BMW has just dropped some new high-res photos of the new 2013 M6 Coupe and Convertible for your wallpaper needs. Feel free to browse through our updated gallery by clicking on one of the thumbnails above.

Check out our original post on the 2013 BMW M6.

Refresher: The 2013 BMW M6 Coupe and Convertible are both powered by a 4.4 liter high-revving V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo Technology making 560 hp at 5,750 – 7,000 rpm with a maximum torque of 500 lb-ft (680 Nm) between 1,500 and 5,750 rpm. The rev limiter comes in at 7,200 rpm. Mated to a 7-speed M Double Clutch Transmission with Drivelogic, 0 to 62 mph comes in at 4.2 seconds for the coupe and 4.3 seconds for the convertible. Top speed on both models is limited to 155 mph.

- By: Omar Rana

“Like its sedan brother the M5, the new M6 models are high-performance sports cars whose exceptional dynamic potential is geared squarely towards the demands of track use,” BMW said in a statement. “At the same time, the M6 sets new benchmarks in daily driving comfort, innovative features and fuel efficiency.”

The four-seat 2013 BMW M6 Coupe and Convertible are both powered by the 4.4 liter high-revving V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo Technology making 560 hp at 5,750 – 7,000 rpm with a maximum torque of 500 lb-ft (680 Nm) between 1,500 and 5,750 rpm. The rev limiter comes in at 7,200 rpm. Mated to a 7-speed M Double Clutch Transmission with Drivelogic, 0 to 62 mph comes in at 4.2 seconds for the coupe and 4.3 seconds for the convertible. 0 to 124 mph takes just 12.6 seconds for the coupe and 13.1 seconds for the drop-top M6. Top speed on both models is limited to 155 mph.

While the output and performance of the 2013 BMW M6 has been pumped up over its predecessors, the new model consumers roughly 30 percent less fuel due to the introduction of new BMW EfficientDynamics technologies including Brake Energy Regeneration and the Auto Start-Stop function.

The BMW M6 Convertible will hit dealerships in June 2012 as a 2012 model year, while the M6 Coupe will arrive in dealerships in the late summer of 2012 as a 2013 model year. Pricing, EPA fuel-economy ratings, standard and optional equipment will be announced at a later date.

- By: Omar Rana

BMW of North America has announced pricing details of the new 2013 BMW 640i Gran Coupe, which will hit dealerships early summer. The 2013 640i Gran Coupe will set you back a total of $76,895.

The BMW 640i Gran Coupe will be powered by a 3.0 liter 6-cylinder TwinPower Turbo engine making 315-hp at 5,800 to 6,000 rpm and a peak torque of 330 lb-ft between 1,300 and 4,500 rpm. That allows 0 to 62 mph to come in just 5.4 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph.

Later in the summer the 2013 BMW 650i Gran Coupe and the all-wheel-drive 650i xDrive Gran Coupe will join the line. Prices of those model will be announced closer to launch date.

Click here for our original post on the 2013 BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe.

Refresher: The 2013 BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe will be available in the United States in three models including the 640i Gran Coupe, which will be available early summer 2012. The 650i Gran Coupe and the 650i Gran Coupe xDrive will join the range later in the summer. The BMW 640i Gran Coupe will be powered by a 3.0 liter 6-cylinder TwinPower Turbo engine making 315-hp at 5,800 to 6,000 rpm and a peak torque of 330 lb-ft between 1,300 and 4,500 rpm. That allows 0 to 62 mph to come in just 5.4 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph. The 650i Gran Coupe models will be powered by a 4.4 liter twin-turbo V8 making  445-hp between 5,500 and 6,000 rpm with a maximum torque of 480 lb-ft between 2,000 and 4,500 rpm. 0 to 62 mph comes in 4.6 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph.

- By: Omar Rana

So far, Russell disproved that the rumors regarding whether BMW will produce a supercar to compete with the likes of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, the Audi R8 and the Lexus LFA, because BMW doesn’t feel the need to produce a car on that level. That’s because it wouldn’t exactly make a feasible business case to make papa corporate BMW happy—for whatever reason.

As a refresher, some of you may remember that BMW had once produced a very super exclusive GT car, the E31 8-Series, which debuted in 1989. At that time, the 8-Series was way ahead of its time and it was something that would be called a technological showcase. It was a car that fully embodied the corporate philosophy of the Roundel while also showcasing the direction that BMW was taking with their automobiles. Jam-packed with all sorts of new technology, the BMW 8-Series was a very important car for the brand and represented their move forward into the 1990s. It was their massive leap forward. That said, I pointed this out to Matt Russell and asked him, what if BMW took the same approach with a new supercar like they did with the 8-Series?

