BMW M6 Coupe [US] (2013)

The patented cross-bank exhaust manifold, first introduced in the S63 engine of the X5 M / X6 M is also employed in the S63Tü. This exhaust manifold is a special 8-into-4 setup that combines the exhaust from two cylinders (on opposite banks) that are 360 degrees of crankshaft rotation apart from each other. Each of the eight runners is of identical length to ensure perfectly regular timing of exhaust gas pulses.

Each of the four manifold outlets is fed into each of the four available scrolls of the two twin-scroll turbochargers. The two scrolls of a twin-scroll turbo lead each exhaust pulse directly to the turbine without feedback or interference from the other scroll (that are fed by cylinders at other points in the combustion process). Additionally, dividing the gases into two smaller paths (scrolls) results in higher gas velocity than a single larger path. This enhances the turbocharger's response thereby reducing lag. The crossover manifold is configured so that the second scroll of the turbo is fed by two cylinders that are 180 degrees out of phase with the first scroll. In this way each turbocharger receives distinct exhaust pulses every 180 degrees of crankshaft rotation (from one of four cylinders). Furthermore, the two turbos receive exhaust pulses that are 90 degrees offset from each other. The result is that throttle response is sharpened and turbo lag is reduced to a minimum. The new engine also sports larger intake runners, larger air to liquid intercoolers and a tuned exhaust which results in the engine making power more quickly than previously possible. Finally, the S63Tü uses a maximum boost pressure of 1.5 bar (21.7 psi) versus 1.2 bar (17.4 psi) for the S63 engine.

BMW's efficient High Precision direct fuel injection also plays a major role in this engine's combination of high performance and fuel efficiency. High Precision direct fuel injection ensures an extremely precise supply of fuel to the combustion chambers. Injectors positioned centrally between the valves within immediate range of the spark plugs spray the fuel into the combustion chambers with maximum pressure of 200 bar (nearly 3000 psi), providing smooth and clean combustion. Innovative solenoid valve injectors in the new BMW M5/M6 engine use multiple injections per combustion cycle to achieve an extremely precise mixture preparation. The fuel also has a cooling effect on the combustion that allowed the M engineers to endow the engine with a high compression ratio of 10:1. This high compression ratio contributes to both performance and efficiency, while reducing exhaust emissions - and even has a positive effect on engine sound.

Throughout its history, the heart of the BMW M5 and M6 has been its high-revving, high output-per-liter engine fed by individual throttle plates. The new engine introduces VALVETRONIC variable valve control system to a BMW M engine - effectively providing 16 individual throttles.

VALVETRONIC is BMW's patented fully variable valve control system that eliminates the need for conventional throttles. Engine power is instead controlled directly by varying the amount of lift of the intake valves. Pumping losses are minimized with this system and resulting in efficiency and torque improvements. VALVETRONIC has also sharpened the responsiveness of this engine compared to the V10 engine it replaces.

The M TwinPower Technology of the new V8 engine also includes BMW's Double VANOS infinitely-variable valve timing system which optimizes the engine's efficiency and generates high torque at low engine revs. In addition, a volume-controlled oil pump and a range of other EfficientDynamics measures deliver an extra boost to efficiency. The new BMW M5 and M6 feature both Brake Energy Regeneration and the Auto Start-Stop function, which automatically switches off the engine when the car comes to a stop.

The engine's exhilarating thrust gives both models impressive acceleration. The instant power delivery and sustained thrust of the engine results in acceleration of 0 - 60 mph in 4.1 seconds for the Coupe and 4.2 seconds for the Convertible. The top speed of both models is electronically limited to 155 mph (250 km/h). The sprint for the BMW M5 from rest to the 60 mph (0-100 km/h) mark is all over in 4.2 seconds (4.3 for the 6-speed manual) and from that point progress continues with barely any let-up. Maximum speed is electronically restricted to 155 mph (250 km/h). While the engine's output has increased by around 10% and maximum torque is up by more than 30%, the new BMW M5 and M6 models consume roughly 25% less fuel and have a highway range about 34% higher than their predecessors.

M TwinPower Turbo Technology also shapes the development of the V8 engine's soundtrack. The concept of crossover exhaust manifolds plays a key role in delivering a multi-layered collage of sound. The twin-tailpipe exhaust system of the new BMW M5 and M6 runs largely in a straight line and has a large cross section. The two exhaust pipes feed into a single muffler from which the customary M quad tailpipes extend out through the far left and right-hand sides of the rear diffuser.

