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AUTOS: BMW Unleashes Next M6 Models
Performance-boosted coupe and convertible versions storm back in M division reveal prior to Geneva Motor Show debuts.
Bob Golfen  |  Posted February 12, 2012   Woodcliff Lake, NJ
The M performance version of the BMW 6-Series coupe gets 560 horsepower from its twin-turbo V8. (Photo: BMW)
The third-generation M6 coupe and convertible have been rolled out by BMW’s M performance division, boosted with more power to become what the German automaker calls its fastest-ever two-door road cars.

Powered by a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 rated at 560 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque, and with more flexibility than the M6’s previous V10, the upcoming models and their M5 sibling sedan is targeted for the track, BMW says, while providing flexible drivability and premium features for daily use on the street.

The convertible version of the new M6 is set to begin U.S. sales in June. (Photo: BMW)
The M6 pair will make their world debuts at the Geneva Motor Show in March and North American unveilings at the New York Auto Show in April. The 2012 convertible is scheduled to appear in showrooms in June with the coupe arriving later in the year as a 2013 model.

Pricing has not been announced, but it’s expected to be in line with previous M6 models.

The sole transmission choice for the rear-wheel-drive M6 cars is a seven-speed M-DCT dual-clutch automatic coupled with an Active M limited-slip differential. The final-drive ratio has been lowered to 3.15:1 compared with the previous model's 3.62:1, and first gear gets a taller 4.81:1 ratio instead of the previous 3.99:1 for more gusto off the line.

Like the 3-Series M coupe, the M6 two-door gets lightened with a carbon-fiber roof. (Photo: BMW)
BMW claims acceleration times from zero to 62 mph (100k) at 4.2 seconds for the coupe and 4.3 seconds for the convertible. Top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph, although an optional M Driver's package raises that to 189.5 mph.

Electronic enhancements allow the driver to custom-tune the engine management, transmission shift points, steering response, ride and handling, and stability control, ranging from highway cruising comfort to aggressive track performance.

The M5 and M6 cars get a unique chassis that includes rigid connections between the rear subframe and body, reinforced chassis mounts and lightweight forged-aluminum suspension components.

Both the M6 coupe and convertible get more-accommodating rear seats. (Photo: BMW)
The braking system is upgraded from the standard 6-series models, with 15.7-inch vented and cross-drilled discs up front with six-piston calipers, and 15.6-inch discs in the rear. BMW also will offer for the first time carbon-ceramic discs as an option for lighter weight and enhanced fade resistance.

Although slightly longer and wider than the former M6 models, heft for the new coupe and convertible has been kept down with lightweight materials, such as aluminum hood and doors, fiberglass trunk lid, plastic-composite front fenders and a carbon-fiber roof for the coupe.

The M6 models gets some aerodynamic and appearance tweaks to their exteriors, including quad chrome exhaust tips and 19-inch alloy wheels. The interiors are treated to unique M touches with premium materials and advanced features, as well as prominent M badging.

Bob Golfen, Automotive Editor for SPEED.com, is a veteran auto writer based in Phoenix, Arizona, with a passion for collector cars, car culture and the automotive lifestyle. SPEED.com fans can email Bob Golfen at
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