BMW X6 Production Version Debuts at NAIAS

The not-so-elusive BMW X6 was officially unveiled to the United States at the North American International Auto Show. Dubbed a "Sport Activity Coupe," the X6 combines curvy sedan-like styling with the raised ride height and xDrive all-wheel drive system of BMW's X-series vehicles. The expressive styling and 21" wheels help to mask the X6' size at first glance. A new all-aluminum 4.4 liter twin-turbo V8 produces 400 horsepower and uses direct gasoline injection. BMW claims a 0-60 time of under five and a half seconds. A 300-horsepower 3.0 liter twin-turbo straight six is also available.

To improve its sporting characteristics, the X6 features the Dynamic Performance Control chassis control system, an outgrowth of xDrive which varies power front to rear and side to side to maintain stability and traction.

In keeping with the overwhelming environmental theme of this year's Detroit show, BMW also unveiled the ActiveHybrid concept. This X6-based hybrid-electric uses the two-mode active-transmission hybrid system that was jointly developed with GM and DaimlerChrysler.