7-speed M Double Clutch Transmission with Drivelogic

The new V8 engine M TwinPower Turbo engine is mated to a newly developed 7-speed double-clutch transmission designed to handle the high torque and high revving nature of the engine. The M DCT with Drivelogic System developed especially for the new M5 and M6 has been tuned to the performance characteristics of the engine. It delivers exceptionally fast and clean gear changes in both automatic mode (D) and manual mode (S). No clutch pedal is required for manual gearshifts and the driver can keep their foot on the accelerator during gear changes. The driver uses the model-specific M gear selector to choose between D and S mode and to engage reverse. Comfort is further enhanced by the new Low Speed Assistance function, which smoothes power delivery in stop-and-go traffic with a light touch of the accelerator pedal.

The transmission offers a sequential shift pattern for the manual gearshift mode. Alternatively, the driver can also change gears manually using the shift paddles on the newly developed M leather steering wheel, complete with multifunction buttons. In typical M configuration, the driver pulls the right-hand paddle to shift up and the left-hand paddle to shift down. The new M steering wheel stands out with its smaller rim diameter and a design that borrows from the double-spoke design of the M light-alloy wheels.

M DCT with Drivelogic offers three shift programs in both automatic and manual modes. The driver selects his/her desired mode using the rocker switch positioned immediately below the shift lever on the center console. The D1 program is selected automatically when the engine is started, tailoring gear selection to deliver the most efficient possible driving style. D2 mode supports laid-back cruising with gear changes carried out according to engine revs and load. And, to promote a sporty driving style laced with dynamic acceleration, shift times in D3 mode are set up to delay gear changes until the engine has climbed higher up the rev range.

Drivers can also adapt the shift characteristics to their requirements in Manual mode. S1 mode generates comfortable and smooth gear changes. In S2, the gear changes are completed noticeably faster and accompanied by significant shift kick at higher revs. S3 is the one to choose for maximum driving dynamics; it enables even sportier gear changes and is required to initiate the Launch Control function. When the stability control system is switched off, Launch Control allows the driver to achieve maximum acceleration from a standstill as permitted by conditions. During Launch Control acceleration, each gear shift takes place automatically and at the optimum engine speed.

Active M Differential

The Active M Differential in the new BMW M5 and M6 is an electronically controlled multi-plate limited-slip differential programmed to optimize traction, stability and sporting character.

The rear axle's multi-plate limited-slip differential works with high precision and speed. Its control unit is connected with the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system via FlexRay high-speed data transfer technology and constantly cross-checks the data collected by its sensors with the feedback from DSC. It then uses this information to calculate the locking force required to deliver optimum traction and stability. The data recorded by DSC sensors is also passed on if the stability control system is switched off. The locking force within the differential can be varied continuously between 0 and 100%. The ABS system retains full functionality in all situations.

In addition to its own data and that provided by DSC, the Active M Differential's control unit also takes into account the position of the accelerator pedal, the rotational speed of the wheels and the car's yaw rate. Every driving situation is therefore analyzed so that any loss of traction on one side of the car is identified at an early stage. The degree of lock is adjusted as required within a fraction of a second, enabling wheel spin to be prevented on slippery surfaces, when the right and left rear wheel have widely differing friction coefficients and in tight corners. Optimizing traction in this way also provides unbeatable driving stability in challenging conditions and allows impressive dynamic acceleration out of corners.

M-Specific Chassis

Each component in the suspension and chassis of the new BMW M5 and M6 has been developed based on the extensive race expertise of BMW M engineers. In both models, the integral rear axle subframe is directly bolted to the body to maximize body rigidity and handling precision. Reinforced chassis mountings for the front and rear suspension ensure that dynamic forces are passed through to the body structure. Specially tuned axle kinematics and newly developed forged aluminum suspension components boasting impressive strength and minimized weight meet both the requirements of everyday road driving and the specialized demands of track use. The result is that the BMW M5 and BMW M6 continue the BMW M tradition of engineering a chassis that is "faster than the engine". As with every BMW M car, the engineers carried out the fine-tuning during extensive testing on the Nürburgring Nordschleife circuit.

Dynamic Damper Control (DDC) electronically controlled shock absorbers are standard on the new BMW M5/M6. DDC uses electro-hydraulic damping force adjustment to provide a set-up suited to the driving situation and the wishes of the driver. The shock settings can be adjusted at the touch of a button. In "Comfort" mode, they respond adaptively to the condition of the road surface and the driver's style. "Sport" mode activates a noticeably stiffer damper set-up, while "Sport +" allows further stiffening of the suspension to achieve maximum longitudinal and lateral acceleration in ultra-dynamic driving situations.

