Spyshots/BMW X6:BMW is to opt for a four-seater in its ever-expanding model range. The new model - to be called the X6 - is a crossover SUV, described by some in the industry as a mix of 6-Series and X5.
A heavily disguised version of the car has been spotted during testing around the company's Munich headquarters.
The car will feature a new sloping coupé-like roofline, although the heavy disguising here means it is not visible in the photos. There is no definite information as yet on precisely what the rear styling will look like, but suggestions are that it will resemble the Z4 lines. A particular feature of the new design is a high shoulder line.
While originally the plans were to create a rival to the Mercedes CLS, it now seems a little strange for a competitor to a four-door coupé being a SUV-like vehicle, pointing at Mercedes' R-class instead.
While there was initial scepticism about BMW entering non-saloon segments, most are now convinced that BMW can make an MPV or a crossover SUV go like a saloon that handles very well. Longer and lower than the new X5, this crossover will also seat only four. But, according to sources within the company, what the sporty X6 loses in seating, it will gain in performance. Expect it to arrive on the market in 2008.