In his response, Russell said: “That’s a really fair question and I love it. The BMW 8-Series is something that I’m very passionate about and it definitely was a technology and style showcase. If I remember correctly, the ad slogan for the 8-Series was: ‘If a car company can have a soul, this is ours,’ and that’s something I’ll never forget. But in our product lineup, the 8-Series was technically succeeded and replaced by the 6-Series, several years after the 8 ended production in 1999. That said, we feel the 6-Series does a great job at fulfilling the same mission of the 8-Series, as being a head-turner and a luxurious two-plus-two very well,” Russell explained. “Obviously with technology and the advancement of time, for instance, the 650i drives much better than the top-of-the-line 850CSi from 1995—it’s just the sad fact and reality of time as we move on.”

Ever since the 8-Series was finally placed in the pages of history in 1999, rumors still floated about regarding an 8-Series successor, which coincided with the rumors of a BMW supercar that would be similar to the concept of the M8 Prototype, BMW M’s attempt at the ultimate 8-Series at the time. But after what Russell said, he explained that we’ve essentially had a successor to the M8 Prototype.

“The M8 is a car I’ve loved ever since I knew BMWs. But today, there’s the M6, a car that we truly think, fills the mission of the M8 Prototype. There’s absolutely no question about it. However, we won’t be talking about the new M6 probably until the first quarter of 2012. But, there is a new M6, you all have seen it in testing and development. If anything, this new M6 really is a modern day interpretation and as good of an M8-type car as the original concept. It should answer all of the questions anyone has about a BMW supercar.”

Obviously though, unlike the original M8 Prototype, which had a completely reworked version of the brand’s at the time S70 V12—the same engine design that served as a starting point for the McLaren F1’s V12 (though Russell clearly pointed out, they are not exactly the same)—the M6 for the second generation had the E60 M5’s S85 Formula 1-derived V10. Despite the engine differences, Russell still spoke passionately about V12s while discussing the M6 carrying the same mission as the M8 Prototype.

“I love V12s. I think we have one of the best V12s in the industry right now, and I’d love a chance to put that engine in other cars, especially M-bred cars. However, our mission now, both BMW and M, is to increase performance while we increase efficiency. It’s an overriding mission for the company—to not be wasteful, and that’s why the new M5 is 30% more efficient while being 10% more powerful than the outgoing one. That said, it wouldn’t make a case to put a V12 in another car at this time.”

Though Matt was not able to talk much about the new M6 as he said that BMW was first focusing on the release of the standard 6-Series. But it is safe to assume from the previous M6, which had its 5.0L V10 and 7-speed SMG cog swapper carried over from the E60 M5, will do the same for this new generation and utilize the new F10 M5′s 4.4L TwinPower twin-turbocharged V8.

“Our thing that we do better than anyone else is front-engined, rear-wheel drive. They are the best [front-engined, rear-wheel drive] cars in the world as far as I’m concerned, dynamically speaking and ergonomically. If we did a supercar, would it need to be mid-engined? I don’t think so at all. I think that our front-engined and rear-drive dynamics are so good that we could stick with that formula. I love the fact that our cars are the best drift cars from the factory in the world and I’m convinced that they are. And the press have backed me up on that. We have that ability and I don’t ever want to lose that. I love the fact that you can work on car control skills in our cars, better than any other. So I’m really sold on the formula and concept of the front-engine and rear-wheel drive layout.”

I was able to speak very passionately with Matt about his love for the M-Division and its history with the utmost praise through this topic. A key to further easing my fear that nearly all car companies will turn into soulless corporate bean counters, especially the one of the few brands that continues to be supportive of the enthusiast. But my fear was only relieved to tension. Russell also emphasized that if he had the choice, he would let his engineers and boffins at the M-Division go buck wild to produce all of the mad machines demanded by the whims of both the engineers and the enthusiasts. But, he understandably and simply pointed out, there’s a cap for everything. BMW has to have a real reason to produce a certain car, it would have to prove to be a worthy business case. And he said this while discussing the possibility of a 1-Series M-Coupe successor for the next generation of 1-Series.

As per my interpretation, I am very much a BMW enthusiast myself so I’m familiar with the demands of the enthusiasts and their scrutiny of the brand. But I felt that Russell is not the one to blame if one were to criticize the brand. He is very much in touch with the BMW M as us enthusiasts are. And really, he was giving me an encouraging message to extend to all of you who want BMW M to make a car like the ones we’ve discussed, be it a 1-Series M-Coupe or a halo R8/LFA/SLS competitor a la the 8. And make sure you read this clearly: SCREAM LOUDER.

