Some cars are designed to make a statement and stand out from the crowd—such as the BMW X6, for example. Not quite a coupe or a crossover but something in between, BMW describes it as “the first Sports Activity Coupe." The only change of note for the 2018 X6 is a new option package structure, where each package tier unlocks additional options once selected. The Premium package will be the first tier, followed by the M Sport package and the Executive package.

The X6’s exterior styling remains one of its main attractions. With its fastback roofline and tall ride height, the X6 is polarizing, to say the least. Its front end is very similar to the X5’s, with BMW’s trademark kidney grilles, slim headlights with distinctive halos, and an aggressive front bumper. Wheels range in size from 19 to 20 inches, and the optional M Sport package ups the aggressive factor with an aerodynamic package and large 20-inch wheels.

Unfortunately, the X6’s distinctive shape does come at a cost in terms of interior space. Rear-seat headroom is very much at a premium due to the low roofline, and the rear seats are not reclinable. Cargo space comes up a bit short, as well—the X6 offers up 26.6 cubic feet when the rear seats are up and 59.7 cubic feet with the seats folded. To give some perspective, its X5 sibling provides 35.8 cubic feet with all seats up and 76.7 cubic feet with the seats folded.

On the upside, the interior of the X6 looks and feels impressive, with a modern design and high-quality materials. Those sitting up front are treated to 14-way heated power seats, with 20-way power adjustments and ventilation available as options. BMW’s standard iDrive infotainment system comes with navigation and a 10.2-inch touchscreen, which provides crisp graphics that are easy-to-read when on the road. The display can also be accessed via a control knob with a touchpad.

BMW will offer the X6 in 3 different trims: the sDrive35i, xDrive35i, and xDrive50i. The sDrive35i and xDrive35i both feature a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder engine good for 300 hp and 300 lb-ft of torque—the only difference is that the sDrive35i comes with a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) platform while the xDrive35i is all-wheel drive (AWD). A turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine pumping out 445 hp and 480 lb-ft powers the AWD xDrive50i trim. Both engines come paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, and EPA fuel-economy figures range from 18 mpg city, 25 highway, and 21 combined for the sDrive35i to 15, 21, and 17 for the xDrive50i.

For most buyers, the X6’s turbo 6-cylinder offers more than enough power, while the V8 is perfect for those who crave performance as it moves the X6 with surprising authority. The V8 will get the X6 to 60 mph in under 5 seconds, which is impressive as it tips the scales at 5,080 pounds. Despite its large size, it moves through turns with little body roll and with sharp reflexes, and the steering is crisp and nicely weighted. The X6 provides a reasonable, if somewhat firm, ride, but those looking for something a bit softer should consider the optional adaptive dampers.

BMW has loaded the X6 with a number of safety features. Standard equipment includes a full set of airbags, stability and traction control, LED daytime running lights, and BMW Assist telematics with automatic collision notification and emergency services. Optional features include a reversing camera, a heads-up display, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control.

Pricing for the 2018 BMW X6 begins at $62,700 for the sDrive35i and rises to $77,450 for the xDrive50i.