Second-generation BMW X6 revealed

BMW has ripped the covers off its new second-generation X6 at the 2014 Paris Motor Show, with the sporty SUV due to hit Aussie roads in December.

Following the reveal of the third-gen X5 earlier this year – with which the X6 shares most of its chassis and drivetrain hardware – the sleeker, design-orientated X6 now sports more bang for your buck.

Standard equipment is up across all grades and now includes bi-xenon headlights, 19-inch wheels, auto tailgate, leather trim, an eight-speed automatic, lane-departure warning and autonomous city braking.

All-wheel drive is standard across the range, with BMW deciding against giving the X6 an entry-level rear-drive sDrive variant (as on the X5) due to its sportier character.

Three engines will be offered, including a twin-turbo in-line six-cylinder diesel powering the 30d and a 280kW triple-turbo diesel in the M50d.

The sole petrol offering is an updated version of BMW’s 4.4-litre V8 tuned to produce 330kW in the X6 50i.

Fuel consumption is improved across the range by as much as 22 percent.

Performance lovers will be able to select an M Sport package to add a more aggressive look, while a fully blown X6 M is also in the works and could produce as much a 450kW – up significantly on the 408kW of the current model.

Pricing is yet to confirmed, but expect an announcement closer to the December launch.