- By: Chris Chin

Despite being very late to the punch, BMW shocked the world with the introduction of their first ever Mercedes-Benz CLS fighter, the new 6-Series GranCoupe. And of course, knowing BMW’s trends and their resourceful M-Division, we couldn’t help but ponder about the very possibility of an M version. Of course, by now, we would assume that it’s inevitable. And our assumptions have apparently come true because some spy photos have hit the Interwebs and it appears BMW’s already testing an M6 GranCoupe.

Click here for our original post on the 2013 BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe.

Considering how tightly knit parts sharing is amongst the M-Division, it’s safe to assume that the M6 GranCoupe—or the M6 in general—will receive the new F10 M5’s twin-turbocharged 4.4L V8 good for 552hp and 501 lb-ft of torque. The power will most likely be channeled through the M5’s seven-speed dual-clutch cog swapper.

So far, rumor has it that the new M6 GranCoupe will be launched in 2013 with the launch of the standard M6 preceding it.

Refresher: The 2013 BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe will be available in the United States in three models including the 640i Gran Coupe, which will be available early summer 2012. The 650i Gran Coupe and the 650i Gran Coupe xDrive will join the range later in the summer. The BMW 640i Gran Coupe will be powered by a 3.0 liter 6-cylinder TwinPower Turbo engine making 315-hp at 5,800 to 6,000 rpm and a peak torque of 330 lb-ft between 1,300 and 4,500 rpm. That allows 0 to 62 mph to come in just 5.4 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph. The 650i Gran Coupe models will be powered by a 4.4 liter twin-turbo V8 making  445-hp between 5,500 and 6,000 rpm with a maximum torque of 480 lb-ft between 2,000 and 4,500 rpm. 0 to 62 mph comes in 4.6 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph.

- By: Chris Chin

Source: AutoCar

A bunch of videos of the new 2013 BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe have hit the web for your viewing pleasure.

The first video shows Vice President Brand Communication, Andreas-Christoph Hofmann, the exterior designer of the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe, Nader Faghihzadeh and the interior designer of the new model, Christian Bauer.

The other two give you a closer look at the exterior and interior of the 6-Series Gran Coupe.

Click here for our original post on the 2013 BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe.

Check out the videos after the jump.

Refresher: The 2013 BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe will be available in the United States in three models including the 640i Gran Coupe, which will be available early summer 2012. The 650i Gran Coupe and the 650i Gran Coupe xDrive will join the range later in the summer. The BMW 640i Gran Coupe will be powered by a 3.0 liter 6-cylinder TwinPower Turbo engine making 315-hp at 5,800 to 6,000 rpm and a peak torque of 330 lb-ft between 1,300 and 4,500 rpm. That allows 0 to 62 mph to come in just 5.4 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph. The 650i Gran Coupe models will be powered by a 4.4 liter twin-turbo V8 making  445-hp between 5,500 and 6,000 rpm with a maximum torque of 480 lb-ft between 2,000 and 4,500 rpm. 0 to 62 mph comes in 4.6 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph.

- By: Omar Rana

BMW has released a bunch of new images of the 2013 6-Series Gran Coupe for your wallpaper needs. Check out our updated gallery for your new high-res photos of BMW’s latest model.

Click here for our original post on the 2013 BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe.

Refresher: The 2013 BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe will be available in the United States in three models including the 640i Gran Coupe, which will be available early summer 2012. The 650i Gran Coupe and the 650i Gran Coupe xDrive will join the range later in the summer. The BMW 640i Gran Coupe will be powered by a 3.0 liter 6-cylinder TwinPower Turbo engine making 315-hp at 5,800 to 6,000 rpm and a peak torque of 330 lb-ft between 1,300 and 4,500 rpm. That allows 0 to 62 mph to come in just 5.4 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph. The 650i Gran Coupe models will be powered by a 4.4 liter twin-turbo V8 making  445-hp between 5,500 and 6,000 rpm with a maximum torque of 480 lb-ft between 2,000 and 4,500 rpm. 0 to 62 mph comes in 4.6 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph.

- By: Omar Rana

Over the weekend, BMW surprised us with the debut of the 2013 BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe. We now have the first images and details of the 6 Series Gran Coupe M Sport Package, which will be available from the model’s early summer launch along with the BMW Individual Package.

The BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe M Sport Package will offer the M body kit consisting of sport front, side and rear fascia along with black chrome exhaust tips, black-painted brake callipers, LED foglamps, a sports exhaust system for the BMW 650i Gran Coupe and 19-inch light-alloy wheels in M double-spoke design. 20-inch light-alloy wheels in M double-spoke design are also available as an upgrade.

Exterior paint finishes for the M Sport Package on the 6 Gran Coupe include Carbon Black metallic and Imola Red non-metallic.

