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| 2012 BMW M6 Convertible |
In a marked difference from the M6's previous, high-strung V10 engine, the new 2012 BMW M6 gains a twin-turbo V8. Shared with the new M5, the V8 starts unleashing its torque -- up more than 30 percent from the V10 -- from around 1,500 rpm. From there, expect peak power ratings of about 560 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque.
Based on the latest 6 Series, the 2012 BMW M6 Convertible stretches about 3 inches, and the space between its rear wheels grows nearly as wide. This growth spurt promises an even roomier cabin, for which rear-seat riders will likely give thanks. Outside, the M6 looks sharper than its predecessor, with a deeper front airdam and large ducts for engine and brake cooling, wider front fenders and door sills, and quad exhaust pipes.
Somewhere within BMW's M division headquarters, an internal memo circulates that reads, simply, "bigger means badder." We haven't seen it, but we know it exists. How else to explain the 2012 BMW M6? The new high-performance luxury coupe from Munich's ultimate automaker grows in all respects -- size, comfort, practicality -- from its predecessor. For good measure, the new M6 also kicks out a tank-load more power.
But it's the M6's newfound power that truly impresses. It makes the M6 that much harder to dismiss among rivals like the Jaguar XKR or Porsche 911 that are less aesthetically brash. The 2012 BMW M6 convertible arrives in June (the coupe follows in the fall as a 2013 model). Pricing has not been announced, but we expect the convertible to sticker at around $109,000. Check back later for a full report on the 2012 BMW M6 convertible, with additional driving impressions, equipment information and buying advice.
Powertrains and Performance
The rear-wheel-drive 2012 BMW M6 is powered by a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 that generates 560 hp and 500 lb-ft of torque. A seven-speed dual-clutch automated manual transmission will be standard.
BMW says the new package propels the M6 coupe from zero to 62 mph in 4.2 seconds (the convertible will do it in 4.3 seconds). The EPA hasn't released fuel economy results yet, but BMW says the new V8 consumes 30 percent less fuel than the previous V10.
Interior Design and Special Features
The M6 excels at accommodating two passengers, but the rear seat is only suitable for adults on short trips to the restaurant or driving range. Trunk space measures a relatively enormous 12.3 cubic feet in the convertible (10.6 with the top down) and both cars have a pass-through to accommodate longer items. The convertible's heated rear window retracts independently of the soft top, doubling as a wind deflector when the top is dropped. Lowering the soft top takes about 20 seconds; raising it takes just a few seconds longer.
It's not as elegant as the Jaguar XK's streamlined design, but the 2012 BMW M6 interior offers top-shelf materials and craftsmanship in a fitting, cockpit-centric design. Depending on your preference, the center console's high hip line may instill a sense of security or slight claustrophobia. Improvements to successive generations of iDrive make it one of the most intuitive interfaces for controlling phone, navigation and audio functions. The latest upgrade, featuring a 10.2-inch color display, makes cycling through essential menus even easier.
Safety
Standard safety equipment includes four-wheel antilock brakes with advanced standby and drying features, traction and stability control, front-seat side airbags, front knee airbags, active head restraints and BMW Assist. Pop-up roll bars also come standard on the convertible. Carbon-ceramic brakes are a likely option.
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