The BMW M6 is the high-performance variant of the German automaker's full-size 6-Series Coupe. As with the last-generation model, it combines corrupting power with a coddling interior, plenty of technology features and a fun-in-the-sun convertible experience.
Stylistically, the M6 builds on the standard 6-Series with a much more aggressive body kit and either 19-inch or optional 20-inch alloy wheels. Wider external air intakes and new LED corona rings and accents give it a menacing appearance, although the overall look is far more cohesive and elegant than that of the outgoing model.
Inside, unique sports seats should hold driver and passenger in place. M-specific features like the automaker's custom-tailored M Drive system and M Heads-Up display are also on board once again. Aside from numerous M badges, a unique three-spoke steering wheel and some minor trim differences, the cabin is otherwise standard 6-Series fare, meaning it features a driver-focused design and high-quality materials throughout.
M-style performance with a twist
The redesigned M6 - the third generation to bear the nameplate - ditches the naturally aspirated V10 of the old model in favor of a new twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 that also does duty in the M5. Rated at 560 horsepower, the V8 is known to Bimmer-philes as the S63T due to its close relation to the S63 used in the X5 M and X6 M. Unlike high-revving BMW M engines of yore, the new V8 boasts its 500 lb-ft. of torque across an especially wide rev range (1,500 to 5,750 rpm). The engine's rev limiter is set at 7,200 rpm, which is 200 rpm higher than the S63 used in the crossovers, whereas the old V10 screamed its way up to a 8,250 rpm redline.
The redesigned M6 - the third generation to bear the nameplate - ditches the naturally aspirated V10 of the old model in favor of a new twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 that also does duty in the M5. Rated at 560 horsepower, the V8 is known to Bimmer-philes as the S63T due to its close relation to the S63 used in the X5 M and X6 M. Unlike high-revving BMW M engines of yore, the new V8 boasts its 500 lb-ft. of torque across an especially wide rev range (1,500 to 5,750 rpm). The engine's rev limiter is set at 7,200 rpm, which is 200 rpm higher than the S63 used in the crossovers, whereas the old V10 screamed its way up to a 8,250 rpm redline.
The V8 gets its grunt from two twin-scroll turbochargers positioned in the V "valley" between the two cylinder banks for a reverse-flow layout, which helps keep the engine especially compact and also yields a quicker warm-up of the similarly located catalysts. The turbochargers use a higher maximum boost in the M6 (21.7 psi) than in the crossovers with the standard S63 motor.
BMW says that the M6 can sprint to 62 mph in 4.2 seconds, but a 12.6-second sprint to 124 mph is even more impressive. Both models are limited to a 155 mph top speed.
Unlike the M5, which will offer a six-speed stick for North American consumers from launch, the M6 will initially be available only with BMW's dual clutch automatic unit, with the manual joining the options list in a year or two. With seven forward gears, the DCT offers sequential-style shifting from either the gear lever or a pair of paddles. Several drive modes are tailored for normal and sport-oriented driving, while a launch control system is on board for optimal 0-60 sprints. BMW's M Drive system lets the driver tailor six parameters to certain road conditions like tracks or highways.
Fuel economy for the dual clutch/V8 combo is 14 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway.
Helping the M6 stick to the road is an Active M limited slip rear differential and an M-specific suspension setup. Special stability control and ABS tuning will allow for sportier maneuvers than the standard 6-Series offers, while large 15.7/15.6 (front/rear) brakes should bring things to a rapid halt. Carbon ceramic brakes are an optional extra.
Standard Equipment
Befitting its spot near the pinnacle of BMW's model range, the M6 comes lavishly equipped with standard leather upholstery, 20-way power adjustable and heated M sports seats, a navigation system with a 10.2-inch display and real-time traffic information, a rear parking camera and front and rear park distance control to make parking a snap, radar-based cruise control, a 12-speaker premium audio system with HD radio and an iPod adapter, dual-zone automatic climate control and a keyless entry and start system.
Befitting its spot near the pinnacle of BMW's model range, the M6 comes lavishly equipped with standard leather upholstery, 20-way power adjustable and heated M sports seats, a navigation system with a 10.2-inch display and real-time traffic information, a rear parking camera and front and rear park distance control to make parking a snap, radar-based cruise control, a 12-speaker premium audio system with HD radio and an iPod adapter, dual-zone automatic climate control and a keyless entry and start system.
Highlights from the options list include a 16-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system, ventilated seats, a night vision system and a heads-up display that transmits speed and other vital information to the base of the windshield. Also available is a Driver Assistance Package that bundles together a lane departure warning system, active blind spot detection, side and top view cameras and a speed limit info system that displays the posted speed limit in the instrument panel and heads-up display (if equipped).
Safety Equipment
Standard safety features on the M6 include dual front, side, side curtain and knee airbags in addition to active head restraints and traction and stability control systems.
Standard safety features on the M6 include dual front, side, side curtain and knee airbags in addition to active head restraints and traction and stability control systems.
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Key Competitors
Those looking for a luxurious coupe that's at home both on a long-distance highway journey and a backroads blitz can consider alternatives to the M6 such as the Jaguar XKR, the Porsche 911 Carrera S and the Aston Martin V8 Vantage S.
Those looking for a luxurious coupe that's at home both on a long-distance highway journey and a backroads blitz can consider alternatives to the M6 such as the Jaguar XKR, the Porsche 911 Carrera S and the Aston Martin V8 Vantage S.
Price Range:
$108,350 - $114,650
MPG Range:
15 - 15 mpg
Bodystyles:
Convertibles, Coupes
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