Inside, the 6 Series Gran Coupe M Sport Package adds M Alcantara/leather sports seats with blue contrast stitching, an M leather steering wheel and aluminium hexagon interior trim. Of course you also get M door sill plates.

Click here for our original post on the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe.

The BMW Individual Package (shown in the original pictures released over the weekend) allows those customers who want a little more personalization to add tailored and custom finishes to the exterior and interior. Buyers will have the choice of BMW Individual paint, light alloy V-Spoke wheels, Merino full leather trim, wood inalys and much more.

All the items in the BMW Individual range can also be ordered as individual options.

Refresher: The 2013 BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe will be available in three models including the 640i, 650i and 650i xDrive. Power for the 640i Gran Coupe comes from a 3.0 liter 6-cylinder TwinPower Turbo engine making 315-hp at 5,800 to 6,000 rpm and a peak torque of 330 lb-ft between 1,300 and 4,500 rpm. That allows 0 to 62 mph to come in just 5.4 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph. The 650i Gran Coupe is powered by a 4.4 liter twin-turbo V8 making  445-hp between 5,500 and 6,000 rpm with a maximum torque of 480 lb-ft between 2,000 and 4,500 rpm. 0 to 62 mph comes in 4.6 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph.

- By: Omar Rana

“Harmonious proportions, precise lines and sleekly contoured surfaces give the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe the unique ability to satisfy the driver who wants a luxurious and sporty coupe yet needs a car capable of carrying four adults in comfort and luxury,” BMW said in a statement.”

So did BMW just take the 6 Series an extra door? Not really. The new 6 Series Gran Coupe stands at a length of 197 inches and sits on a wheelbase measuring 116.8 inches. That makes it 4.4 inches longer than the 2-door coupe 6. The Gran Coupe also stands 74.6 inches wide and 54.8 inches in height. Compare it to the 5-Series, the Gran Coupe is 4.0 inches longer, 1.3 inches wider and 2.8 inches lower. Trunk space comes in at 16.24 cubic feet.

Features include a new bright white Adaptive LED Headlights, BMW Connected Driver, rear-view camera, surround view, Parking Assistant, BMW Night Vision, Lane Departure Warning, Active Blind Spot Detection, new generation BMW Head-Up Display – most of those can be controlled through the BMW iDrive system, which also features navigation, communications and infotainment functions. Finally there is an optional Bang & Olufsen sound system.

In the United States the 2013 BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe will be available in three distinct models including the 640i Gran Coupe, which will be available early summer 2012. The 650i Gran Coupe and the 650i Gran Coupe xDrive will join the range later in the summer.

The 2013 BMW 640i Gran Coupe will be powered by the companies N55 3.0 liter 6-cylinder TwinPower Turbo engine making 315-hp at 5,800 to 6,000 rpm and a peak torque of 330 lb-ft between 1,300 and 4,500 rpm. That allows 0 to 62 mph to come in just 5.4 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph.

The 650i Gran Coupe models will be powered by BMW’s 4.4 liter twin-turbo V8 making  445-hp between 5,500 and 6,000 rpm with a maximum torque of 480 lb-ft between 2,000 and 4,500 rpm. 0 to 62 mph comes in 4.6 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph.

Both engines are mated to BMW’s 8-speed Sport Automatic transmission with steering wheel mounted shift paddles on the standard Sport leather steering wheel. Drivers will also get BMW’s Driving Dynamics Control with ECO PRO mode allowing for different driving modes including ECO PRO, COMFORT+, COMFORT, SPORT and SPORT+.

While official EPA figures will be announced closer to launch, BMW says that the 6 Gran Coupe will get Brake Energy Regeneration, engine Auto Start-Stop, and other EfficientDynamic technologies to increase fuel-efficiency.

Production of the 2013 BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe will be taken care of alongside its other 6 Series siblings at the plant in Dingolfing, Germany. Prices and other details will be announced closer to launch date.

- By: Omar Rana

Since the debut of the B7 Bi-Turbo, engineers at Alpina have been working on the system’s turbo charging and intercooler system. The engine now makes an impressive 540-hp at 5,500 rpm with a maximum torque of 516 lb-ft at 3,000 rpm.

“Two turbo-chargers configured in parallel, each feeding one of the two cylinder banks, with specially developed large diameter exhaust-turbines allow this engine configuration to provide both exceptional power output and an abundance of torque over an especially broad rpm range while maintaining excellent throttle response at low rpm,” Alpina said in a statement.

The engine is mated to an advanced ZF SWITCH-TRONIC 8-speed Sport Automatic Transmission, the Alpina BMW B6 Bi-Turbo Coupe is capable of sprinting from 0 to 62 mph in 4.4 seconds with a top speed of 198 mph.

