GENERAL INFORMATION

Introduction - X6

X6
The stylish lines of the X6 are combined with a sleek and sporty wide stance which is signature of all BMW
coupes. The X6 slopping roofline continues all the way to the newly designed tailgate. The passenger
compartment accommodates four occupants in a higher sitting position, while offering all the same options and
amenities available on current E70 Vehicles. With the rear split seats lowered, the X6 delivers the largest cargo
room in its class.

Built on the E70 platform, the X6 also employs xDrive (BMW all-wheel- drive technology with electronic
control for variable distribution of drive power between the front and rear axles), only to be taken to another
level with the use of Dynamic Performance Control (DPC).

The typical E70 xDrive system is now coupled with a totally new QMVH differential and a new system referred

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to as Integrated Chassis Management (ICM) system. This new system allows the distribution of the drive torque
from front to rear as well as from left to right at the rear axle. xDrive with QMVH continually adjusts to any
driving condition and performs well in all situations.

The X6 will be available in two models, differentiated mainly by their power plant. The xDrive35i will sport the
already familiar N54 engine with its 3.0 liter twin turbo, direct injection, 300 hp and 300lb-ft torque six
cylinder. The xDrive50i gets the N63, a new 4.4 liter, 400 hp, 450 lb-ft torque V8 engine with direct injection
and twin turbochargers (neatly tucked into the engine valley).

Fig. 1: Identifying Anatomy Of X6

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

BODY
The E71 will be launched in early 2008 and will be available in the following models:
 X6 xDrive50i with N63B44O0 engine
 X6 xDrive35i with N54B30O0 engine

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Fig. 2: Identifying Side View Body
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Fig. 3: Identifying Front View Body

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.
 Fig. 4: Identifying Rear View Body
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

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To further reinforce the sports-oriented character of the E71, compared to the E70, the conventional chassis has
been set lower by 10 mm.

The ride height has remained the same as on the E70 for the chassis and suspension system with adaptive drive.

Compared to the E70, the dimensions and weight of the E71 are as follows:

SPECIFICATION CHART
Specification E71 E70
Unladen weight (kg) 2,145 2,125
Length (mm) 4,884 4,854
Width (mm) 2,195 2,197
Height (mm) 1,690 1,766
Wheelbase (mm) 2,933 2,933
Track width, front (mm) 1,644 1,644
Track width, rear (mm) 1,706 1,650

TECHNICAL COMPARISON (E70 VS E71)

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Fig. 5: Identifying E70 X5 Body Dimensions
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.
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Fig. 6: Identifying E71 X6 Body Dimensions
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

BODYSHELL CONSTRUCTION

 In the E71, demanding functional requirements have been achieved by the consistent implementation of
innovative lightweight construction while adopting many components from the E70 sub-frame.
 The E71 features hot-formed BTR materials in tailor rolled blanks (TRB) as well as micro-alloyed dual-
phase steels.
 Torsional rigidity is comparable to the E70.

The design layout of the body structure was primarily based on optimum interaction of passive safety measures
for the purpose of achieving maximum safety for all vehicle occupants.

A large number of body reinforcements were used in the safety-relevant areas of the front end, B-pillar and rear
end while using new steel grades to provide a greater load bearing capacity compared to conventional steel. As
a result, impact deformation is kept as low as possible while interacting with the restraint systems to ensure
maximum safety for all occupants. Impact energy that occurs during a collision is absorbed by the structure and
correspondingly directed along load paths.

The structure of the E71 was designed to conform to the US Lateral Impact New Car Assessment Program
(LINCAP) at 64 km/h/40mph with crabbed barrier, to US Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) new
side impact test at 50 km/h/31mph at 90° as well as to US high speed rear end impact 80 km/h/50mph with 70%
offset.

With the aim of providing the highest possible level of occupant protection in connection with the safety
passenger compartment, all conceivable situations, going beyond legal requirements, were considered in the
simulations.

The body structure remains intact at an impact of up to 15 km/h (lateral 40% offset at front and rear) at an
impact angle of 10°.

