This then is a new M car built for a new era. And I love it! This M6 is very difficult to compare to the previous generation E64 M6, since – from my viewpoint at least – they have nothing in common but the BMW emblem. They come from different eras and different philosophies. The new M6 is more of a revolution than an evolution.
BMW has returned to its classic design, and slowly but surely, the Chris Bangle styling (the marque’s former Chief Designer) is starting to disappear. The new M6 looks very elegant and expensive without being overly shouty: it is a huge coupe with a lot of presence and character. The interior is what you expect from BMW, being very well made and high tech and includes neat little details like the red, and blue stitching on the steering wheel that matches the vehicle’s ‘M’ badge.
Both generations are capable of speeds in excess of 330kph (delimited), in the new M6, acceleration feels so relaxed and tame, its seven-speed double clutch transmission DCT bringing with it much smoother gear changes than its predecessor.
Plus the new turbo engine is a beast, with great low-end torque and a large power band mated to the seven-speed DCT box. It is a very capable all rounder. When driving, you hardly notice it being a forced induction engine, and the powerplant remains as responsive as its naturally aspirated elder brother. The way it delivers its power to the ground through the trick differential is just epic: in the corners, you’re just waiting with glee for the power to bite.
The new M6 is like a tamed Rottweiler, civilized when you want it to be, and aggressive when you need it to be. The older M6 on the other hand was like a pit bull that didn’t like being tamed: it just wanted to be ferocious – and fast – all the time. The new M6 is very driver-oriented and a true GT. Capable of long distances with comfort and fun, but with a bigger fuel tank and an engine that is more efficient by 30%: you can have a lot of fun without feeling guilty about C02 levels melting the ice in the north pole.