Of course, all that performance and power is useful without a nice sound. Alpina teamed up with Akrapovic on the development of a lightweight exhaust system made from high-strength titanium. The exhaust system makes a deep, sonorous 8-cylinder sound – powerful, sporty, but not too obtrusive, due to intelligent, controllable exhaust valves.

I’m in love.

- By: Omar Rana

Here is a photo rendering of what the next-generation BMW M6 could look like and we’re guessing it’s pretty close to the real thing.

Power for the 2013 BMW M6 is likely to come from the same engine as the M5 –  a 4.4L V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo making 560-hp between 6,000 and 7,000 rpm with a maximum torque of 502 lb-ft from 1,500 rpm. It will also be mated to the company’s  7-speed M Double Clutch Transmission Drivelogic.

Rumors suggest that the new BMW M6 may even push closer to 600-hp – but we doubt that will happen.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: BMWBlog

AC Schnitzer added fender trim, a front apron with a chrome grille, boot lid spoiler and a rear apron housing a new diffuser. The lowered suspension leaves room for a set of 21-inch wheels that weight 25.3 lbs. A set of breaks have also been included in the kit with 8-piston calipers.

Interior mods include aluminum pedals, upgraded trim, and a sports steering wheel.

Power gets a significant boost up to 540-hp, up from the 4.4-liter V8’s stock output of 407hp.

Overall, this is a solid effort from the German tuner, with a nice power upgrade and an attractive styling package.

- By: Alexandra Koken

You may have seen 2 or 3 of these vehicles on the road already (BMW 6-Series, Volkswagen Passat, Volkswagen Beetle) but most of them won’t hit your local dealership until early 2012.

Some of the vehicles that the egmCarTech team is looking forward to test-drive are the Audi A6, BMW M5, Chevrolet Malibu, Honda CR-V, Hyundai Azera, Lexus GS, Porsche 911 and the Toyota Yaris.

Check out the complete list after the jump or circle through the photo gallery to see what you should (or shouldn’t) be waiting for.

Check out the list after the jump.

Top 16 Redesigned Vehicles You’ll See in 2012 (Alphabetical Order):

• 2012 Audi A6
• 2012 BMW 6-Series
• 2012 BMW M5
• 2013 Chevrolet Malibu
• 2013 Ford Taurus
• 2013 Honda CR-V
• 2013 Hyundai Azera
• 2013 Lexus GS
• 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML
• 2012 Nissan Versa
• 2012 Porsche 911 Carrera / Porsche 911 Carrera S
• 2012 Subaru Impreza
• 2012 Toyota Camry
• 2012 Toyota Yaris
• 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
• 2012 Volkswagen Passat

- By: Omar Rana

BMW has announced pricing on the new 6-cylinder 2012 640i Coupe and Convertible. Both models are currently in production and will hit dealerships in October.

The 2012 BMW 640i Coupe starts at $74,475, while the 2012 640i Convertible starts at $81,975. Those price tags come in a whole $9,400 less than their V8 650i counterparts. However, while the 2012 BMW 650i models are now available with xDrive all-wheel-drive, the 640i models are not.

Click here for more news on the BMW 6-Series.

The 2012 BMW 640i is powered by a 3.0 liter twin-scroll, turbocharged 6-cylinder making 315-hp and 330 lb-ft of torque. The engine is mated exclusively to BMW’s 8-speed automatic Sport and Manual shift modes and Adaptive Transmission.

While you may be giving up some power and a manual transmission, the BMW 640i can be optioned out with the same gadgets and gizmos as its V8 650i brother.

- By: Omar Rana

The 2012 BMW 650i xDrive Coupe starts at $86,000, while the 2012 BMW 650i xDrive Convertible starts at $93,500. Both models cost $3,000 more than their rear-wheel-drive counterparts.

BMW says the all-wheel-driver versions of the 6-series are actually faster than the rear-drive versions. How much faster? About a a tenth of a second faster from 0 to 60 mph for the convertible and two-tenths faster in the coupe.

Click here for more news on the BMW 6-Series.

Refresher: Power for the 2012 BMW 650i Coupe comes from a the company’s 4.4L twin-turbo V8 engine making 400-hp between 5,500 and 6,400 rpm with a maximum torque of 450 lb-ft between 1,750 and 4,500 rpm. Mated to BMW’s new 8-speed Sport Automatic gearbox or the traditional 6-speed manual transmission, the 2012 650i Coupe goes from 0 to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: BMW

Power for the Alpina BMW B6 Bi-Turbo Convertible’s twin-turbo V8 makes 507-hp at 5,500 rpm with a maximum torque of 516 lb-ft. Mated to a ZF SWITCH-TRONIC 8-speed Sport Automatic Transmission, the Alpina BMW B6 Bi-Turbo goes from 0 to 62 mph in 4.8 seconds with a top speed of 193 mph.