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Fig. 7: Identifying Bodyshell Construction
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

INDEX EXPLANATION REFERENCE CHART

Index Explanation
1 Other steels
2 DC04 - DX54D, DX56D
 3 HC180BD - HC180YD
4 HC260BD, HC240LAD
5 HC300BD
6 HC380LAD
7 CR420X, CR950DL
8 HD680C
9 22MnB5 (BTR165)
10 Plastic
11 AlMg3Mn - AlSi10MgMn, AlMg04, 5Mn04

PASSIVE SAFETY

A complex, perfectly coordinated system, consisting of various safety components ensures the greatest possible
passenger protection in the event of an accident occurring while reinforcing the concept of "The Ultimate
Driving Machine". This system consists of the seat belt, airbag and steering assembly maximizes passenger
safety.

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The integrated safety electronics has the important task of triggering the right airbag at the right safety level and
right time corresponding to the type and severity of collision. The intelligent system does not deploy any
airbags that are not required, thus ensuring that they are still available to protect the vehicle occupants in the
event of secondary impacts. This system achieves the US Top Safety Picks in the IIHS crash test.

STRUCTURE

The greatest possible degree of safety at the lowest possible weight was achieved through intensive co-
operation between development engineers and safety experts as part of the development of the E71 body:

 Optimum design layout and utilization of deformation zones for generating intelligent and coordinated
vehicle characteristics.
 Extremely rigid passenger compartments.
 High-strength, large volume carrier structures with specific use of high and super high strength steel
grades in the front section, roof and side frame as well as in the rear section.
 The implementation of tried-and-tested design elements in frontal impacts with complete or minimum
offset for effective transmission and dissipation of forces.
 Minimizing of deformation depth and intrusion speeds during side impacts through reinforced side
structures in the B-pillar and sill/rockers, high-strength door reinforcement, sturdy seat cross member and
a cross beam in the underbody assembly.
 Even in the event of a severe impact, the passenger compartment effectively safeguards the occupants
thanks to the heavily reinforced pillars and roof members.

The energy-absorption characteristics are achieved by maintaining the passenger compartment structure and the
successful adaptation of restraint systems.

It was possible to significantly improve the rigidity of the body by using a closed torsion ring around the D-
pillar and by optimum node design layout. Another feature used to increase the torsional strength is the load-
sharing, wedged tailgate. By applying tension to the hatch between the D-pillars, the hatch shell, with its
profiles, increases the rigidity.

E71 Torsion Ring

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Fig. 8: Identifying E71 Torsion Ring
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

PEDESTRIAN PROTECTION

This system was adopted from the E70:

 The aluminum hood

 The hood hinges have a disengaging mechanism in the direction of impact
 The brackets for the hood latches collapse
 The plastic side panel module

The bodyshell structure has been lowered and the resulting space filled in with a plastic carrier structure
(module carrier) with a plastic fender. This separates the "soft" requirements of design and pedestrian protection
from the "hard" requirements of rigidity, stability, high and low-speed crash performance.

The front lower wheel arch carrier support creates a space which is filled with a plastic module carrier.
Fig. 9: Identifying E71 Side Panel Module

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Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

E71 Side Panel Module

FRONT END DESIGN

The fenders are made from a plastic, of the same material as the bumper panels. This makes it possible to use
the same painting process (painting temperature should be 85°C/185°F) for both components.

In simulated pedestrian protection tests, a test object (3.5 kg/7.7 lb) is shot against the side panel at a speed of
35-40 km/h or 25mph.

Fig. 10: Identifying E71 Front Section Components

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.
E71 Front Section Components

In most cases, the deformation proved to be reversible (no splintering and no breakage of component, including
the paint work). As a passive system, the module carrier of the side panel module effectively contributes to
complying with pedestrian protection requirements. With its ribbed structure, the module carrier essentially acts
as a spring element.

INTERIOR
ACCENTS AND FEATURES

For the purpose of differentiating the top engine models, the BMW X6 exhibits the following design features.

