“One of the least intuitive navigation systems to program that I have used and programming it by voice only works about one in 5 times.”
2015 BMW X6: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 13, 2026
The 2015 BMW X6 is a full redesign and the first year of the second-generation F16 model. Its biggest change is the all-new body and cabin, joined by a lighter structure, upgraded technology, a new rear-wheel-drive trim, and a stronger V8.
About the 2015 BMW X6
2nd generation X6 (F16), first year of the redesign.
BMW positions the X6 as a Sports Activity Coupe: a luxury SUV with the higher seating position and utility of an X model, but a lower roofline and a stronger on-road, sporty feel than the boxier X5. The appeal is style and driving character more than maximum cargo space. For most shoppers, the X6 is the image-forward BMW SUV for people who want strong engines, a dramatic shape, and BMW road manners in one package.
The lineup spans the rear-wheel-drive sDrive35i, the all-wheel-drive xDrive35i, and the more powerful xDrive50i. Both 35i models use a 300-hp turbo six, while the xDrive50i has a 445-hp twin-turbo V8, keyless entry, a rearview camera, and multi-contour leather seats. Every trim has a 10.2-inch center display with navigation and a digital instrument cluster.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
The rear-wheel-drive sDrive35i joined the lineup as the first X6 without all-wheel drive. The xDrive50i's twin-turbo V8 increased from 400 to 445 horsepower and from 450 to 480 lb-ft of torque.
Styling
The redesigned X6 received an all-new exterior with a revised front end, more sculpted sides, and updated rear lighting, along with a redesigned cabin.
Safety
A rearview camera became standard on the xDrive50i. Most advanced driver-assistance features remained optional rather than becoming standard across the lineup.
Tech
A 10.2-inch center display, navigation with a touchpad controller, a digital instrument cluster, and smartphone integration became standard across the lineup. The xDrive35i also gained standard satellite radio, while the xDrive50i gained standard keyless entry. Dual-zone climate control moved from standard to optional.
Structural
The new F16 body used more aluminum, thermoplastics, and magnesium, making the X6 about 35 to 55 pounds lighter depending on the model. A 40/20/40 split-folding rear seat improved cargo flexibility, and the redesign brought a standard power tailgate and a larger standard moonroof.
2015 BMW X6 specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 6-Cyl, Turbo, 3.0 Liter | 6-Cyl, Turbo, 3.0 Liter | V8, Twin Turbo, 4.4 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto 8-Spd Spt Steptronic | Auto 8-Spd Spt Steptronic | Auto 8-Spd Spt Steptronic |
| Drivetrain | RWD | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 19 mpg | 18 mpg | 15 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 27 mpg | 26 mpg | 22 mpg |
| Horsepower | 300 hp | 300 hp | 445 hp |
| Torque | 300 lb-ft | 300 lb-ft | 480 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 6000 lb | 6000 lb | 6000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 53.9 cu-ft | 53.9 cu-ft | 53.9 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 37.9 in | 37.9 in | 37.9 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | |||
| Alarm System | |||
| Automatic High Beams | |||
| Blindspot Sensors | |||
| Hill Descent Control | |||
| Lane Departure Warning | |||
| Park Assist | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| LED Headlights | |||
| Power Moonroof | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| Smartphone Interface | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Heated Rear Seats | |||
| Heated Steering Wheel | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |||
| Push-Button Engine Start | |||
| Ventilated Front Seats | |||
Frequently asked questions
Was the 2015 BMW X6 redesigned?
Yes. The 2015 BMW X6 launched the second-generation F16 model with a new body, redesigned cabin, lighter construction, more flexible cargo space, and upgraded displays and navigation.
What changed from the 2014 BMW X6 to the 2015 model?
The 2015 X6 received a complete redesign rather than a minor update. It added a lighter body, a 10.2-inch center display, a digital instrument cluster, a 40/20/40 split rear seat, the rear-wheel-drive sDrive35i, and a more powerful xDrive50i V8.
Did the 2015 BMW X6 add a rear-wheel-drive model?
Yes. The sDrive35i joined the lineup for 2015 as the first rear-wheel-drive X6, using a 300-hp turbocharged six-cylinder engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission.
How powerful is the 2015 BMW X6 xDrive50i?
The 2015 X6 xDrive50i produces 445 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque from its twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8. That is an increase from 400 horsepower and 450 lb-ft in the 2014 model.
What technology became standard on the 2015 BMW X6?
Every 2015 X6 received a 10.2-inch center display, navigation with a touchpad controller, a digital instrument cluster, and smartphone integration. The xDrive35i also gained standard satellite radio, while the xDrive50i gained standard keyless entry and a rearview camera.
2015 BMW X6 Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2015 BMW X6.
4.4
2015 BMW X6
(47 reviews)
“I purchased this car because nothing else looks like it in the market and of course BMW is a great car”
“The BMW X6 is exactly as advertised. I'm very excited to drive the car every day and it fits every requirement. I've received a lot of compliments from all friends on the vehicle and enjoy driving. It's an exhilarating vehicle to say the least, no complaints.”