At the touch of a button, the driver can also select from three settings for the M-specific Servotronic speed-sensitive power steering. "Comfort" mode requires only a small amount of steering force when parking or maneuvering, but still provides the M brand's hallmark direction-changing precision at higher speeds. "Sport" ensures the driver enjoys more intensive feedback across all speed ranges. "Sports Plus" is the highest level of steering dynamics that can be selected where the driver is called on to use even greater force with the steering wheel.

The new BMW M5 and BMW M6 also use BMW's most advanced Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) that include Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), Brake Assistant, brake fade compensation, a Brake Drying function and Start-off Assistant. The DSC system has three levels of operation. The default is "DSC On" which provides the greatest level of stability and traction control. M Dynamic Mode (MDM) can be activated to override the basic setting by pressing the DSC button on the center console. This mode allows for very spirited driving - as on a race track - while still providing a safety net, by raising the intervention thresholds of DSC. "DSC Off" mode can also be activated at the touch of a button for complete deactivation of the system.

High-Performance Brake System

The high-performance braking system of the new BMW M5 and BMW M6 guarantees outstanding stopping power matching the overall performance of the car. The typical BMW M compound rotors have been further improved for the new M5 and M6. These rotors thermally separate the central hub, which is constructed of aluminum for reduced unsprung weight, and the vented/cross drilled cast iron rotors. As a result, the rotors are free to expand and contract without warping. The six-piston fixed calipers are radially bolted to the pivot bearing and are painted dark blue metallic complete with the M logo. Together, the brake system has been tested to provide exceptional performance, fade resistance and pedal feel.

The standard BMW M5 wheel and tire combination is a19 in. M specific light alloy wheels fitted with 265/40 R19 tires in the front and 295/40 R 19 tires at the rear. 20-in. forged M light-alloy wheels can be ordered as an option. The standard M6 wheel and tire combination is a 19 inch M specific light alloy wheels fitted with 265/40 R19 ultra-high performance summer tires in the front and 295/35 R 19 tires at the rear. 20-inch forged M light-alloy wheels can again be ordered as an option.

The new BMW M6 Coupe and Convertible will be the first cars in the history of BMW M to be offered with optional M Carbon-Ceramic brakes (available in 2013). These new brakes are without parallel and take the cars stopping power to another new level - especially at the race track. The brake rotors measure 16.1 inches (410 mm) in diameter at the front and 15.6 inches (396 mm) at the rear. Made from a carbon-fiber ceramic compound, the rotors boast even greater resistance to heat combined with significantly reduced rotating masses. The M Carbon-Ceramic brakes are 42.8 lb (19.4 kg) lighter than the standard brakes, yet the innovative material also displays exceptional resistance to wear, and the operating life of the rotors is many times that of conventional equivalents. The optional M Carbon-Ceramic system also sees six-piston fixed radial calipers at the front teamed with single-piston floating calipers at the rear. The M Carbon-Ceramic system can be easily identified through the wheels by the special gold-colored calipers.

Sports Car Cockpit - Custom Tailored M Drive Buttons

On the left-hand steering wheel spoke, the driver has two M Drive buttons which can be used to call up a pre-configured setup for the BMW M5 and M6. For example, the driver can save a sporty road configuration on the "M1" button and a track focused setup (with all driver aids shut off) on the "M2" button. The set-up selected will remain activated until it is either cancelled by pressing the button again or the driver switches to another M Drive setting. Once the system has been switched off - as when the engine is started - it reverts back to a default configuration focusing on efficiency and ride comfort.

The M Drive system in the new BMW M5 and BMW M6 allows the driver to adjust no fewer than six parameters: the engine management, the response of the Servotronic steering system, the M DCT shift program, the DSC mode, the responses of DDC and the information in the Head-Up Display. The desired settings can be configured in any combination via the iDrive menu or by using the M Drive select buttons on the center console to set the configuration followed by pressing and holding one of the two M Drive buttons for a few seconds (until the configuration is stored). For safety reasons, a setup involving setting MDM mode or "DSC Off" requires confirmation from the driver - by pressing the M Drive button again - before it can be activated. The setup configuration selected is shown by a "M1" or "M2" symbol displayed in the instrument cluster.

M Head-Up Display

The M Drive configuration also includes the information shown on the optional M Head-Up Display and projects important information onto the windshield directly in the driver's field of vision. A full spectrum of colors is used to display graphics and symbols and the all-color capability means road sign symbols can be reproduced very realistically. In addition to a digital speed read-out, the M-specific version of the Head-Up Display also shows the gear currently engaged and a color rev counter symbol, complete with Shift Lights.

