Most BMW X6 drivers won’t ever take their coupe-inspired SUV off-road beside perhaps on an odd gravel stretch. This hasn’t stopped German tuner Manhart from converting this SUV into a far more powerful and somewhat more capable off-road machine.
The result is the new MHX6 Dirt² Concept and the company has announced plans to build five of these rigs.
Converted from the regular X6 M, Manhart has tuned the engine of the MHX6 Dirt² to deliver 662kW and 1 200Nm of torque. The cooling system has been improved and new pistons, connecting rods,and revised turbos all make this increase in power possible. The gearbox has also been strengthened and a new rear axle was added.
On the exterior, the MHX6 Dirt² has protective panels added underneath, an exterior roll cage to protect the roof in case of a rollover, which also functions as a mounting point for the full-sized spare. A smallish bull bar protects the front end, and the SUV also gains a winch up front. Dual air intake snorkels have been added, probably more for flair than actual deep water wading.
To increase the MHX6’s off-road performance, Manhart has installed a better suspension system from KW that improves the ride height. The SUV rides on set of 21-inch wheels wrapped in knobby BF Goodridge tyres, and Manhart has also added better brakes ‘to keep the speed under control.’
The company needs six to eight months after each order is placed to build the off-roader. Manhart expects ultra-wealthy clients in the Middle East to be the prime customers for the MHX6 Dirt². The five units each carry a base price of €395 000 (over R6-million).
