BMW’s X6 has received its first significant update since its launch in June 2008, although most of the external changes are subtle enough to go unnoticed by most enthusiasts. The most notable change is the addition of the new X6 M50d M Performance model which fits in under the X6 M at the top of the model range.

The new LCI (Lifecycle impulse) X6 includes a revised front end with a wider chrome frame and revised bars on the large kidney grille and fog lights, set towards the edge of the car. As an alternative to the standard bi-xenon lights, Adaptive LED headlights are now available as an option, which introduce a more modern interpretation of BMW’s twin circular headlights.

At the rear the red light cluster is revised to include two horizontal LED Glowing Bars, further emphasising the width of the vehicle.

The new 381 bhp/546 lb-ft BMW X6 M50d.

Three new metallic paint colours are available to order – Orion Silver, Midnight Blue and Marrakesh Brown – and two new upholstery trims, Ivory White Exclusive Nappa Leather and Vermilion Red Nevada Leather.

Meanwhile the BMW X6 M and BMW X5 M also receive styling changes with the addition of Aluminium brake callipers in blue and become the first BMW models to include Adaptive LED Headlights as standard. In addition, the BMW X6 M also gains a Powerdome bonnet, as originally seen in the X6 Hybrid, which is said to enhance the car’s athletic stance.

The new LCI X6 goes on sale from 16 June 2012 priced at £46,725 OTR for the X6 xDrive30d, £62,260 for the X6 M50d and £85,680 OTR for the BMW X6 M. The BMW X5 M now costs from £83,260 OTR whilst the new X5 M50d will retail at £60,325 OTR.

With the addition of the 381 bhp M50d, the X6 range now offers 5 different versions including; 245 bhp xDrive30d, 306 bhp xDrive40d, 407 bhp xDrive50i and the range-topping 550 bhp X6 M.

At a current list price of £57,430 OTR, the xDrive50i althoug 26 bhp more powerful than the M50d, packs ‘only’ 600Nm of torque which pales in comparison when compared against the M50d’s 740Nm. Whilst both cars are quoted with similar 0-60 mph times (5.3 vs 5.4 seconds), the petrol engined xDrive50i will most likely struggle to keep up with the M50d and even the 680Nm X6 M may play second fiddle to this new M model.

So laugh if you will, but the M50d might well be the quickest X6 available on real roads and therefore the quickest SUV/SAV/SAC in the market.

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bmw facelift LCI life cycle impulse powerdome x6 m X6 M50d