2012 BMW X6: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2012 BMW X6 is the departure of the ActiveHybrid model, leaving the six-cylinder xDrive35i and V8-powered xDrive50i. Those two trims also gain more standard comfort and technology features.
About the 2012 BMW X6
1st generation (E71), late-cycle pre-refresh year
BMW marketed the X6 as a “Sports Activity Coupe,” meaning it was meant to blend SUV ride height and all-weather traction with the lower roof, bolder shape, and sharper road feel of a coupe. Its core appeal was style and performance first: strong turbo power, standard all-wheel drive, and more dramatic looks than a traditional midsize luxury SUV. Most shoppers picked an X6 because they wanted something faster and more fashion-forward than a boxier utility vehicle.
The xDrive35i serves as the more balanced entry point, with a 300-hp turbocharged six-cylinder engine, an 8-speed automatic, all-wheel drive, and added standard lumbar support. The xDrive50i emphasizes performance and cabin equipment with a 400-hp twin-turbo V8, navigation on an 8.8-inch screen, multi-contour front seats, and a standard garage door opener.
What changed, by category
2012 BMW X6 specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 6-Cyl, Turbo, 3.0 Liter | V8, Twin Turbo, 4.4 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto 8-Spd w/Spt Stptrnc | Auto 8-Spd w/Spt Stptrnc |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 16 mpg | 14 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 23 mpg | 20 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 | ||
| Automatic High Beams | ||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| Power Moonroof | ||
| Bluetooth | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| USB Ports | ||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||
| Third Row Seat | ||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||
Frequently asked questions
Was the 2012 BMW X6 redesigned?
No. The 2012 BMW X6 is a modest equipment and lineup update within the first generation, not a redesign. Its basic body and core six-cylinder and V8 engines carry over.
Does the 2012 BMW X6 have a hybrid model?
No. BMW dropped the ActiveHybrid for 2012. The remaining lineup consists of the turbocharged six-cylinder xDrive35i and twin-turbo V8 xDrive50i.
What features became standard on the 2012 BMW X6?
Heated front seats, Bluetooth, a USB audio connection, auto-dimming mirrors, privacy glass, and ambient interior lighting became standard on both remaining 2012 X6 trims. The xDrive35i also gained standard lumbar support, and the xDrive50i gained a standard garage door opener.
Does the 2012 BMW X6 seat four or five people?
The 2012 BMW X6 has a four-seat layout with individual rear seats as its usual setup, but a newly offered rear center seat raises capacity to five.
Is the 2012 BMW X6 much different from the 2011 model?
No. The 2012 X6 is a light update rather than a major change. The ActiveHybrid leaves the lineup, and the remaining trims receive more standard comfort and technology equipment, while their core engines and overall design carry over.