BMW has unveiled the new 2012 M6 in Munich this past weekend. In essence, a two-door M5, the new super coupe will be one of the latest models to feature at this year’s Geneva Motor Show.
The M6 takes the same bi-turbo 4.4-litre V8, blown to produce a stout 552bhp at 5750rpm and 502lb ft at just 1500rpm. This means no more of the high-revving shriek of the old V10, but this isn’t necessarily a bad thing as the V8 is high on performance, if lacking in some of the fizz of the old V10. As far as speed goes, the coupe passes 62mph in just 4.2 seconds and 124mph (200kph) in 12.6 seconds. Top speed is to 155mph, although the M Driver’s Package will increase that to 189mph.
In addition to the larger engine, the new M6 has a carbonfibre reinforced plastic roof to lower the centre of gravity that was first introduced on the M3 CSL. BMW claims the new M6 is a third less heavy on petrol than before, quoting a 28.5mpg combined economy figure with the seven-speed twin-clutch transmission assisting with this. Switchable dampers come standard and you get the M5′s Active M Differential as standard too. To simplify the multiple choice of which electronic modes to select, you can pre-programme your favourite settings in two M buttons located on the steering wheel.
BMW is making it easier to spot its M cars in future as design chief Adrian van Hooydonk mentioned that the discreet M6 badge on the front grille will become an M mainstay and all future M cars will adopt the M6′s bespoke three-spoke steering wheel.
The BMW M6 will be sold as a coupe or convertible.
