BMW Adds Three-Seat Rear Bench Option for the X6 and New Equipment Goodies for X5

Starting from April 2011, BMW X6 customers will be able to specify the crossover model with a three-seat rear bench. Up until now, the X6 was offered exclusively with a four-seat layout. The extra accommodation is available for all X6 models with the exception of the X6 ActiveHybrid, and can also be ordered for the X6 M. Besides the third seat that replaces the previous storage unit between the two rear passengers, the five-seat model also gets new leather options.

BMW also announced that the new batch of X6 models will feature shift paddles on the steering wheel whose operating logic follows the principle familiar from the M cars: for manual shifting of the eight-speed Sport automatic transmission, the right paddle is used for upshifts and the left for downshifts.

Furthermore, both the BMW X5 and X6 can be ordered with new Y-spoke design 20-inch alloy wheels shod in 275/40 and 315/35 front and rear tires respectively, plus a Comfort Access system that illuminates the car’s surroundings, and an updated range of ConnectedDrive services. The latter includes the BMW Apps option, which means that iPhone users will be able to access Facebook, Twitter and international radio stations, regardless of the car’s location.

By Csaba Daradics

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Vorsteiner Releases VRS Aero Package for the BMW X6 M [with VIDEO]

Following a teaser announcement back in March, German tuning specialist Vorsteiner has launched its new VRS Aero Package for the BMW X6 M crossover. Trying to improve the X6 M's appereance ain't an easy task, though Vorsteiner seems to have pulled this one off with its new kit.

At the front, the Germans opted for a carbon fiber front spoiler, which increases downforce on the front axle while also channeling more air towards the engine and brakes. The new hood is also made from the same lightweight material and features vents that extract the heat produced by the stock 555 hp twin-turbocharged V8.

A carbon fiber diffuser replacing the plastic factory piece dominates the rear, encompassing three modular fins and two vents. The latter cool the exhaust system.

An add-on rear deck lid spoiler and forged mono-block aluminum alloys, shod in Michelin PS2 tires, complete the package. If potential customers don’t like the rims showcased on the SUV, they need not worry, as Vorsteiner has a wide variety of wheels they can choose from.

By Csaba Daradics

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