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X marks the spot in Detroit

Whatever you think of the styling of the BMW X6, there's no denying it grabs attention, and that is just what BMW hopes it will do at the North American International Auto Show next week in Detroit. This show marks the world debut of the production-ready X6, which was first seen as a concept car at last year's Frankfurt show.

Based on the same platform as BMW's X5, the X6 has the high-heeled stance of an SUV but its steeply sloping roofline is much more like that of a coupé. Inside, the X6's dash is much like the X5's, but rear seat space and luggage capacity are more limited, and the X6 is strictly a four-seater.

Just as important as the styling is the new V8 engine BMW is using for the first time in the X6. This twin-turbo 4.4-litre V8 replaces the naturally aspirated 4.8-litre seen in other models and packs 400bhp and 450lb.ft of mid-rev oomph to see the X6 xDrive 50i model go from 0-62mph in 5.3 seconds and head on to 150mph.

There will also be a twin-turbo 3.0-litre petrol version of the X6, as well as diesel-engined models. All X6 versions use BMW's latest four-wheel drive technology, which apportions power more effectively to whichever wheel can use it best.

Prices for the X6 in the UK will be announced nearer the car going in sale in April, but expect it to start at £43,000.

Alisdair Suttie

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