Click here for more news on the BMW 6-Series Convertible.

The Alpina BMW B6 Bi-Turbo Convertible also features a new suspension technologies with Drive Performance Control (electronically adjustable dampers) and Dynamic Drive (active roll stabilisation) as standard. The system offers a range of different driving modes including Comfort+, Comfort, Sport and Sport+.

Basically, if you can’t wait for the BMW M6 – this is your solution for now.

Hit the jump for the press release and check out the high-res gallery by clicking one of the thumbnails above.

———

Press Release:

Alpina BMW B6 Bi-Turbo Convertible

High-performance convertibles are automobiles for real connoisseurs. They combine characteristics whose sole purpose is to give driver and passengers maximum pleasure. In doing so they combine the best qualities of their related species, so that they may be experienced even more directly and tangibly with the top down. The beguiling performance, powerful drive and fantastic sound of super sports cars. The elegance, dynamics and attractive lines of grand coupés. The luxury, comfort and cruising ability of refined luxury sedans. Generally speaking, qualities that have long characterised ALPINA automobiles. It therefore comes as no surprise to learn that the new ALPINA BMW B6 Bi-Turbo Convertible offers a special experience for all the senses.

DRIVE – First class performance and economy

The all-aluminium V8 power plant produces 507hp (373kW) at a moderate 5500rpm, with a maximum torque of 700Nm between 3000rpm – 4750rpm. Two turbo-chargers configured in parallel, each feeding one of the two cylinder banks, with specially developed large diameter exhaust-turbines allow this engine configuration to provide both exceptional power output and an abundance of torque over an especially broad rpm range while maintaining excellent throttle response at low rpm.

The comprehensive high-performance cooling system comprises an indirect inter-cooling system (air-to-water/water-to-air) with short intake tracts and increased inter-cooler flow. The systems excellent thermodynamic efficiency is guaranteed by a large-volume low-temperature inter-cooler radiator, as well as two water-toair inter-coolers placed close to the engine. High-performance MAHLE pistons are designed specifically to deal with temperatures and pressures associated with up to 1.0 bar charging and the engine’s 9.2:1 nominal compression ratio. Altogether this results in an impressive specific output of 115.3 horsepower (85kW) per litre and a mean total compression of 20.1 bar.

Direct injection and Double-VANOS contribute to the B6 Bi-Turbo’s class-leading consumption and emission figures: 10.9l/100km (25.9mpg) and 255g/km CO2 (Combined, measured according to ECE Norm).

TRANSMISSION – Eight-Speed All-Rounder

Adapted and tested in co-operation with ZF, the advanced SWITCH-TRONIC 8-speed Sport Automatic Transmission sets benchmarks. With ALPINA’s philosophy the guiding credo, engineers have spent thousands of development and test hours ensuring that no other performance automatic transmission comes close to providing this level of both comfort and performance.

The blend of eight speeds and plenty of torque makes for unparalleled comfortable gear changes with no noticeable interruption to the delivery of power – only the accompanying acoustics and the dynamic rev counter provide feedback as to the workings of the transmission. 700Nm of torque means the B6 Bi-Turbo excels at cruising along at speed in a high gear at minimum rpm, benefiting both consumption and comfort.

Using the Sport (S) Shift Mode a completely different character emerges: the transmission is crisp and unmistakably immediate. The innovative single-cylinder fadeout (known as ‘Einzelzylinderausblendung’ in German) enables super quick up-shifts which take just milliseconds. Depending on the load on the transmission, the injection of fuel into a given cylinder is interrupted for a fraction of a second, creating the required reduction in torque that the automatic transmission needs for the up-shift. The advantages versus the typical method of timing retardation are noticeably quicker shifts, improved thermo-dynamic efficiency due to reduced exhaust temperatures and lower fuel consumption. Each up-shift is accompanied by a deep back-pressure burble.

The SWITCH-TRONIC buttons, for use in the Manual (M) Shift Mode, are ergonomically and unobstrusively positioned on the back of the steering wheel, and allow the driver to take complete control of the transmission. The system allows for multi-simultaneous down-shifts in milliseconds, hereby the transmission will skip several gears depending on engine loads and rpm. In this manner the 8-speed Sport Automatic Transmission with ALPINA SWITCH-TRONIC reveals itself as extremely multi-faceted, providing the right shift characteristic for any and all situations.

