The BMW X6 is a large premium SUV with a twist – it mixes off-roader hardware and dimensions with a dose of coupe styling, creating a distinctive crossover with some real streetside swagger. Just remember that fashionably plunging roofline restricts headroom and luggage space compared with the BMW X5 sister car, however.

Incredibly, this pioneering type of SUV – dubbed Sports Activity Coupe by BMW – has been around for three generations, and the latest X6 has spawned a series of copycat rivals since it first launched in 2008. So if you’re thinking of buying one, you might like to consider our reviews of the Audi Q8, Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe, Porsche Cayenne Coupe or Range Rover Velar before you commit.

All these cars mimic the X6’s pioneering silhouette. You get five doors, that upright stance and raised driving position of any full-size SUV, plus some remarkably sporty underpinnings to justify the athletic wardrobe.

There’s a simple choice of engines in the new BMW X6: pick from a standard six-cylinder petrol or diesel motor, with the possibility to upgrade each to a more powerful, M-badged high-performance derivative. Every version comes with all-wheel drive, badged xDrive in BMWspeak, for imperious traction, no matter the weather outside.

The starter model is the X6 xDrive30d, and this 265hp diesel model is set to be the most popular model. It’s no slouch, dispatching the 0-62mph benchmark sprint in just 6.5 seconds. If you want more punch, or are nervous about investing in a diesel SUV, the xDrive 40i petrol entry-level model develops a brawny 340hp and will lop a full second off that 0-62mph time.

For around £15,000 more, buyers can trade up to the range-topping BMW X6 M50d or M50i models. That M badge is the mark of BMW M division, the high-performance department in Munich also responsible for the likes of the M3 and M5 sports saloons – and explains why power outputs climb to 400hp and 530hp, respectively. Make no mistake, these are seriously fast SUVs, and the M50i is capable of outsprinting many junior Porsche sports cars.

UK buyers can choose Sport, M Sport or M Performance trim levels, each adding more equipment and styling accoutrements. Just remember that all BMW X6 models are well equipped straight out of the box, coming with 19-inch alloy wheels, eight-speed automatic transmission, intelligent LED headlamps, air suspension and leather upholstery among the highlights of the standard equipment.

If you are considering one, it’s worth bearing in mind that 2023 sees a fairly significant facelift. There’s new styling and an updated interior, plus revised engines with improved performance and efficiency.

Read on for the full BMW X6 SUV review. It you’d like to find out how we reviewed the X6, head over to our how we test cars page.