Boasting 300 kW and 600 Nm of torque from its 4.4-litres, it is the new pinnacle performance engine in the BMW range*.

The V8 engine is a technological tour-de-force that combines a mighty output with 'frugalish' fuel consumption and lower emissions, thanks to the application of the very latest direct petrol injection, in concert with a pair of turbochargers, arranged one per cylinder bank, and located within the engine vee.

Direct petrol injection banishes turbo lag, and the low inertia turbines spool up quickly to their 175,000 rpm peak, to turn waste gases into additional thrust. The result is instantaneous acceleration and a very rapid and smooth rise in revs.

With output that is closer to V12 performance levels, the X6 xDrive50i charges from 0-100 km/h in 5.4 seconds, thanks to a peak of 600 Nm of torque available across a very broad engine speed range (1,750 rpm to 4,500 rpm). Peak power is delivered at 5,500 rpm.

The new BMW X6 xDrive50i is fitted as standard with BMW’s intelligent xDrive for variable distribution of drive power between the front and rear axle.

The X6 Sports Activity Coupé range is the first in the world to feature BMW Dynamic Performance Control, fitted as standard, for variable distribution of drive forces between both rear wheels. This means that even when cornering on a trailing throttle, the optimal amount of traction and torque is fed to each wheel.

Dynamic Performance Control also significantly enhances steering precision and agility even at moderate speeds. In fast corners, or under sudden high-speed manoeuvres or when lifting off quickly, Dynamic Performance Control is able to stabilise the X6 Sports Activity Coupé, giving the driver more control.

Backing the increase in performance are newly developed brakes exclusively for the top-of-the-range BMW X6 xDrive50i. The lightweight brakes with discs measuring 385 millimetres in aluminium floating calliper construction both front and rear guarantee extreme fading resistance and maximum brake comfort.

The X6 xDrive50i is packed with technology and not just between the wheel arches.

It is exceedingly well equipped with a very high level of standard specification that includes special 20-inch light alloy wheels, Adaptive Drive, Self-levelling Pneumatic Suspension, Comfort Access, electrically adjustable front Comfort Seats, Head-Up Display, four-zone Automatic Climate Control, 16-speaker Hi-Fi system, gear-shift paddles mounted on the steering wheel for the six-speed automatic gearbox and interior and exterior mirrors with automatic anti-dazzle function.

Premium “Nevada” leather upholstery is standard, with the option of a perforated finish in combination with seat heating and ventilation. Four interior trim finishes are offered; ash or bamboo dark grain fine-wood, Aluminium, finely brushed lengthwise, and Aluminium Flywheel Black.

Aside from the new wheels, the X6 xDrive50i is distinguishable externally via satin-finish window surrounds, Titanium-coloured kidney grilles and a satin chrome side strip, while two rectangular form chrome tailpipes emerge at the rear at either side.

These features are, of course, in addition to the already high level of technological and luxury appointments offered in the six-cylinder petrol and diesel X6 models that have been on sale locally since 11th August, 2008.

The new twin turbo V8 engine provides unparalleled performance to match the X6 xDrive50i’s supreme handling dynamics, unique styling and strong road presence. It is priced from $145,000 plus dealer delivery and on road costs, and will be available from December 2008 from BMW dealers Australia-wide.