2009 BMW X6: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The key change for the 2009 BMW X6 is the addition of the 35i and 50i trims. Beyond that light lineup update, the engines, styling, safety equipment, and chassis carry over without major changes.
About the 2009 BMW X6
1st generation (E71, 2008-2014), second model year, pre-refresh.
BMW positioned the X6 as the vehicle that created the “Sports Activity Coupe” idea: a lower-roof, four-seat alternative to a traditional luxury SUV. Its core promise was sports-car flavor with higher seating, all-weather traction, and a dramatic shape. Compared with a more practical X5, the X6 was meant for shoppers who valued performance, design, and exclusivity more than maximum cargo room or rear-seat usefulness.
The 35i serves as the entry version, pairing a 300-hp twin-turbo six-cylinder engine with all-wheel drive, leather upholstery, and adaptive xenon headlights. The flagship 50i adds a 400-hp twin-turbo V8, navigation, and more supportive 20-way power front seats.
What changed, by category
2009 BMW X6 specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 6-Cyl, Twin Turbo, 3.0L | V8, Twin Turbo, 4.4 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive & Steptronic | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive & Steptronic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 15 mpg | 12 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 20 mpg | 18 mpg |
| Horsepower | 300 hp | 400 hp |
| Torque | 300 lb-ft | 450 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 6000 lb | 6000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 59.7 cu-ft | 59.7 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 35.9 in | 35.9 in |
| Seats | 4 | 4 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||
| Alarm System | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| Power Moonroof | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Remote Start | ||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2009 BMW X6 compared with the 2008 model?
The 35i and 50i trims joined the X6 lineup for 2009. Otherwise, it was a quiet year with no meaningful changes to the engines, styling, safety equipment, technology, or chassis.
Was the 2009 BMW X6 redesigned?
No, the 2009 BMW X6 was not redesigned. It was the second model year of the first-generation X6 and remained in its pre-refresh form.
What engines are in the 2009 BMW X6?
The 2009 X6 35i has a 300-hp twin-turbo 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine, while the 50i has a 400-hp twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8. Both use a six-speed automatic transmission.
Does every 2009 BMW X6 have all-wheel drive?
Yes, every 2009 BMW X6 has BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system and Dynamic Performance Control, which helps distribute power for better cornering grip.
What is the main difference between the 2009 X6 35i and 50i?
The main difference is the engine: the 35i uses a 300-hp twin-turbo six-cylinder, while the 50i uses a 400-hp twin-turbo V8. The 50i also has navigation and 20-way power front seats as standard equipment.