Think X5 with a fast coupe-like roofline, that's the latest intel that continues to circulate around the upcoming BMW X6, which has just been spied stateside during hot weather testing.
First spotted last year close to BMW's Munich mothership, this all-weather crossover will feature the automaker's signature ride and handling characteristics in a closed-coupe package. Comparisons to the Mercedes-Benz R-Class will be inevitable.
Look past the camouflage, and most insiders believe the X6 will feature a coupe style treatment in the rear. The vehicle looks to be both longer and lower than its X5 cousin, but sources indicate that it will seat only four when it hits production, which would set it apart from the R-Class. BMW may offer it with two conventional front doors and two quarter-doors in the rear and it may be marketed as a variant of the X5.
As for powertrain options, best guess so far is that it will come with a similar engine line to the X5, with BMW's 4.8-liter V-8 at the top of the X6 range. Expect the X6 to hit the production line sometime in 2008, with a concept version a small possibility for the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show, which is on BMW's home turf.