 Badges on front fenders differentiate engine models

xDrive35i

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xDrive50i

 Sporty coupe appearance

 Chrome trim accentuates windows
 The already expressive kidney is further accentuated and the sports-orientated character of the vehicle is
emphasized.
 An E60 style sunroof is used with Panaroma glass sunroof option not available for E71.

Continuous chrome strip in area of 'Hofmeister' kink, no joint as on other models.

Dashboard

The leather-grain surface material of the dashboard is made from an in mould coating (IMC) slush skin with the
following properties:

Maximum performance over the entire service life of the vehicle, light resistant, provides protection against
scratching and soiling, complies with technical and legal requirements, excellent appearance as well as touch
and feel properties.

The leather-coated dashboard option provides optimum appearance and feel. Special non-woven upholstery
padding under the leather makes it feel soft and flexible. The leather therefore has ample give when touched.
The scent of real leather conveys an air of exclusivity in the vehicle interior.

The seams additionally contribute to the high-grade visual appearance of the dashboard and door shoulder.

DoorTrim

 2-part decor strip for high-quality appearance.

 Leather trim pull handle (available in Nevada leather, Alcantara and Saddle exclusive leather), basic: soft
 paint; Handle bracket in 2-component technology.
 Ambient lighting in the door handle and in the door pocket (option).
 Recessed handle for driver's door.

The new recessed handle in the driver's door improved ergonomics. While new ambient lighting (option)
conveys a better impression of space at night.

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Fig. 11: Identifying Front Door Trim (Passenger Side)
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Front door trim, front passenger side

Fig. 12: Identifying Rear Door Trim

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Rear door trim

FRONT SEATS

The following seat variants are offered for the E70:

 Fully electric basic seat

 Multifunction seat
 Sports seat

In addition to the functions of the fully electrically operated basic seat, the multifunction seat also has:
  Electric backrest-head adjustment
 Pneumatic lumbar support depth and height adjustment
 Electric head restraint height adjustment
 Luxury head restraint with manual lateral adjustment ("rest head restraint")
 Electric seat back width adjustment
 Electric depth adjustment of the seat
 Memory functions for driver and front passenger

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Fig. 13: Identifying Front Seats
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Possible options (driver and front passenger):

 Four-circuit seat heating

 Active seat
 Active seat ventilation including seat heating

Active Seat Ventilation

The improved cushion and cover design and active ventilation of the seats increases the climate and
physiological well-being of the passengers.

The system is operated by means of a button on the climate control panel. A blue LCD indicates that the system
is active. The setting (3-stage) is shown in the control display.

This option is only available in conjunction with the electrically adjustable front luxury option and the seat
heating option for driver and front passenger.

Active seat ventilation is split into the following components:

 Perforated cover in Nevada leather

 Seat heating
  Interlay knitted fabric for optimum air distribution
 Nine axial-flow fans (four in the backrest, five in the seat cushion)

NOTE: Crash sensitive head restraints are standard equipment.

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Fig. 14: Identifying Active Seat Ventilation
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

REAR SEATS

The vehicle offers ample knee room in the rear while the range of options makes it possible to individualize.
There are two individual sports style seats in the rear, demonstrating the E71's coupe character while creating an
exclusive atmosphere. Additional storage space is provided on either side between the rear seats and door trim
panel.

Two large drink holders and a storage compartment or alternatively an ashtray and cigarette lighter are
integrated in the rear console located between the two individual seats. This unit is closed off by two roller
covers, concealing a large, open and divided storage compartment.
Fig. 15: Identifying Rear Seats
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

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NOTE: The ISOFIX system is accessed through a slit in the seat cover.

Individual Rear Seats

The seats are designed as full foam folding split seats with separate backrest and seat cushion and a torso angle
of 26°. The split ratio is 60/40. The backrest is unlocked by means of a handle on the backrest. The integrated
head restraints and the individual seats with molded side sections underscore the high-performance coupe
character of the rear seat system. The special design layout of the headliner ensures optimum headroom without
having to forego a folding center armrest and a ski bag (option).

Rear seat heating (three-stage switch, heating output as on E70); is only in conjunction with front seat heating.

