2021 BMW X6: What's New, Specs & Features

Last updated August 4, 2026

2021 BMW X6

The main change for the 2021 BMW X6 is a 48-volt mild-hybrid system for the six-cylinder sDrive40i and xDrive40i. This is otherwise a light update, with standard Android Auto across the lineup and added standard features for the M50i.

Shop 11 in stock at Carvana

About the 2021 BMW X6

3rd generation X6 (G06), second model year after the 2020 redesign.

BMW positions the X6 as a “Sports Activity Coupe,” essentially an X5-sized luxury SUV with a more dramatic roofline and a stronger focus on style and on-road performance feel. The point is not maximum cargo room; it is a bolder look, a more driver-focused cabin, strong turbocharged engines, and the elevated seating position of an SUV without giving up BMW’s sporty character.

The rear-wheel-drive sDrive40i is the simplest version, while the xDrive40i adds all-wheel drive for better traction in poor weather. Both have a 335-hp turbocharged six-cylinder engine, dual 12.3-inch displays, and a panoramic moonroof. The M50i is the performance-focused model, with a 523-hp twin-turbo V8, sharper suspension and brakes, ventilated front seats, and a Harman Kardon sound system.

What changed, by category

Powertrain
The sDrive40i and xDrive40i receive a 48-volt mild-hybrid version of their 335-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine.
Tech and comfort
Android Auto becomes standard on every trim. The M50i also makes remote engine start and ventilated front seats standard.

2021 BMW X6 specs and features by trim

Feature
2021 BMW X6M50i5 in stock
2021 BMW X6sDrive40i1 in stock
2021 BMW X6xDrive40i5 in stock
EngineV8, Twin Turbo, 4.4 Liter6-Cyl, Turbo, 3.0 Liter6-Cyl, Turbo, 3.0 Liter
TransmissionAutomatic, 8-Spd w/Sport & Manual ModesAutomatic, 8-Spd w/Sport & Manual ModesAutomatic, 8-Spd w/Sport & Manual Modes
DrivetrainAWDRWDAWD
Fuel TypeGasGasGas
MPG City16 mpg21 mpg21 mpg
MPG Highway22 mpg26 mpg25 mpg
Horsepower523 hp335 hp335 hp
Torque553 lb-ft331 lb-ft331 lb-ft
Max Towing7200 lb7200 lb7200 lb
Trunk/Cargo45.5 cu-ft45.5 cu-ft45.5 cu-ft
Rear Legroom35.7 in35.7 in35.7 in
Seats555
Doors444
Adaptive Cruise Control
Alarm System
Automatic High Beams
Blindspot Sensors
Hill Descent Control
Lane Departure Warning
Park Assist
Rear View Camera
360 Camera
Alloy Wheels
Fog Lights
LED Headlights
Panorama Moon Roof
Side Steps
Bluetooth
Navigation System
Premium Audio
USB Ports
4-Zone Automatic Air Conditioning
Aluminum Interior Trim
Dual-Zone Climate Control
Heated Front Seats
Heated Steering Wheel
Leather Seats
Memory Driver's Seat
Memory Front Seats
Proximity Keyless Entry
Push-Button Engine Start
Remote Start
Ventilated Front Seats
Wood Interior Trim

How the 2022 BMW X6 compares

The main change for the 2022 BMW X6 is that all-wheel drive is standard across the U.S. lineup after BMW dropped the rear-wheel-drive sDrive40i. Otherwise, this is a light-update year with no redesign or major hardware changes.

Frequently asked questions

What is the biggest change to the 2021 BMW X6?

The biggest change is a 48-volt mild-hybrid system for the six-cylinder sDrive40i and xDrive40i. The 2021 model is not a full redesign.

Does the 2021 BMW X6 have standard Android Auto?

Yes. Android Auto becomes standard across the entire 2021 BMW X6 lineup, alongside Apple CarPlay.

Which 2021 BMW X6 trims have the mild-hybrid system?

The sDrive40i and xDrive40i have the 48-volt mild-hybrid system. Both use a 335-hp turbocharged six-cylinder engine, while the M50i retains its 523-hp twin-turbo V8.

What became standard on the 2021 BMW X6 M50i?

Remote engine start and ventilated front seats become standard on the 2021 M50i. It also gains standard Android Auto with the rest of the lineup.

Is the 2021 BMW X6 redesigned compared with the 2020 model?

No. The 2021 X6 is the second model year of the generation introduced for 2020, so its basic design and overall formula carry over.

2021 BMW X6 Reviews

What owners are saying about the 2021 BMW X6.

4.5
2021 BMW X6
(241 reviews)
5 stars (151)
4 stars (65)
3 stars (16)
2 stars (8)
1 star (1)

About owner reviews

Carvana owner reviews are provided in partnership with Strategic Vision, one of the largest automotive consumer research providers in the U.S. Star ratings are from ranking surveys completed by owners one to six months post-purchase. Comments from owners are optional, but included here when available.

“It is definitely a head turning car if your budget is less than 100K and you need all the luxurious features then this your vehicle. If you feel 340hp is less power then consider X5 M50i with 500+ hp”

PTPrasanth T.
2021 BMW X6 xDrive40i
No rating

“Check out the throttle response especially after braking. It's not consistent at all. Impossible to be smooth & very annoying. Plus car kinda looks like a hog when viewed from the side.”

TKTodd K.
2021 BMW X6 M50i
No rating

“Be aware of lower interior quality compared to the previous models. Also, lack of wireless charging due to factory shortage. Also seat massage is not that good anymore”

PHPayam H.
2021 BMW X6 M50i