The BMW M6

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.

M-style performance with a twist
The redesigned M6 – the third such generation to bare 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.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.