Seat Belt Height Adjustment

In terms of passive safety, due to the geometry of the area surrounding the seats, there is no need for a seat belt
height adjustment feature. In the E71, the seat belt system has been ergonomically tailored to the rear
passengers while taking the various physical sizes into account. This system complies with stringent passenger
safety requirements and corresponding legal stipulations.
Fig. 16: Identifying Seat Belt
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

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GLOVE COMPARTMENT

The E71 glove compartment was inspired by the E70 design. It locks automatically when the vehicle is locked.
The volume of the glove box is bigger, as the airbag has been moved closer to the windshield. The new position
makes it easier to look into and access stored items.

Both lids are opened by means of a button on the left, next to the glove compartment. This is located under the
center grill, integrated into the right side end of the lower accent strip. The lids are coupled with each other; in a
way that they automatically move together upwards or downward at the push of a button.

A 6-disc DVD multimedia changer is offered as an option, with CCC cars only. It is located in the glove box
and will also be available on the E70. This option allows video media to be played on the front CID providing
the vehicle speed is 0 mph.

Fig. 17: Identifying Glove Compartment With Optional Multimedia Changer

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Glove compartment with optional multimedia changer

CENTER STORAGE COMPARTMENTS

The console storage compartment is located on the center console, the two lids can be opened separately at the
push of a button. The buttons are located on the front of the console, each directly to the right or left beneath the
lids. The lids may be operated individually. They open automatically with a spring and are closed manually.

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Fig. 18: Identifying Center Storage Compartments
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Drinks holders and extra storage tray, are located in the front section of the center console, where the
compartment tray is covered by sliding roller doors. These meet in the middle and can be opened to the front or
back with two small handles. In the front area, there is a storage tray or, optionally, an ashtray with a cigarette
lighter. In the rear section there are two large drinks holders.

KNEE PADS

Knee pads made from high-quality glass fiber reinforced plastic, characterized by outstanding stability and
lightweight construction. The knee pads are coated with leather as standard. The knee pads can be coated with
all types of leather depending on the selected leather option. The Alcantara leather combination is considered
the exclusive leather option.

Fig. 19: Identifying Knee Pads

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.
LUGGAGE COMPARTMENT

 A large luggage compartment volume at 1540 liters compared to large coupe and SUVs.
 Delivers ample functionality.
 Extensive additional storage options.
 Folding luggage compartment cover can be stowed away under luggage compartment floor.
 Stainless steel loading step/sill.
 Storage package with two lashing rails (option).

The design layout and size of the luggage compartment are noteworthy when compared to vehicle of this class.

Due to the run-flat tires standard on this vehicle a spare tire is no longer required. Though a space saver tire is
standard equipment in the US.

The luggage compartment floor is opened with the help of gas-pressurized prop piston. The optional storage
package includes useful items such as two lashing rails with four adjustable lashing eyes, stowage nets, bag

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hooks, a light for the storage compartment and a 12 Volt connection in the center console.

The luggage compartment floor is lockable as standard. The luggage compartment cover is easy to remove and
install and coated with a high quality textile material. Due to its Z-folding design, the cover can be folded and
stored under the luggage compartment floor provided the space-saver wheel option was not ordered.

An fastening system is optionally offered, which is available only together with the storage package. With this
option, the luggage compartment can be divided allowing smaller items of luggage to be secured.

Fig. 20: Identifying Luggage Compartment

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

The stainless steel loading step/sill gives the vehicle an individual and high quality appearance.
Fig. 21: Identifying Stainless Steel Loading Step And Sill
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

TAILGATE

There is two different tailgates options offered on the E71 X6:

 Manual Tailgate with dual height adjustment

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 Automatic Tailgate (HKL)

Manual Tailgate

The system operates with the use of two hydraulic shocks that provide the lifting of the tailgate. To set the
maximum tailgate opening height, these hydraulic shocks can be manually adjusted to 2 separate positions. The
adjustment is made by rotating the hydraulic shock/covers on the right and left lifting cylinders, which are
appropriately, marked 1 and 2.

