2013 BMW M6 Preview

Exterior Features

One look at this car's 19-inch forged light-alloy wheels is all it takes to identify the new 2013 BMW M6. Even if the optional 20-inch wheels are installed, the standard blue or optional gold brake calipers convey that this 6 Series is a performance-tuned M6 model. Additional exterior cues include a unique grille, wider wheel arches, body kit, rear diffuser panel, and quad exhaust outlets. The M6 Coupe is also equipped with a carbon fiber composite roof panel, while the M6 Convertible has a power top that folds down in 19 seconds and raises in 24 seconds, at speeds of up to 25 mph, according to BMW.Interior FeaturesAs one might expect from a premium luxury sport coupe and convertible, the new 2013 BMW M6 is equipped with an extended leather treatment that wraps the multi-function sport seats, steering wheel, dashboard and selected interior panels in premium Merino leather. Carbon fiber trim graces the cabin, and an Anthracite headliner is standard.

Optional Features

The 2013 BMW M6 can be equipped with optional adaptive LED headlights for greater driver visibility at night and a more distinctive appearance. A set of M Carbon-Ceramic brakes is also optional, signified by the aforementioned gold-painted brake calipers, and buyers can elect to have a set of 20-inch forged light-alloy wheels installed.

Under the Hood

The new 2013 BMW M6 is equipped with a direct-injected, twin-turbocharged, 4.4-liter V-8 engine. The engine's peak 560 horsepower is available from 5,750 to 7,000 rpm, and the peak 500 lb.-ft. of torque is available from 1,500 to 5,750 rpm. Redline is 7,200 rpm.

At launch, the M6 will be equipped with BMW's 7-speed M Double-Clutch Transmission (M-DCT). This automated manual gearbox offers automatic and manual driving modes, six Drivelogic shift programs, and delivers power to the M6's rear wheels. BMW says the M6 Coupe accelerates to 60 mph in 4.2 seconds (4.3 for the M6 Convertible).

Fuel Economy

BMW claims that the new 2013 M6 will get 30-percent better fuel economy than the previous V-10-powered 2010 M6 model. Final fuel-economy figures for the U.S. market are not yet available.

Safety

BMW equips the new M6 Coupe and M6 Convertible with a three-stage stability and traction control system that can be tailored to intervene at various thresholds. The standard vented and cross-drilled disc brakes feature 6-piston calipers in front, and offer Cornering Brake Control, Brake Assistant, Brake Fade Compensation, and Brake Drying technology.