Six-cylinder engines have a reputation for being the perfect all-rounders. At low speeds, they are smooth, refined, and even relatively efficient. But when you put your foot down, they transform into thrilling powerplants that deliver strong acceleration and an addictive soundtrack.
While six-cylinder cars are rare in India and usually come with hefty price tags, there are still a few relatively accessible options for enthusiasts. Here’s a look at the five most affordable six-cylinder cars currently on sale in India, ranked from the priciest to the most budget-friendly.
5. BMW X5 – From ₹93.60 lakh
The BMW X5 is the most expensive car in this list, but it also offers the most versatility. The base X5 xDrive40i packs a 3.0-litre turbocharged straight-six petrol engine producing 381hp and 520Nm, paired with an 8-speed automatic and all-wheel drive. BMW also gives buyers the choice of a six-cylinder diesel for an additional ₹1.90 lakh, which makes 286hp and a hefty 650Nm.
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Engines: 3.0L straight-six turbo-petrol / 3.0L straight-six turbo-diesel
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Power & Torque: 381hp/520Nm (petrol) | 286hp/650Nm (diesel)
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Drivetrain: AWD, 8-speed automatic
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0–100km/h: 5.4 sec (xDrive40i)
In our experience, the diesel feels especially rewarding thanks to its strong low-end torque and surprising eagerness to rev, while the petrol variant is the quicker of the two, sprinting from 0–100km/h in just 5.4 seconds.
4. BMW Z4 – From ₹87.90 lakh
For those who want their six-cylinder thrills in a roadster body, the BMW Z4 is the only option under a crore. The Z4 M40i features a 3.0-litre turbocharged straight-six petrol engine developing 340hp and 500Nm. Standard models come with an 8-speed automatic and rear-wheel drive, but purists can opt for the Pure Impulse Edition with a 6-speed manual, at a small premium.
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Engine: 3.0L straight-six turbo-petrol
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Power & Torque: 340hp/500Nm
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Drivetrain: RWD, 8-speed automatic or 6-speed manual
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0–100km/h: 4.5 sec (claimed), 4.8 sec (tested)
The Z4 feels quick, responsive, and sounds fantastic. Power delivery is linear, and the car remains engaging no matter where you are in the rev range.
3. Audi Q7 – From ₹86.14 lakh
The Audi Q7 has long been a favourite among those who want a luxury SUV with three rows of seating. Its 3.0-litre turbo-petrol V6 produces 340hp and 500Nm, working through an 8-speed automatic and Audi’s Quattro AWD system.
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Engine: 3.0L V6 turbo-petrol
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Power & Torque: 340hp/500Nm
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Drivetrain: AWD, 8-speed automatic
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0–100km/h: 5.6 sec
Despite its size, the Q7 feels lively thanks to the smooth and responsive V6. The refinement levels are excellent, and it blends luxury with performance better than most large SUVs in its class.
2. BMW M340i – From ₹73.95 lakh
The M340i is arguably the most exciting car in this list. It’s a performance-oriented sedan that doubles as a practical daily driver. Under its bonnet lies a 3.0-litre straight-six turbo-petrol motor producing 374hp and 500Nm. The power is sent to all four wheels via BMW’s xDrive system and an 8-speed automatic gearbox.
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Engine: 3.0L straight-six turbo-petrol
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Power & Torque: 374hp/500Nm
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Drivetrain: AWD, 8-speed automatic
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0–100km/h: 4.4 sec (claimed), 4.39 sec (tested)
With explosive acceleration in Sport mode and composed manners in Eco or Comfort mode, the M340i offers the best of both worlds. It’s also the quickest car here, making it a true performance bargain.
1. Audi S5 Sportback – From ₹73.57 lakh
Topping this list as the most affordable six-cylinder car in India is the Audi S5 Sportback. Sleek and stylish, the S5 uses the same 3.0-litre V6 turbo-petrol as the Q7, but here it’s tuned for 354hp and 500Nm. Paired with an 8-speed automatic and Quattro AWD, the S5 sprints from 0–100km/h in 4.8 seconds.
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Engine: 3.0L V6 turbo-petrol
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Power & Torque: 354hp/500Nm
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Drivetrain: AWD, 8-speed automatic
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0–100km/h: 4.8 sec
The S5 strikes a perfect balance between everyday usability and high-performance fun. In Dynamic mode, it’s aggressive and exhilarating, while in Comfort mode, it transforms into a refined luxury cruiser.
Final Thoughts
While six-cylinder cars aren’t exactly affordable by mass-market standards, these five models are the most accessible ways to experience the unique balance of refinement and performance that only a six-pot engine can deliver. From the elegant Audi S5 Sportback to the versatile BMW X5, each of these cars proves why enthusiasts continue to swear by six cylinders despite the industry’s shift towards downsizing and electrification.
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