-mode hybrid system is the product of a joint development program between GM, Daimler, Chrysler, and BMW that began a few years ago. The technology originally was designed for public transportation in city buses utilizing a two-mode hybrid transmission produced by Allison.
Last month we broke the news to the world that there was a new iDrive on the horizon for most of vehicles in the BMW lineup. This was met with some skepticism. As sources have continued to verify it there is very little doubt that it will indeed happen sooner than later.
What we did not know was the total package. One of our sources indicated that the car would have a hard disk and a system from Harmon Becker but we were unable to confirm this information at that time. Time has rolled on and our good friend, Jonathan Spira, has confirmed some of the same information. He has acquired information that essentially has spilled the beans on much of the up coming iDrive.
We still are a bit puzzled by the hard drive allotment; 10GB for a phone book? All in all this sounds to be a much improved system when you also consider the fact it will also feature the new controller. As we know all too well sources sometimes give you bits and pieces of information and you have to sift through them, we commend this effort and can at least agree that the system will feature a hard disk; we know this from the interior of the F01 7 series as there is only one slot! The details may still not be finalized and changes are happening regularly so the system we will eventually see may be a bit different. Information we have obtained indicates that there will be a multimedia showing of the new iDrive around the launch of the F01/02 on 07.07.08.
BMW recently announced the introduction of MyInfo for the US market. You can view the release info here. This video shows the actual concept in action. It appears to be very user friendly and eliminates the need to use the car to input information as long as it is entered remotely prior to the actual drive. Should make it easier for those who still cannot seem to figure out iDrive.
As we discussed several weeks back BMW will begin to roll out more and more online features over the course of the next few years. This is step one for the US and will be launched in the 2008 X6. Most models will feature this option as of model year 2009.
This service has been active for many countries already, the US is just late to the show.
CONNECT YOUR DRIVE: BMW ADDS NEW “MYINFO” SERVICE FROM BMW ASSIST(TM) POWERED BY GOOGLE MAPS(TM)
Navigation systems have become even easier, faster and more convenient to use with the introduction of “MyInfo”. This latest addition to the BMW Assist Safety Plan allows subscribers to send business locations and street addresses and their associated phone numbers found in Google Maps(TM), an innovative online mapping service, from the comfort of their home or office directly to their BMW.
It’s nice to see our friends at Jalopnik get into the press junket fun. It’s a solid review of what has to be (for better or worse) BMW’s most ridiculous vehicle made to date.
The 2009 BMW X6 isn’t great on a racetrack. This thought occurs during my third lap when I realize — the throttle wide open, exiting a corner at 100mph — this may not be the best sports car out there. My next thought is “But this is a 4,993lbs SUV.” And that’s the point where you realize what we have here is something entirely new.
Autoshows are always experiences in one form or another. The highlight of the day today was Mini competing with BMW for the longest car name; the John Cooper Works Mini Clubman S vs. the BMW X6xdrive50i. The Mini wins hands down!
On a more serious note: as we reported a few days ago BMW introduced the CS Concept to us here in the states at the show. The CS is longer than most cars available excluding a Maybach or two and it only seats only 4 (sounds like another BMW product with an X and a 6 in the name). In person the car shows a lot of wear and tear; some paint chips, swirls in the paint, glass and metal trim. It was disappointing because the paint was one of the most unique approaches to paint color in many years.
Needless to say the X6 is a hefty vehicle in real life, it is very stout and aggressive. The wheels are massive, the lines are bold and it just looks mean! One thing that was apparent was that this machine was built because BMW wanted to build it and prove to the world that it could be built. With that said; what is the point of it? It looks to be designed with driving in mind and little care for utility (the main reason it can not be called an SUV).
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We believe in the old school BMW ownership experience. We believe in garage nights with a six pack and some friends. We believe in 2002s, in E30 M3s and E34 540s with the 6 speed. We believe in progress in both design and engineering but we haven't lost sight of what made the brand and its products great all those years ago. And yes, we believe in the manual transmission.
We long for the days of the wave and for the days of roll-up windows. Yet we love the gadgets on the inside and the xenons on the outside.
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Sections: //M\\, Concept, E71 X6, In the Press, Motorsport, Spy photos Jul 25th, 2008 No Comments 
