The BMW line at the Frankfurt Motor Show 2007 was that its new X6 Sports Activity Coupé is a “concept car”.

This has been challenged by some commentators who expect it in the showrooms next summer.

The X6 mixes X5 mechanicals with a snazzy coupé body. It will undoubtedly appeal to enthusiasts who appreciate its xDrive four-wheel drive system tuned for road performance. Also, all models will come with BMW’s “Dynamic Control Performance” active chassis.

The engine will be definitely sporty with two turbo-diesel sixes and turbo-charged six and V8 engines.

The consensus is that the X6 is rather unique. It has fine looks, and although climatologists might not like the idea of a SUV/coupé combination, BMW will counter by positioning it as a hybrid by 2009, claiming it will reduce fuel consumption by 20 percent.

It will be interesting to observe what emerges and when.