Due in Australia later this year, BMW’s new M6 Coupe and Convertible models have been launched in Europe.
Like the just-launch-locally BMW M5, the biggest change is under the bonnet with the arrival of BMW’s stunning 412kW/680Nm twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8, seven-speed M double clutch transmission with Drivelogic for low-speed driving and the active M differential. And, for the first time BMW M6 buyers can option carbon-ceramic brakes.
With zero to 100km/h in just 4.2 seconds (coupe), or 4.3 seconds (convertible), the BMW M6 is in the supercar league. However, despite the extra 30 per-cent torque and 10 per-cent more power (compared to the previous atmo V10), the twin-turbo V8 is actually kinder to the plant with fuel consumption and exhaust C02 emissions down by 30 to 9.9l/100kms/232g/km (coupe) and 10.3l/100kms/239g/km (convertible).
The classic lines of both models are enhanced by sporty additions in the stylish BMW M-Sport way. The front is smoother, with wider air inlets and contoured headlights with LED DRLs, lower air flaps, a black-colour for the kidney grille to match the 19-inch (20-inch optional) double-spoke alloy wheels and flared wheel arches to cope with a extra 30mm of track width.
From the side, the ‘M’ side air extractor vents gain integrated indicator lights, and side skirts add more muscle.
And the rear is of course highlighted by twin exhausts, and under-bumper diffuser and air intakes.
As per the superseded model, the new BMW M6 coupre runs a lightweight carbon fibre roof, its dark colour matched in the side window borders and B-pillar.
The convertible’s soft-top (black, beige or anthracite silver) unusually has fin highlights. A vertical glass window which reacts independently to the soft top is stored behind the rear seats.
Inside are new lightweight M sports seats with integrated head restraints and ‘M’ logos in the shoulder sections. And, like the M5m the BMW M6 runs black-panel instrument technology with a 10.2-inch centre control display.
There is also a head-up display and superb Bang & Olufsen audio.
BMW Australia has not as yet shed light on local details of the M6.