Body Structure and Safety

The hallmark M handling and occupant protection both are made possible due to the extraordinary strength of the BMW M5, the BMW M6 Coupe and Convertible body structures. Incredibly, durable load-bearing structures and precisely defined deformation zones keep the forces released in a collision away from the extremely stiff passenger compartment. The new BMW M5 and BMW M6 models include front and side airbags, three-point inertial reel seat belts on all seats, front belt force limiters, seat belt tensioners, and ISOFIX child seat attachments in the rear all as standard equipment. The M6 Coupe also has side curtain head airbags for both rows of seats while the M6 Convertible is equipped with roll-over protection. Positioned behind the rear head restraints, these high-strength aluminum roll bars extend automatically in a fraction of a second should there be a danger of the car rolling over.

The BMW M5 and BMW M6 weight is managed by an intelligent mix of materials containing a high proportion of high-strength and ultra-high strength steel, as well as aluminum. The hood and doors of the new BMW M5 and M6 are made of aluminum. With power-to-weight ratios just north of 7lb/hp, the ultra-high-performance BMW M5 Sedan and M6 models represent a substantial step forward from their predecessor. The front fenders on both models of the M6 are molded from thermoplastic. The M6 Coupe has the signature Carbon Fiber Composite roof panel described earlier. In addition, the trunk lids and - in the case of the BMW M6 Convertible - also the roof compartment cover, are made from the glass fiber composite material SMC (Sheet Molding Compound).

BMW M6 Design: athletic aura, powerfully taut surfaces, elegant lines

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 - complete with 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. Both BMW M6 models come standard with 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.

Dynamic contours, lightweight material: the Carbon Fiber Composite roof of the BMW M6 Coupe

Like its predecessor, the roof of the new BMW M6 Coupe is molded from natural color Carbon Fiber Composite. The dark color of the roof gives the two-door car's silhouette a longer look, which is further emphasized by the dynamic longitudinal character lines unique to the M6 Coupe. The use of the lightweight material for the roof allows the car's center of gravity to be lowered, enhancing agility. The standard BMW Individual High-gloss Shadow Line trim surrounds the side windows (or the waistline in the case of the BMW M6 Convertible) and the base and lower section of the aerodynamically optimized M exterior mirror caps.

The elegant yet aggressive look of the BMW M6 Convertible is underlined by the flying buttress architecture of the high-quality soft-top roof. Projecting into the rear section, the buttresses accentuate the car's dynamically sweeping silhouette. The heated, vertical glass rear window, which is situated just behind the rear seats, retracts independently of the soft-top itself. The automatic opening and closing process for the roof can be activated both at a standstill and while on the move at speeds of up to 25 mph (40 km/h). The standard Comfort Access system allows the roof to be opened or closed by pressing the remote control button on the car key. It takes the roof 19 seconds to open and 24 seconds to close again.

Customers can chose from one non-metallic and eight metallic shades (including four exclusive M finishes) for the exterior paintwork of both models. The soft-top for the new M6 Convertible is available in Black and Beige, or - as an option - in Anthracite Silver effect.

M6: M-specific cockpit design: flawless car control, made-to-measure luxury

The interior of the new BMW M6 brings together the incomparable combination of a driver-oriented cockpit design of a sports car, the spaciousness and luxurious feel of a premium automobile. Newly developed M sports seats, Merino extended leather upholstery, door sills with "M6" lettering, an M driver's footrest, exclusive carbon fiber interior trim and the BMW Individual roof liner in Anthracite are all standard equipment, as is the iDrive control system with a 10.2-inch Control Display. This screen is centrally positioned and like the controls in the central section of the instrument panel, slightly oriented towards the driver.

The new M Multifunction seats offer the driver and front passenger optimum lateral support while cornering, but also a high level of comfort over long distances. The lightweight seats with integrated belt system have an M-specific design headlined by extremely prominent cushion and backrest bolsters, head restraints integrated into the backrests, eye-catching stitching emphasizing the segments of the seats, and an M logo embossed into the shoulder area. The M Multifunction seats have electric height, fore/aft, side bolster and backrest angle adjustment, and also come with pneumatically adjustable lumbar support, a memory function and a manually adjustable thigh support. The M Multifunction seats are fitted with active head restraints to reduce the risk of injury in a rear-end impact.

The instrument cluster with black-panel-technology includes classic circular instruments in traditional BMW M car style, with red needles and white illumination, as well as model-specific displays and the M logo on the rev counter. The shift program currently selected and gear engaged are shown in the center of the instrument cluster. Feedback from all the drive and chassis settings selected at the touch a button are also displayed in the instrument cluster under the tachometer.