Winning combination

GERMAN automotive maker BMW has produced more than its fair share of stylish and successful vehicles but the 2011 X6 35i really is something special.

When I first saw the marque I was amazed at how much different it looks from the X5. It’s sleeker, less boxy and, in my opinion, looks more like a 5Series on steroids!

BMW says this model is the world’s first sports activity coupe.

Above the belt it could easily be mistaken for a coupe or sedan but, below, it’s all SUV – purpose-built for off-road action. This combination is hit or miss with critics and, while some love it (myself included), others have opined it looks mismatched.

What I love about the X6 is that it combines the best of both worlds, you get all the stability and support of an SUV with the added bonus of a sleek and aerodynamic body.

Once inside the cockpit, it feels like you’ve been transported into the future … a very comfortable future.

All of the controls are clearly laid out and simple to use. You can adjust the cabin’s temperature via the control panel on the centre stack and can even fine-tune the airflow coming from individual vents. This ensures that all passengers are at their preferred temperature and everyone can enjoy the ride.

As for onboard gadgets, you will not be disappointed. The X6 has almost every doohickey and thingamabob you could imagine and, what’s more, the sound system rivals many of Bahrain’s top night clubs. Selecting radio stations or CDs can be done via the iDrive knob or the steering wheel controls.

Under the bonnet, the 3-litre engine gives this SUV as much presence off-road as on the highway. Thanks to the 6-speed automatic transmission and Adaptive Transmission Control with sport and steptronic manual shift modes, gear changes are quick, efficient and simple.

Thanks to a nifty little feature called Dynamic Performance Control, this SUV handles much better than other models of the same size and weight. This feature effectively interfaces with the stability control system and delivers a powerful and commanding drive that, in my opinion, puts several sports cars to shame.

I love driving manual cars because I feel that they give the driver greater control and make you feel more connected to the vehicle. In the X6 you can effortlessly switch from manual to automatic and shifting gears is a doddle because of the paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel.

The X6 also comes with a host of standard safety equipment, including  front, side and curtain airbags, front and rear sonar parking assist, satellite navigation as well as a range of stability and performance-tuned traction control.

Yes, the BMW X6 may look like two different vehicles stuck together but they’re both equally cool and, in my opinion, it’s a winning combination!

Prices start from BD34,000. For further information contact the Euro Motors showroom on 17750750.