2011 BMW X6: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2011 BMW X6 is a light mechanical update, led by a new 8-speed automatic on both gas-powered trims. It was not redesigned, and the ActiveHybrid largely carried over.
About the 2011 BMW X6
1st generation (E71 X6 / E72 ActiveHybrid, 2008-2014), pre-facelift, fourth model year.
BMW positioned the X6 as the original “Sports Activity Coupe,” a vehicle that trades some SUV practicality for a lower roofline, more dramatic shape, and a sportier road feel. In 2011, its appeal was not maximum cargo room but the mix of all-wheel-drive grip, strong turbo power, elevated seating, and coupe-like styling. Compared with more conventional midsize luxury SUVs, the X6 was the choice for buyers who wanted something bolder and more driver-focused.
The xDrive35i was the core X6, pairing a 300-hp turbocharged six-cylinder engine with all-wheel drive and a four-seat cabin. The xDrive50i was the stronger gas model, with a 400-hp twin-turbo V8 and 20-way front seats. The 480-hp ActiveHybrid served as the technology-focused flagship, with low-speed electric driving, a head-up display, and an upscale leather-trimmed cabin.
What changed, by category
2011 BMW X6 specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 6-Cyl, Twin Turbo, 3.0L | V8, Twin Turbo, 4.4 Liter | V8, Hybrid, Twin Turbo, 4.4 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto 8-Spd, w/Step & SM | Auto 8-Spd, w/Step & SM | Automatic, 7-Spd w/Steptronic & Sport Modes |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Hybrid |
| MPG City | 16 mpg | 14 mpg | 17 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 23 mpg | 20 mpg | 19 mpg |
| Horsepower | 300 hp | 400 hp | 480 hp |
| Torque | 300 lb-ft | 450 lb-ft | 450 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 6000 lb | 6000 lb | 6000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 59.7 cu-ft | 59.7 cu-ft | 59.7 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 35.9 in | 35.9 in | 35.9 in |
| Seats | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | |||
| Alarm System | |||
| Automatic High Beams | |||
| Lane Departure Warning | |||
| Side View Cameras | |||
| Top View Camera | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Auto-Dimming Exterior Mirrors | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| Power Moonroof | |||
| Power Folding Exterior Mirrors | |||
| Privacy Glass | |||
| Side Steps | |||
| Bluetooth | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| Smartphone Interface | |||
| USB Ports | |||
| 4-Zone Automatic Air Conditioning | |||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | |||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Heated Steering Wheel | |||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | |||
| Interior Ambient Lighting | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |||
| Push-Button Engine Start | |||
| Ventilated Front Seats | |||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2011 BMW X6?
The biggest change is the new 8-speed automatic transmission in both gas-powered X6 trims. It helped improve acceleration slightly while also raising fuel economy.
Was the 2011 BMW X6 redesigned?
No, the 2011 BMW X6 was not redesigned. It remained part of the first generation and received a focused mechanical update instead.
How is the 2011 X6 xDrive35i different from the 2010 model?
The 2011 xDrive35i has BMW’s newer turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine, an 8-speed automatic, and a system that recovers energy during braking. Its fuel economy increased from 15/21 to 16/23 mpg city/highway.
Did the 2011 ActiveHybrid X6 receive the same powertrain update as the gas models?
No, the 2011 ActiveHybrid X6 did not receive the gas models’ 8-speed automatic update. It retained its 480-hp hybrid system and 7-speed two-mode hybrid transmission.
Was adaptive cruise control standard on the 2011 BMW X6?
No, adaptive cruise control was optional on the 2011 xDrive35i and xDrive50i. It had been standard on those trims for 2010.