When set to the #1 position, the tailgate opens up to its low setting. When the #2 position is selected, the tailgate
is raised to its maximum setting. To fully open the tailgate when the adjustment is in position (1), the tailgate
must be first lowered approximately 12" and then raised all the way up, before position #2 is selected.

Manual Tailgate adjustment on the hydraulic lifting shocks

Fig. 22: Identifying Manual Tailgate Adjustment On Hydraulic Lifting Shocks
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

NOTE: The adjustment can only be performed when the tailgate is in the fully "open
up" position.

Position #1 corresponds to the lowest tailgate height setting.

(Lowest Setting)

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Fig. 23: Identifying Tailgate Height Setting (Lowest)
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Position #2 corresponds to the highest tailgate height setting.

(Highest Setting)

Fig. 24: Identifying Tailgate Height Setting (Highest)

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Automatic Tailgate (HKL)

In terms of its functionality, the automatic tailgate operation is identical to that of the E70 X5 HKL. It differs
only by minor changes made to the mechanical and electrical systems. The automatic tailgate operating system
has been adapted to the body of the X6 and only the changes/modifications are outlined.

The tailgate of the E71 X6 is a one-piece component.

Automatic opening of the tailgate may be done by remote control or push button. Closing the tailgate is only
possible with the use of the push button. The push button on the inside of the tailgate no longer connects to the
junction box but rather directly to the HKL module.

An anti-trap system is provided and integrated into the screw drives units. The HKL monitors position and
current of the screw drive units.

Since there is no lower tailgate, there is no need for the lower tailgate contact. The fact that no signal is sent is
ignored by the control unit (JB).

Automatic Tailgate Operation

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The tailgate lift (3) controls and monitors the opening or closing of the tailgate. This can be triggered by the
tailgate push buttons (8, 11 and 14). The controller (5) can be used to adjust the maximum opening angle for the
tailgate on Central Information Display (4).

The signals from outside temperature sensor (1) and the vehicle speed (6) are evaluated in the decision as to
whether the tailgate may be opened or closed in response to pushing the button.

Fig. 25: Automatic Tailgate Operation Diagram

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.
INDEX EXPLANATION REFERENCE CHART
Index Explanation
1 Outside temperature sensor
2 Instrument cluster
3 Automatic tailgate operation control unit
4 Central information display
5 Controller
6 Dynamic stability control
7 Tailgate screw drive
8 Interior tailgate push button
9 Drive unit for automatic soft-close function
10 Tailgate lock
11 Exterior tailgate push button
12 Not applicable
13 Car Access System 3

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14 Interior tailgate push button

E71 Automatic Tailgate Operation System Circuit Diagram

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Fig. 26: E71 Automatic Tailgate Operation System Circuit Diagram
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

INDEX EXPLANATION REFERENCE CHART

Index Explanation
1 Car Access System 3 (CAS3)
2 Integrated automatic heating and air-conditioning system (IHKA)
3 Tailgate push button in the center console switch cluster (SZM)
4 Tailgate lift (HKL)
5 Spindle drive motor, right
6 Hall sensor, right
7 Hall sensor, right
8 Connections to the junction-box (ECU)
9 Rear hatch contact
 10 Upper tailgate lock motor
11 Exterior tailgate push button
12 Contact for drive of automatic soft-close function
13 Automatic soft-close for tailgate
14 Interior tailgate push button
15 Interior tailgate push button illumination
16 Not applicable
17 Hall sensor, left
18 Hall sensor, left
19 Spindle drive motor, left
20 Remote control receiver in diversity module
21 Remote control aerial in the rear window
K-CAN Body CAN
Kl.30 Terminal 30
Kl. 30g Terminal 30 switched

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Rel.S CA Connection to the automatic soft-close relay

BUS SYSTEM OVERVIEW

Fig. 27: Bus System Overview

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

COOLING MODULE
Remove the bumper cover, cooler module brace struts, plastic grill frame and top radiator cover.

Examine the components of the E71 Cooling module and note their location.

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Fig. 28: Identifying E71 Cooling Module
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.
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Fig. 29: Identifying E71 Cooling Module Components
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.