For buyers who believe that performance cars should only have two doors, BMW serves up the M6, a twin-turbo V8 coupe based on the more conservative midsize 5-Series. The M6 possesses as much athleticism as mechanically possible within the context of a roomy and luxurious four-seater.
What's New for 2014
Every M6 now gets satellite radio and automatic soft-close doors standard. A six-speed manual joins the equipment list as a no-cost option for buyers who like to do all the shifting themselves. Most significant is the new Competition Package, which wrings every last bit of power and handling out of the M6’s architecture.
Choosing Your BMW M6
Most available equipment is distilled down to three option packages:
- Competition: Enhances the M6’s performance with 15 extra horsepower, racing-spec suspension and steering systems, sporty exhaust tuning, and upgraded tires on 20-inch wheels.
- Executive: Offers the additional luxury of massaging and ventilating front seats, a power rear sunshade, a heated steering wheel, a head-up display and full LED headlights.
- Driver Assistance Plus: Adds active collision detection and avoidance features, speed limit info, and top- and side-view cameras
Among the few standalone options are carbon ceramic brakes, Bang & Olufsen surround sound and night vision with pedestrian detection.
At 20 mpg on the highway and 14 in the city, the M6 is quite efficient for a car of its might. Alas, it still gets hit with a $1,300 gas guzzler tax. The 6-speed manual boosts mileage by about 1 mpg, reducing the tax to $1,000.