|
By Samuel Ee
Like the way the BMW M5 drives but not too keen on a staid sedan bodystyle? Not to worry. A pair of two-door alternatives are now available - the M6 Coupe and the M6 Convertible. BMW M is the tuned division of the German carmaker and while the M6 Coupe will arrive by year-end, the M6 Convertible is already here.
Even with its outgoing open-top styling, the M6 Convertible is pleasantly subtle for a high-performance model.
Only a few differences immediately catch the eye, such as the M-typical gills - the air intakes - on the flared front fenders, the double dose of twin tailpipes at the back, and of course, the M6 badge on the bootlid.
Of course, there are other M-specific touches to the grille and aerodynamic kit. But what is more interesting are those modifications which can't be seen, such as the chassis with its rigidly mounted rear sub-frame, M suspension and steering and Active M Differential.
As with the M5, the M6 Convertible gets the same powertrain of a 4.4-litre turbocharged V8 under the hood to drive the rear wheels via a seven-speed M Double Clutch transmission (M DCT) with Drivelogic shift programs.
The engine generates 560 hp and 680 Newton-metres of torque and even though the convertible has a higher kerb weight of 2,055 kg compared with the sedan's 1,945 kg, both sprint from zero to 100 kmh in an identical 4.3 seconds.
For the driver behind the attractive three-spoke steering wheel, each dynamic parameter can be individually set with its own button - the engine, steering, dampers and gearbox.
In the most extreme mode for all of them, the M6 can sound angry and move very rapidly. The M DCT is amazingly crisp and the gears seem to bang home without any hesitation when either of the steering wheel-mounted shift paddles is pulled.
Handling is neutral, thanks to the rear differential, which banishes understeer in a fast corner.
But overall, the M6 doesn't feel hardcore. In fact, when driven in Comfort setting throughout, it can almost feel normal despite the potency of the powerplant which is instantaneously summoned by a slight tap of the right foot.
And with the fabric roof neatly folded away, the muted burble of the V8 and the addictive exhaust drone should be music enough for some drivers.
| BMW M6 Convertible |
Price: $575,800 (with COE)
Engine: 4,395cc V8 turbocharged
Gearbox: 7-speed double clutch transmission
Max Power: 560 hp @ 6,000-7,000 rpm
Max Torque: 680 Nm @ 1,500-5,750 rpm
0-100kmh: 4.3 secs
0-200kmh: 13.1 secs
Top speed: 250 kmh
CO2 emissions:239 g/km
Distributor: Munich Automobiles 6899-6996
|
The M6 is also practical because as a large 2+2, it has two very useable rear seats plus a decent-sized boot. Only the higher level of traffic noise invading the M6 Convertible's cabin with the roof up reminds you that this is a soft-top. Some body flex - depending on the road surface - can also be a slight distraction.
But with its good combination of capabilities and comfort, the BMW M6 Convertible is a very desirable ride.
samuelee@sph.com.sg
This article was first published in The Business Times.
Photos: Asia's first look at new BMW M6 convertible
Click on thumbnail to view.
(Photos: BMW, AsiaOne) |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
BMW latest Coupe sells 20 units in first week here
Click on thumbnail to view. (Photos: BMW Asia) |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 
| 