The Automatic Up-Shift function means that the transmission will up-shift into a higher gear once a certain rpm threshold has been passed in the current gear. In certain driving situations this may not be desired, for example during especially sporty driving or for example when encountering multiple tight hair-pin corners. The simultaneous selection of either Sport, Sport+ or DSC OFF Mode using the Drive Dynamic Control button and the selection of the M Shift Mode (transmission) will deactivate the automatic up-shift funtion. The transmission will hold the selected gear up to maximum rpm’s (electronically limited) and will not automatically up-shift into a higher gear.

The intelligent coupling of state-of-the-art engine and transmission technologies give the ALPINA BMW B6 Bi-Turbo Convertible stunning performance figures: 0-100km/h in 4.8s, and a top speed of 311km/h.

EXHAUST SYSTEM – Pure-bred, Sonorous, Lightweight

Special consideration was given to the development of the exhaust system in the ALPINA BMW B6 Bi-Turbo Convertible. A person’s sense of hearing is particularly heightened when driving with the top down and almost craves for a fantastic sound experience. For the first time, ALPINA has collaborated with Akrapovic on the development of a lightweight exhaust system made from high-strength titanium. Faithful to the guiding principle of ‘form follows function’, the entire system is noted not only for its acoustics and appearance, but also for its technical refinements. In addition to a weight-saving of 50% compared to the conventional use of stainless steel, the exhaust system also boasts impressive technical details. The engineers from ALPINA and Akrapovic have achieved quite a feat, managing to retain a diameter of 2 x 70mm throughout the entire length of the exhaust system, despite the tricky ‘packaging’. In conjunction with further design refinements, exhaust back-pressure is reduced to an absolute minimum.

In interaction with the powerful engine, the exhaust system generates a backdrop of deep, sonorous eight-cylinder sound – powerful, sporty, but never obtrusive, due to intelligent, controllable exhaust valves. These offer the driver a special degree of influence over the sound experience, and can be controlled using the Drive Performance Control. In Comfort+ and Comfort Mode the valves are closed, opening at 3000rpm, regardless of the selected gear. In 1st and 2nd gear decisive use of the accelerator will cause the valves to open (at approx. 60% load) and the B6 Bi-Turbo to elicit a special symphony from the tailpipes during dynamic bursts of acceleration. As befits the character of the B6 Bi-Turbo in Sport and Sport+ Modes, the exhaust valves remain open at all times.

CHASSIS – Dynamic Comfort

High-performance convertibles place special demands on their chassis – requiring distinct levels of comfort for easy cruising, safe and neutral handling at top speed, and light-footed agility for the moments in between. In order to do justice to this broad spectrum of requirements, the new ALPINA BMW B6 Bi-Turbo Convertible features the latest electronic suspension technologies and comes with Drive Performance Control (electronically adjustable dampers) and Dynamic Drive (active roll stabilisation) as standard.

This system has been artfully calibrated by ALPINA and is tied into other system parameters controlling steering assistance, torque cushioning and the Dynamic Stability Control system. Featuring pronounced Comfort+, Comfort, Sport and Sport+ modes, the B6 Bi-Turbo transitions effortlessly from cultivated luxury convertible to thorough-bred sports car. Specific springs, increased front wheel camber and a subtle adjustment of the toe-in in conjunction with a 20″ wheel-tyre combination all serve to produce a very agile chassis set-up. The lightweight 20″ ALPINA CLASSIC wheels, with MICHELIN PILOT SUPER SPORT tyres in the dimensions 255/35 ZR20 front and 285/30 ZR20 rear, contribute significantly to the direct handling and precise steering. Conventional tyres are used to promote ride comfort.

DESIGN EXTERIOR – Exciting Details, Functional Aerodynamics

The BMW 6 Series is marked by an elegant and dynamic design as well as excellent aerodynamic properties. ALPINA gives the new B6 Bi-Turbo a unique, powerful appearance which elegantly underlines the sporty character of this beautiful convertible.

The exterior components that influence the aerodynamic properties of the B6 Bi-Turbo are not just there for aesthetic reasons – their design is subject primarily to functional premises and plays a considerable role in achieving both the top speed and in reducing fuel consumption. Take for example the front spoiler with the integrated carbon fibre front splitter. It causes more air to flow over and around the vehicle, simultaneously reducing the air masses which flow underneath by more than 10%. This leads to a noticeable stabilisation of the front-end at high speeds and plays a role in reducing any tendencies to understeer. The front spoiler, in conjunction with the rear spoiler, ensures that the B6 Bi-Turbo is very well ‘tethered’ overall. Uplift on the front axle is reduced by 14% and tends towards a value of zero on the rear axle from a speed of 150 km/h.

In addition to an improvement in the CX values, these components also ensure the effective flow of air to various cooler groups, such as the inter-coolers and engine cooling system. One special detail: the high-performance brakes, with a diameter of 374mm front and 345mm rear, are additionally supplied with cooling air by a specially constructed NACA air intake on the front underbody.

