At 4400 pounds, the M6 isn't as svelte as some of its competitors, but the high-revving engine is more than capable of moving that much weight in a spirited manner, with zero to sixty times in the low five second range and electronically limited top speed well beyond what can be achieved on a track. On the other hand, gas mileage in the V10 is rated at only 11 mpg city and 17 highway.
Some of the technological innovations in the M6 haven't been welcomed by all reviewers. In particular, the seven-speed sequential gearbox with electronically-operated clutches, introduced in 2006, doesn't seem to be quite ready for prime-time. It offers several settings to suit desired performance, and is incredible on the track, but even dialed down, it's clunky in everyday driving. For 2008, BMW's excellent six-speed manual transmission is a no-cost alternative, which may better suit most enthusiasts anyhow.
The styling of the 6-series is thought by many to be the best in the BMW line-up, and the two-door converible has a particularly sleek and graceful look. To set the M6 apart from the standard 6-Series, as well as to improve aerodynamics and road grip, the car is fitted with a distinctive front air dam that channels air flow to the engine and brakes, a rear air diffuser flanked by four tail pipes, sculpted rocker panels and side gills in the front fenders.
The soft-top adds some innovative styling touches, with neat rear fins on either side of the glass rear window that remind one of a classic Ferrari. The rear window actually can be opened just like a side window for a sun-shaded, but breezy drive. In the unlikely event of a roll-over accident, rear roll hoops deploy to protect passengers, which will make the convertible legal for most track-day events.
Track performance is improved with the intelligent electronic M differential and dynamic stability control with selective M Dynamic mode that allows a higher degree of wheel slip before engaging to permit some rear end drift in spirited driving. Electronic damping control also allows the driver to change shock absorber settings to suit driving conditions and intentions. Large brake rotors, nearly 15 inches in diameter are standard.
On the interior, front seat space is quite comfortable and the supportive sports seats are a good choice for spirited driving, but rear seats, though quite comfortable, are fairly limited for taller adults. Trunk space is about average, but a little is given up when the top is stowed. The rear seat backs fold down to form a carpeted luggage shelf with hold-down straps for extra luggage on long trips.
Most luxury features are standard on the M6, including park distance control, leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, eight-speaker audio system, auto-dimming mirrors, xenon adaptive headlamps, and moonroof. The optional Sport Package upgrades the seats, wheels and tires for the more performance-oriented owner. Cutting-edge options include BMW's innovative heads-up windshield display with special M display, radar-managed cruise control, a night-vision screen, navigation, satellite and high-definition radio, and heated front seats.
An important aspect of all this technology is that everything, from audio to ventilation is controlled by the single-knob BMW iDrive system. Opinions differ widely on this system, even with recent improvements. Younger, more computer-savvy, reviewers find no problem mastering the system, while more traditional critics complain about the five or six separate actions required to do a simple task like change a radio channel.
As with all other BMWs in the current line-up, safety features are extensive, including multi-stage front airbags, front-seat mounted side-impact airbags, curtain-style head protection, ABS with brake assist and brake-force distribution, tire-pressure monitors, and the fully-equipped first-aid kit that has always been packed in BMW trunks. BMW's Assist telematics system with automatic collision notification and SOS button.
Some of the technological innovations in the M6 haven't been welcomed by all reviewers. In particular, the seven-speed sequential gearbox with electronically-operated clutches, introduced in 2006, doesn't seem to be quite ready for prime-time. It offers several settings to suit desired performance, and is incredible on the track, but even dialed down, it's clunky in everyday driving. For 2008, BMW's excellent six-speed manual transmission is a no-cost alternative, which may better suit most enthusiasts anyhow.
The styling of the 6-series is thought by many to be the best in the BMW line-up, and the two-door converible has a particularly sleek and graceful look. To set the M6 apart from the standard 6-Series, as well as to improve aerodynamics and road grip, the car is fitted with a distinctive front air dam that channels air flow to the engine and brakes, a rear air diffuser flanked by four tail pipes, sculpted rocker panels and side gills in the front fenders.
The soft-top adds some innovative styling touches, with neat rear fins on either side of the glass rear window that remind one of a classic Ferrari. The rear window actually can be opened just like a side window for a sun-shaded, but breezy drive. In the unlikely event of a roll-over accident, rear roll hoops deploy to protect passengers, which will make the convertible legal for most track-day events.
Track performance is improved with the intelligent electronic M differential and dynamic stability control with selective M Dynamic mode that allows a higher degree of wheel slip before engaging to permit some rear end drift in spirited driving. Electronic damping control also allows the driver to change shock absorber settings to suit driving conditions and intentions. Large brake rotors, nearly 15 inches in diameter are standard.
On the interior, front seat space is quite comfortable and the supportive sports seats are a good choice for spirited driving, but rear seats, though quite comfortable, are fairly limited for taller adults. Trunk space is about average, but a little is given up when the top is stowed. The rear seat backs fold down to form a carpeted luggage shelf with hold-down straps for extra luggage on long trips.
Most luxury features are standard on the M6, including park distance control, leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, eight-speaker audio system, auto-dimming mirrors, xenon adaptive headlamps, and moonroof. The optional Sport Package upgrades the seats, wheels and tires for the more performance-oriented owner. Cutting-edge options include BMW's innovative heads-up windshield display with special M display, radar-managed cruise control, a night-vision screen, navigation, satellite and high-definition radio, and heated front seats.
An important aspect of all this technology is that everything, from audio to ventilation is controlled by the single-knob BMW iDrive system. Opinions differ widely on this system, even with recent improvements. Younger, more computer-savvy, reviewers find no problem mastering the system, while more traditional critics complain about the five or six separate actions required to do a simple task like change a radio channel.
As with all other BMWs in the current line-up, safety features are extensive, including multi-stage front airbags, front-seat mounted side-impact airbags, curtain-style head protection, ABS with brake assist and brake-force distribution, tire-pressure monitors, and the fully-equipped first-aid kit that has always been packed in BMW trunks. BMW's Assist telematics system with automatic collision notification and SOS button.
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