BMW is preparing to release an all-new X6 Sports Activity Coupé in 2008.

The new all-wheel drive coupé will be powered by a new V8 engine, which has a 4.4-litre capacity producing 600 Nm of torque and will be known as the X6 xDrive50i. It is the most powerful engine yet seen in a BMW X model.

The BMW 225 kW Twin Turbo straight-six petrol engine will also be available in the new X6 xDrive35i, along with the Variable Twin Turbo 3.0-litre diesel in the X6 xDrive35d.

The first images of the brand new BMW X6 have also been revealed, showing it as a faithful reproduction of the Concept X6 show car which made its Southern Hemisphere debut at the Sydney Motor Show in October, following its international reveal at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

The BMW X6 offers an innovative view of the future of large coupés, melding the style and elegance traditionally expected from BMW coupés with the sporting, dynamic and sure-footed abilities of a large BMW Sports Activity Vehicle.

Individual and extravagant looks have been bestowed upon the new BMW X6. It has a strong, striking frontal appearance complete with large air intakes, while the steeply raked greenhouse emphasises its performance. The body curves in a muscular manner over the wheels, in an expression of poise, stability and vigour.

The BMW X6 enjoys classic coupé proportions, generous, convex-concave surfaces, and a sweeping roofline merging into the powerful rear end.

The BMW X6 comes as standard with BMW’s intelligent xDrive all-wheel drive technology and is the first vehicle in the world to offer Dynamic Performance Control for unique agility, tracking stability, precision and traction in all conditions.

While xDrive ensures the variable distribution of drive power between the front and rear axles (normally a 40:60 split front to rear), Dynamic Performance Control, varies torque split between the two rear wheels. This maintains a superior stabilising function even if there is a sudden load change caused by a swerve or if the driver lifts off mid corner. The BMW X6 is the first vehicle in the world to offer such a stabilising effect independent of engine load and drive power.

The newly developed top-of-the-range Twin Turbo technology petrol powered V8 engine uses direct petrol injection (High Precision Injection) technology, as seen in the 335i engine available across the 3 Series models range in Australia.

The new motor is the world’s first eight-cylinder petrol engine with the turbo-charger and catalytic converters housed in the V-section between the two rows of cylinders. In addition to compact dimensions, the layout cuts pressure losses on the intake and exhaust side.

With a 4,395 cc capacity and output of 300 kW between 5,500 rpm and 6,400 rpm, the V8 delivers peak torque of 600 Nm from 1,750 rpm –4,500 rpm. This makes it the most efficient engine in its class, outperforming ULEV II and EU5 emission standards, a further indication of the formidable expertise of BMW engineers. Further underlining the success of the BMW EfficientDynamics programme are the performance figures. The X6 xDrive50i accelerates to 100 km/h in just 5.4 seconds yet uses only 12.5l of fuel per 100 km on the EU cycle.

The X6 xDrive35i develops 225 kW of power from 5,800 rpm – 6,250 rpm with maximum torque of 400 Nm available between a very low 1,300 rpm all the way to 5,000 rpm. Off the line gusto ensures the X6 xDrive35i reaches 100 km/h in a rapid 6.7 seconds, while fuel consumption is limited to 10.9l/100 km.

The amazing 210 kW 3.0-litre Variable Twin Turbo diesel model boasts third generation common rail fuel injection. The 2,993 cc straight six-cylinder engine delivers its peak power at 4,400 rpm and its muscular torque output reaches its 580 Nm zenith across a broad plateau stretching from 1,750 rpm – 2,250 rpm. This translates into off-the-line acceleration that reaches 100 km/h in 6.9 seconds. In the combined EU cycle test the X6 xDrive35d consumes just 8.3 litres/100 km.

Transmitting the power for the Twin Turbo six and V8 engines is a six-speed automatic transmission with optimised gearshift dynamics giving fast gearshifts with shift comfort as well as saving fuel via a quick to lock-up clutch. A further delight for drivers are a set of gearshift paddles mounted on the steering wheel as standard.

The safety roster includes three-point inertia-reel seat belts on all seats, frontal and side airbags as well as side head airbags and crash-activated headrestraints at the front. Bi-xenon dual headlights including a daytime light function, foglamps, two-stage brake lights and runflat safety tyres on 19-inch light alloy rims all come as standard.

The innovative body and interior concept provides for a large, high opening tailgate for ease of loading. Boot space ranges from 570-litres with all seats filled to 1,450-litres with the rear seats folded.

Inside, a high-quality, sophisticated interior has a notably sporty and luxurious ambience, with four seats. The rear seat height of 944 mm guarantees supreme comfort and convenience even for tall passengers.

As ever, the BMW X6 is complemented by an impressive array of high-technology features, some of which may be specified by the customer (Australian specifications will be announced closer to launch). These include Adaptive Drive (anti-roll and adaptive dampers), Active Steering, Head-Up Display, Adaptive Headlights, Cornering Lights, High-Beam Assistant and cruise control with brake function.

For the additional comfort and convenience of customers there is also a wide choice of innovative entertainment options, in addition to BMW iDrive with personalised favourite buttons, an MP3- compatible CD-player, and an AUX-in feature as standard. A USB socket, multi-channel audio system, rear-mounted DVD system, four-zone automatic air conditioning, active seat ventilation, back-up camera, navigation systems, BMW TeleAssist are all available.