(continued from above)
The BMW M6 Coupe will arrive at US BMW Centers in the late Summer of 2012 as a
2013 model. US Pricing, technical specification, EPA mileage ratings, standard
and optional equipment will be announced closer to the on-sale date.
In order to achieve their lofty performance goals, the new BMW M6 Coupe and
Convertible share the most powerful engine ever fitted in a series-produced
model from BMW M GmbH mated to a high-torque 7-speed M-Double Clutch
Transmission (M-DCT). An innovative Active M Differential which optimizes power
transfer between the rear wheels. This drivetrain, combined with extensive
chassis and suspension upgrades ensure that the engine's performance can be
transferred to the ground.
2013 M6's Exterior Design
Classical proportions, the sporty yet elegant lines of the BMW 6 Series and the
familiar design language of BMW M Automobiles form the foundations for the body
design of the BMW M6 Coupe and Convertible. Powerfully taut surfaces and precise
contours underline the athletic aura of the two models. In addition, a
model-specific interpretation of hallmark M styling cues includes design details
which are influenced directly by technical considerations - such as the cooling
air required, chassis geometry and aerodynamics - and therefore further
highlight the cars' outstanding performance attributes.
Wide air intakes, stunningly contoured headlight units and large, smooth
surfaces shape the front view of the new BMW M6 Coupe and Convertible. Another
eye-catching element of the car's nose is its newly designed M kidney grille,
which bears an "M6" badge - an homage to the first generation M6. The grille's
black, paired kidney grille slats take their cues from the characteristic
double-spoke design of the M light-alloy wheels. The 30 millimeter (1.2 inch)
increase in track width over the two cars' respective 6 Series stablemates is
complemented by powerfully flared front wheel arches, which sit flush with the
wheels. This extra width offers a clear nod to the optimized roadholding of
these high-performance sports cars. The three-dimensional shaping of their air
intakes and race-inspired flaps designed to control airflow to the outer air
intakes also underlines the cars' forward-surging, dynamic character.
An LED accent light cuts across the tops of the standard Adaptive Xenon
Headlights. The bright white, three-dimensional LED corona rings are leveled off
to striking effect at the top and lower edges. Adaptive LED Headlights are
available as an option on both M6 models. The LED sources in these headlights
are placed on a horizontal rib running through the center of the units and feed
their light into the reflectors in front of them. This ensures that the
distinctive appearance of the twin circular headlights comes across clearly in
every situation. The turn signals - in the form of horizontally arranged LED
units - are integrated into the headlight units below the light rings.
The familiar M athleticism of both models is also clearly visible from the side.
The front fenders feature familiar M gills. Their three-dimensional shape, wide
chrome frames and indicator bars - which bear the M logo - give them an
extremely deep-set look. In tune with the wider wheel arches, the character
lines around the gills are suitably prominent. Eye-catching creases on the
model-specific side skirts sweep upwards, diverting the gaze to the rear wheels.
The new BMW M6 Coupe and BMW M6 Convertible are fitted with standard 19-inch M
light-alloy wheels. These forged wheels feature seven double-spokes in a
two-tone finish. The optional 20-inch M light-alloy wheels, meanwhile, hint at
reduced weight with their five slender double-spokes and allow a clear line of
sight through to the powerful brake system.
The design of the rear hints at the stable roadholding and powerful poise of the
new BMW M6 models by presenting a view that broadens towards the lower section
and incorporates several horizontal lines. The reflectors, positioned
immediately below the L-shaped rear lights, provide an individual expression of
sportiness. However, the clearest pointer to the unmistakable identity of the
two high-performance sports cars are the familiar M quad exhaust tailpipes
positioned on either side of the diffuser integrated into the lower area of the
rear fascia.
The 2013 BMW M6 Coupe features a contoured roof made from carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP).
BMW M6 Coupe: Review (2/2)
