2010 BMW M6 Review

overall rating
average
Live Life Drive Rating
Price
RM938,000
Installment
RM8,946/mth

2010 BMW M6 at a glance

The 2010 BMW M6 combines an exhilarating drive with breathtaking performance. The race-car acceleration, powerful braking and melodious soundtrack are highlights. Pity the unintelligent SMG gearbox, however.

2010 BMW M6 quick specs

Body Style Coupe
Class Sports/GT
Assembled -
Engine Range -
Fuel Options -
Seating Capacity 2+2

2010 BMW M6 ratings (overall rating : 3.5/5.0)

Styling
Handling
Comfort
Quality + Reliability
Performance
Roominess
Running Costs
Value for Money
Equipment
Environment

Styling

The 6-Series's styling is one of the best among BMW models. The somewhat radical BMW design language complements its sporty intent well. For the 2010 BMW M6, the 'shark-like' front end comes with a deep front apron and large air intake vents to cool the massive V10. Distinctive skirts and side air gills, complete with M badges, decorate the sleek side profile. Add four exhaust pipes, rear hexagonal diffuser, and increased rear track width, and BMW has one handsome coupe brimming with sporty intent and visual aggression.

Handling

The BMW M6 essentially is a hardcore version of the very drivable BMW 6-Series. Based on the capable 6-Series chassis, the 2010 BMW M6's grip levels are extraordinary, while the steering is accurate and plentiful on feedback. Much credit for the agile handling must be attributed to the aluminium chassis and other lightweight materials. Modern technologies such as M Dynamic mode and variable M differential lock serve to optimise handling while keeping the 2010 BMW M6 composed through corners and fast bends.

Comfort

Ride comfort bears the brunt of the large 19-inch wheels and firm M sports suspension over uneven surfaces. Three different modes can be chosen to vary the comfort and handling balance. Wind noise is well-subdued, but the large tyres produce some noticeable road noise at higher speeds. The V10 engine is extremely vocal, growling loudly, almost melodiously. Drivers can choose from a multitude of adjustments for the steering wheel and supportive seats to make themselves comfortable. Controls, however, need time to familiarise before use.

Quality + Reliability

As with the BMW 6-Series, the 2010 BMW M6's cabin is beautifully designed and well put together. There are some differences though with a more attractive trim, M badges abound, and some extra switches. Cabin materials and fit-and-finish are top-notch, while the logically-placed controls provide for good ergonomics, but the iDrive system can be more intuitive to use. Proven switchgear and running gear in the 2010 BMW M6 should uphold BMW's reputation for reliability, although the great deal of electronic complexity does increase the odds of having problems.

Performance

What lies underneath the 2010 BMW M6's bonnet is, of course, BMW's flagship engine—the 5.0-litre V10 produces 507 bhp and 520 Nm. Equipped with the seven-speed SMG gearbox with close ratios, the 2010 BMW M6 feels powerful from standstill to 8250 rpm, effortlessly achieving 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds. The V10 engine is certainly free-revving, but its strong mid-range punch negates the need to go near the rev-limit. The SMG gearbox, however, can get choppy in various modes and needs getting used to for the best performance.

Roominess

While the 2010 BMW M6 is considered a two-plus-two, the low-slung design inhibits interior room, meaning the rear is mostly suitable for kids or bags. Adults, even those of smaller sizes, will find it tough getting comfortable behind. Predictably, the driver and front passenger enjoy plenty of head- and leg-room. The usefully-shaped boot scores well with 450 litres of loading space, accommodating two golf club sets with space to spare.

Running Costs

The V10 engine can get real thirsty, with the official figure at 6.8 km/litre. Any maintenance will be costly, but typically long service intervals and good reliability should mitigate the expense. Road tax already costs RM 11,125.50, but insurance will be much more due to the BMW M6 being a sports car and its high price tag. The BMW M6's desirability and reputable predecessors should keep its residual values relatively strong, but buyers looking for more practicality should turn to the BMW M5 instead.

Value for Money

There are many capable rivals in this segment, such as the Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG, Maserati GranTurismo, Jaguar XK Coupe and Porsche 911. The 2010 BMW M6 is cheaper than all except the XK Coupe. With the quite amazing V10 engine and brilliant handling under its belt, and being an equally competent long-distance tourer, the 2010 BMW M6 makes an excellent case for itself. But for potential buyers—just ensure you can live with missing out on legendary brands like Porsche, Maserati and Jaguar.

Equipment

The 2010 BMW M6 gets 19-inch M alloy wheels, cruise control, head-up display, Park Distance Control (PDC), high-beam assist, adaptive headlights, xenon headlights, automatic climate control, M leather steering wheel with SMG paddles, M seats, BMW navigation system with colour monitor and iDrive controller, and Hi-Fi system. The comprehensive safety kit includes Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), which comprises anti-lock braking system and traction control, plus front, side and head airbags.

Environment

It is hard to care for the environment when the 2010 BMW M6 is spewing 342 grams/km of carbon dioxide, and gulping down 14.8 litres of petrol per 100 km. And to make things worse, the 2010 BMW M6's drivability is likely to push the actual figures beyond the official ones.

Live Life Drive Verdict

Quite amazing V10 engine
Brilliant handling
High-tech gadget intensive
Stiff ride
Unintelligent SMG gearbox
Feels less special than rivals

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