MotorMouths

The X6 M is the world’s fastest crossover. From the Infiniti FX50 to the Porsche Cayenne Turbo S, the BMW tops them all, whether the criteria are pure speed or handling control.

Did the world need a 550-hp SUV, much less two of them? Probably not, but the idea remains a compelling one. Priced just south of $90,000, the 2010 X6 M looks to be wholly competitive in the ML63/Cayenne Turbo landscape.

The BMW X6 is solidly built and full of luxury, safety and occupant protection. It’s also expensive. But that money will net its owner both horsepower superiority and performance dominance in its category.

It’s no coincidence that the BMW X6 M’s 555-hp output bests that of the Porsche Cayenne Turbo S by five ponies. And it undercuts the top Cayenne’s price by $34,690.

Driving the X6 M changed the way I looked at this vehicle. It still may only seat four people, but my advice is to just not be the fifth person invited to ride in it. This BMW earns its M badge by what it can do, not by how it looks.

The X6 is a high-powered, responsive SUV that looks like nothing else on the road, so if appearance trumps practicality than by all means buy one.

The BMW X6M is almost certainly quicker and, even with its peculiarities, better-handling than the Cayenne. Oh, and, it’s a whole lot less expensive than the Porsche, too.

With questionable styling, a less than practical four or five-seat cabin, and a steep pricetag, there are many reasons not to love the BMW X6, but for some reason the X6 remains one of those vehicles that are just begging to be driven.

If you can live with X6′s compromises and you love its style, you won’t be dissuaded by my opinion. I just need more function with my form, and with so many other great options out there, I’d have to leave X6 on the drawing board.

It’s unreasonable, it’s wasteful (I averaged 15 MPG), it’s unconventional. It fits no normal market segment. It only seats 4 and has no more cargo space than my car. It’s expensive. But the BMW X6 M is as awesome as it is uncompromising.

It’s hard to think of a rational argument for buying a 2010 BMW X6 M. However, if you simply have a slot in your 19-spot garage that needs filling, there’s something to be said for this bonkers BMW.

Like most BMWs, the X6 is a fine automobile. It rides high like an SUV; it’s fast; it handles well; and it’s comfortable inside.