The BMW is a highly specialized alternative to the X5. BMW stylists replaced the wagon-like backend and third row seat with a sharply raked fastback profile. The result defies categorization. The X6 has the all-wheel-drive and tall stance of an SUV, but little of the utility. Inside there is seating for four and a shallow storage area in the hatch. The X6 comes with a variety of powertrains ranging from the six-cylinder XDrive35i to the X6 M which is powered by a 555-bhp V8. BMW even offers a hybrid version, which pairs a V8 with an electric drive system, boosting fuel economy from 14/20 (xDrive50i) to 17/19. Neither of which come close to the 16/23 MPG rating of the six cylinder. Like other BMW vehicles, the X6 has a long list of technological features. Prices range from about $60,000 to over $90,000.

The xDrive35i and xDrive50i models switch to an eight-speed automatic.