Colors are purposely discordant to preserve tension in the design. The dash is flexible, and opens in the center like a mouth to reveal the color monitor of a multifunction control system, such as that introduced on the company's Z9 concept vehicles, which includes an off-road GPS system. To load cargo, the rear portion of the body opens clamshell-style, simultaneously providing access to the small rear seats, as long as the right side door is open. The driver sits up high in the X Coupe, thanks in part to the BMW X5 chassis underneath the radical bodywork. Gauges and controls are all angled toward the driver, resulting in a sporty, cockpit cabin effect.
Adjustable pedals mean finding a perfect driving position is that much more simple.
It's connected to a five-speed Steptronic automanual transmission that includes shift paddles on the steering wheel. Top speed is estimated to be 125 mph. All Season Traction, Dynamic Stability Control and Hill Descent Control are onboard to keep the X Coupe under control on, and off, the road. The brake lights tell drivers following the X Coupe how hard the BMW is braking through variable illumination. Concept cars often hint at the design direction an automaker's stylists are heading, so look for Flame Surfacing to show up, though likely not to this extreme, in future BMWs.