2009 BMW X6 xDrive35i

Pros

Not a "me too" car - you won't see dozens in traffic and parking lots

Cons

Gas economy a little disappointing - but virtues far outweigh this "con"

Purchased As New

I drove an X5, and then took a drive in the X6. There is a noticeable difference in power between the xDrive3.0i in the X5 and the xDrive3.5i in the X6. No worries about freeway merges or passing - the power is right there, right now. Comfort is amazing. Seats hug you and are very adjustable, having sufficient side bolstering to be very supportive in turns, and just every day slow and go traffic.
Driving characteristics are GREAT. Very sedan like in feel and execution. You just don't feel like you are in a top heavy SUV. You can corner on freeway ramps and except for the excellent visibility provided by all SUV (you sit up high) one easily forgets you are driving an SUV.
I found the iDrive system easy to master. The Bluetooth sync with my cell phone is FANTASTIC - don't know how I lived without it, and really miss this feature when I drive any of my other cars. Rear visibility is not as limited as the angle of the rear window would make you think. BMW has provided enormous side view mirrors, and the parking sensor system is standard. I don't have the rear camera (or the Nav system) but so far have not wished for (or regretted not having) either. I mentioned being a little disappointed by the fuel economy, but probably that's because this is just such an enjoyable car to drive. There is NO real feeling of speed - I had to set the speed warning feature, because the car feels as solid at 80 plus as it does at 55. So, based on the number times the speed warning has "chimed" I think my less than stellar (18 mpg) gas mileage has a lot to do with the "spirited" driving this car invites you into. Nice large trunk area behind the rear seats - which also pull down easily in a 60/40 manner if you have something long to haul. People stop at gas stations and ask about the car. Everyone who has been a passenger loves it. I'm so glad I bought the X6 - has provided much more enjoyment that I ever anticipated in an SUV/Crossover vehicle. Highly recommend to anyone who wants something a little different from the rest of the pack....read morehide

Pros

very easy to handle, Active steering, heads up display makes it more comfortable

Cons

too many blind spots, needs the parking camera assistance!

Purchased As New

Bought in the first week of December 08. It attracts lots of attention! After the first month the communication ( I-Drive)acted up, otherwise fine.The tires are noisy(sport RF). Very comfortable otherwise.

Pros

fantastic looks

Cons

tiring driving in the city

Purchased As New

I own this car for 3 months now and I am deeply satisfied with my choice. Fantastic looks, powerful engine , not for soccer moms, a real driving machine

Its a bit rough to drive it in slow traffic and really comes to life after 50 mph. Rear view camera is a must,.... Bridgestone RF are quite rough, I heard that Pirelli RF are much smoother

Fuel consumption is a small issue, but is my fault .. I love the sound of the engine so I am taking every opportunity to stretch my right foot....read morehide

Pros

Precise steering, nimble, a real drivers car

Cons

Rear visibility is poor

I've owned this car for 7 months/12k miles. First, ignore the comment on poor gas mileage, BMW will tell you (if you ask only) that REGULAR/87 fuel is perfectly fine. My experience: 17.5 mpg/city and I drive the car in a somewhat "sporty" fashion. If you expectation is 20 mpg+ this is not the car for you. Note: On a weeklong trip I averaged 22+ mpg highway so given a 300hp/twin turbo drivetrain I'd say that's very impressive.
Absolutely zero car problems thus far - get the Michelin tires even if that means removing the deplorable Bridgestone Dueler tires - no comparison between the two.
Winter performance: Good to excellent. This is Buffalo and need I say anything about the winter weather. Comparable all wheel performance to Acura MDX (previous car) - almost but not quite as good probably due to the 18" low profile rubber. By the way - the Michelin's (standard) are all season tires.
Seating comfort/position: Near Perfect
Road/cabin noise: Negligible
Options: Heated steering wheel (excellent), fold down rear seats.
Net/net: If you can accept a 4 person ONLY SUV and appreciate the engineering genius of BMW and find 17+MPG around town acceptable you will not find a better car.
Final thought/Safety: Was in a near crash situation on a highway exit, rainy night, poor visbility. Car in front had gotten sidways and forced a 40+ mph evasive manuever on slick roads ........ the X6 was racecar precise allowing me to lock up the brakes due to a panic situation and still produced a controlled, no skid lane change! I am convinced that in most ANY other car there would have been a very different (and unfortunate) outcome....read morehide