The BMW X6 range is to get a new flagship with the launch of the BMW X6 xDrive50i. Powered by a unique twin-turbocharged V8 engine, the vehicle’s 408hp powerplant is capable of propelling the vehicle from zero to 62mph in 5.4 seconds before going on to an electronically-limited top speed of 155mph.

The 4395cc engine features the novel design of two turbochargers and catalysts within the vee of the engine. Such a configuration aids packaging requirements while also boosting responsiveness courtesy of the shortened exhaust pipes.

To highlight the competitive advantage this arrangement yields the BMW X6 xDrive50i, which goes on sale in November priced £53,930, is 1.8 seconds quicker from zero to 62mph than the flagship Range Rover Sport. The BMW’s CO2 emissions figure of 299g/km is 75g/km cleaner than the Range Rover and, in recording a combined 22.6mpg figure, it is also 4.8mpg more fuel efficient. It is a similar story when comparing the same BMW X6 to the Porsche Cayenne GTS. The Porsche is 1.4 seconds slower from zero to 62mph, 2.3mpg less efficient and, at 332g/km, it is 33g/km more polluting.