The BMW X6 (F16) 35i xDrive Steptronic, produced from 2014 to 2018, represents a mid-range offering within the second generation of BMW’s Sports Activity Coupe. Positioned between the entry-level xDrive28i and the higher-performance xDrive50i, the 35i aimed to balance performance, luxury, and fuel efficiency for the North American market, where the X6 found significant success. This variant combined a turbocharged inline-six engine with BMW’s eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission and the xDrive all-wheel-drive system, creating a versatile vehicle suited for both daily driving and spirited performance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | X6 |
| Generation | X6 (F16) |
| Type (Engine) | 35i (306 Hp) xDrive Steptronic |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.3-11.4 l/100 km (20.8 – 20.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.9-7.0 l/100 km (34.1 – 33.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.5-8.6 l/100 km (27.7 – 27.4 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 198-200 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 240 km/h (149.13 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.6 kg/Hp, 151.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm, 197.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 306 Hp @ 5800-6400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 102.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 1200-5000 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 1200-5000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | N55B30A |
| Engine displacement | 2979 cm3 (181.79 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 89.6 mm (3.53 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-power turbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10.3 l (10.88 US qt | 9.06 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2025 kg (4464.36 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2740 kg (6040.67 lbs.) |
| Max load | 715 kg (1576.31 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 550 l (19.42 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1525 l (53.85 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 85 l (22.45 US gal | 18.7 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2700 kg (5952.48 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 140 kg (308.65 lbs.) |
| Length | 4909 mm (193.27 in.) |
| Width | 1989 mm (78.31 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2170 mm (85.43 in.) |
| Height | 1702 mm (67.01 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2933 mm (115.47 in.) |
| Front track | 1640 mm (64.57 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1706 mm (67.17 in.) |
| Front overhang | 890 mm (35.04 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1086 mm (42.76 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 212 mm (8.35 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.34 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.8 m (41.99 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 25.0° |
| Departure angle | 22.5° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 20.0° |
| Wading depth | 500 mm (19.69 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission Steptronic |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 255/50 R19; 285/45 R19; 275/40 R20; 315/35 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 9J x 19; 10J x 19; 10J x 20; 11J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the X6 35i is BMW’s N55B30A, a 3.0-liter inline-six engine. This engine is a direct descendant of the N54, but replaces the N54’s piezoelectric fuel injectors with more conventional solenoid injectors, improving long-term reliability. The N55 utilizes direct injection, a twin-scroll turbocharger, and Double-VANOS variable valve timing for both intake and exhaust camshafts. These features contribute to a broad torque curve and responsive power delivery. The engine produces 306 horsepower at 5800-6400 rpm and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque between 1200 and 5000 rpm. The engine is longitudinally mounted at the front of the vehicle. Paired with the N55 is the ZF 8HP70 eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission. This transmission is known for its smooth shifts and efficiency, offering both automatic and manual shift modes. The xDrive all-wheel-drive system distributes power between the front and rear axles as needed, enhancing traction and stability.
Driving Characteristics
The X6 35i offers a comfortable and capable driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as the xDrive50i, the 35i provides ample power for everyday driving and highway passing. The eight-speed automatic transmission is well-tuned, providing quick and seamless gear changes. The xDrive system ensures confident handling in various weather conditions. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 6.1 seconds. The gear ratios are optimized for a balance of acceleration and fuel economy. Compared to the xDrive28i, the 35i offers a noticeable performance upgrade, while remaining more fuel-efficient than the larger, more powerful xDrive50i.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The X6 35i came standard with a generous array of features, including leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory, a panoramic sunroof, automatic climate control, and a premium sound system. Standard exterior features included xenon headlights, 19-inch alloy wheels, and power-folding mirrors. Optional extras included upgraded leather, a head-up display, active steering, and a suite of driver-assistance features such as lane departure warning and blind-spot monitoring. Interior trim options ranged from wood veneers to aluminum accents, allowing buyers to personalize the cabin to their preferences.
Chassis & Braking
The X6 35i features a double-wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and precise handling. The suspension is tuned to balance comfort and control, offering a stable platform for spirited driving. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at all four corners, providing ample stopping power. The X6 35i also incorporates BMW’s Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system, which helps to maintain stability during cornering and emergency maneuvers.
Market Reception & Comparison
The X6 35i was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its blend of performance, luxury, and practicality. Reviewers noted the engine’s strong torque output and the transmission’s smooth operation. Compared to the xDrive28i, the 35i offered a significant performance boost, making it a more appealing option for drivers who prioritized acceleration and responsiveness. However, the xDrive50i offered even greater performance, albeit at a higher price point and with reduced fuel economy. Fuel economy figures averaged around 27.7 mpg combined, making it reasonably efficient for a vehicle of its size and performance.
Legacy
The N55 engine, found in the X6 35i, has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain. While some issues with oil leaks and fuel injectors have been reported, these are generally not widespread. The ZF 8HP70 transmission is also known for its durability. Today, the F16 X6 35i represents a good value on the used car market, offering a luxurious and capable SUV at a more affordable price point than newer models. Its blend of performance, comfort, and technology continues to make it an attractive option for buyers seeking a versatile and stylish SUV.
