BMW has released initial details of its new M6 Coupé and Convertible, set to make their world debut at next month's Geneva Motor Show. Unsurprisingly, the heart of the new M6 is the very same engine you'll find under the bonnet of the latest
BMW M5.
By way of reminder, it's a twin turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 crammed full of tech such as twin scroll turbocharging, variable valve control and direct injection. Peak power of 560hp is produced from 6,000- to 7,000rpm, while up to 680Nm of torque is available between 1,500- 5,740rpm. It's bolted to BMW M's version of the seven-speed dual clutch gearbox (M DCT), which as ever features various modes of operation and tactile paddles for changing gear.
Use the standard launch control and you'll hit 62mph from rest in 4.2 seconds in the M6 Coupé, with the Convertible taking a mere 0.1 seconds longer. That's despite the considerable 1,850kg kerb weight of the car. An electronic limiter stops play at 155mph, unless you opt for the M Driver's Package, which allows the car to reach 189mph.
Elsewhere, it's pretty much as per the BMW M5, which means a generous specification that includes satnav, a high-end stereo, active seats, internet access, adaptive LED headlights with high beam assistant, night vision, rear camera, leather upholstery with sports seats, etc. The list goes on. One item on the options list that we'd like to see as standard is the carbon ceramic brake package, denoted by gold-painted brake calipers.
Visually, the new M6 builds on the already striking 6 Series M Sport look with more aggressive bumpers and detailing, the characteristic quad-pipe exhaust system, a rear diffuser, 'M' gills, big alloys (19-inch as standard, 20-inch as an option) and a contoured carbon fibre roof - the latter on the Coupé only of course.
We expect to see the new BMW M6 in the UK by September, costing from about £94,000 for the Coupé to £99,000 for the open-top version. It's possible that the new M6 Gran Coupé will be unveiled by then too, as the regular BMW 6 Series Gran Coupé debuts in Geneva.
Click here for the BMW M6 Convertible gallery.
Shane O' Donoghue - 13 Feb 2012
