The BMW M6 Coupe offers track-quality performance in the company's most attractive body style. Designed in 2006, it melds the upscale four-passenger luxury of the 6-Series coupe with BMW's race-developed 500 horsepower V10 engine, high-tech suspension, and the same extensive list of innovations as available on the 6-Series. The only drawbacks identified by reviewers are inherent in that technology. In particular, the seven-speed sequential gearbox (SMG) with electronically-operated clutches, introduced in 2006, doesn't appeal to everyone. Starting in 2008, BMW's regular six-speed manual transmission is a no-cost alternative, which may better suit some enthusiasts. For ultimate performance, however, the SMG winds hands down, making it suited to track use. Performance and efficiency | |
5.0-liter, 40-valve V-10 engine with M high-pressure Double-VANOS "steplessly" variable valve timing | 10 individual throttle butterflies, electronically controlled |
G-sensitive semi-dry-sump lubrication system | Oil coolant heat exchanger |
Digital Motor Electronics (DME) with on-board diagnostics | 3-way catalytic converter with heated oxygen sensor |
7-speed Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG) with drivelogic |
Handling, ride and braking | |
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with M Dynamic Mode (MDM) | All Season Traction with M Variable Differential Lock |
Vehicle-speed-sensitive variable-assist power steering (M Servotronic) with M Driving Dynamics Control (2 settings throttle and steering) | Aluminum double-pivot strut-type front suspension and 4-link integral rear suspension |
Independent suspension with M calibration (stiffened dampers, springs and anti-roll bars; modified rear axle geometry) | Electronic Damping Control with Comfort, Normal and Sport mode |
Lightweight, double-joint spring strut front axle with aluminum crossbar | Lightweight integral rear axle |
4-wheel BMW M vacuum-assisted ventilated, cross-drilled anti-lock compound disc brakes (ABS) |