Munich- BMW has launched the X6 Sports Activity Vehicle combining the typical design features of a coupe with SUV qualities such as all-wheel drive, providing traction for every road situation.

The front emphasizes large air intakes. The big wheels lend a powerful presence while the sweeping roofline flows into a powerful rear end.

The newly developed top-of-the-range V8 petrol engine is fitted with twin turbo technology and direct petrol injection. BMW describes it as the world's first 8-cylinder petrol engine with the turbo- charger and catalytic converters housed in the V-section between the two rows of cylinders, providing improved fuel efficiency and performance. It is listed at 300 kW/407 hp. Average fuel consumption comes at 12.5 litres/100 km with CO2 emissions at 299 grammes per kilometre.

The BMW X6 xDrive35d comes with a 6-cylinder diesel engine with Variable twin turbo and third-generation common rail fuel injection. Output is at 210 kW/286 hp. Average fuel consumption is at 8.3 litres/100 km. Carbon dioxide emissions are at 220 g/km.

Six-speed automatic transmission with optimised gearshift dynamics is standard on all engine variants. Bi-xenon dual headlights including a daytime light function, fog lamps, two-stage brake lights, and run flat tyres are also standard.

Interior design elements underline the sporting character with leather sports steering wheel, multifunction buttons and gearshift paddles as standard.

Optional extras include anti-roll and adaptive dampers, active steering, head-up display, adaptive headlights with variable light distribution and turning light, high beam assist and cruise control with a brake function.

Entertainment and comfort options include a multichannel audio system, DVD system at the rear, 4-zone automatic air conditioning, Active Seat Ventilation, back-up camera and navigation systems.

The BMW X6 is built for the world market at the BMW Spartanburg plant in South Carolina on a shared assembly line with the X5 and Z4 models. Available at European dealers in May the entry level V6 sells for 56,800 euros (89,861 dollars). (dpa)