The double tailpipes, with a slightly elliptical shape in typical ALPINA style, are designed in titanium and carry small logos that make discreet reference to the origins of the ALPINA exhaust system made by Akrapovic. The rear valence, which attractively and elegantly frames the outlet of the tailpipes, additionally integrates the features of a diffuser.

INTERIOR & EQUIPMENT – Master Craftsmanship, Exclusive Personalisation

Blue ALPINA instruments with high resolution information display with black panel LCD technology. A sport steering wheel, hand-stitched in LAVALINA leather. Blue illuminated entry sills with logo. Or the classic ALPINA exotic wood equipment in myrtle – an exclusive burl wood of the laurel family, which grows only on the Pacific coast of the USA. These are just some of the elegant features of the interior that point to the exclusive origins of the B6 Bi-Turbo Cabrio – just for connoisseurs.

Naturally, no limits are set on the personal predilections of customers. From the paintwork to the interior trims to the colour of the upholstery – everything offered by the extensive BMW and ALPINA equipment range is available. Seldom does a BMW ALPINA leave Buchloe without making use of the virtually limitless personalisation options offered by the ALPINA Manufaktur. Our philosophy dictates that the customer can design his or her own individual interior – made by skilled craftsmen in our leather workshop.

The ALPINA BMW B6 Bi-Turbo Convertible features an extensive range of standard equipment, including leather upholstery, fully adjustable comfort seats with heating system, navigation system with preparation for Bluetooth mobile phone, USB audio interface, Xenon lights and LED fog lights.

- By: Omar Rana

Styling upgrades include a variety of wheel and tire options, in both 21- and 22- inches. Interior selections are also highly customizable, with custom floor mats, petals and headrests. The suspension has been dropped by 30mm and a new front spoiler and rear apron have been added, along with side skirts.

Engine modifications bring power up to 510 horses for the turbo, and Hamann also adds a Sport Exhaust system with four tailpipes.

We like it – how about you?

Check out the press release after the jump and the high-res gallery above.

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Press Release:

World premiere at the IAA – 64th International Motor Show

The HAMANN refinement program for the BMW 6 Series Cabriolet

For the second generation of the BMW 6 Series Cabriolets, HAMANN-Motorsport will present fascinating customization options at the 64th International Motor Show, the IAA in Frankfurt, Germany The difference between the standard production and HAMANN’s customization can be seen at first glance: More dynamic, more style, and clearly more exclusivity, this is how the HAMANN Cabriolet presents itself when compared with the production model.

However that is not all – HAMANN can do much more than make a car look “pretty”.

The tuning specialist from Laupheim, Germany has been developing and producing individualized BMW automobiles since 1986. The HAMANN engineers have been benefiting from hundreds of successfully introduced motor sport applications. The experience gained is the base for the development of HAMANN Performance Products. The result: A powerful performance enhancement, distinctive 22-inch alloy rims, stylish modifications of the interior, and aerodynamic components that reduce the car’s lift.

HAMANN perfectly attunes the individual components of the chassis package already at the design stages. This results in an exciting styling format with optimized airflow across the vehicle’s silhouette. The new LED daytime running lights ensure an appearance that is unmistakable and at the same time provide positive points when it comes to active safety. The sporty-dynamic front spoiler in connection with the rear apron as well as the rear spoiler’s profile reduces lift and generates a new, attractive overall appearance. The HAMANN side skirts provide for a visual and aerodynamic link between the front and rear.

The HAMANN rim program can fulfill nearly all individual requests from its BMW 6 Series customers. Whether you like it sporty, distinctive, elegant, or classy – HAMANN can offer you a variety of wheel designs and sizes.

A one-piece wheel, the ANNIVERSARY EVO, is offered as 21-inch design. The recommended front wheel/tyre combination of this exclusive rim design is available as 9Jx21 inch wheel with 265/30 ZR 22 tyres. The rear is fitted with 11.0Jx21 inch rims to be used with 295/25ZR21 tyres.

An additional highlight of this program is the three-piece HAMANN alu wheel called the EDITION RACE “ANODIZED”. The matte black anodised spokes and the titanium bolts of the highly polished rim flange emphasise the racing character. Using the latest forging technology, the rims are extremely light and improve handling, acceleration, and deceleration behaviour due to reduced, unsprung masses. The wheel/tyre combination is offered with 9Jx21 inch wheels and 255/30ZR21 tyres in the front. The rear is fitted with 11Jx21 rims and tyres size 295/25ZR21. The HAMANN Sport Maxx tyres supplied by technology partner Dunlop provide the necessary grip to the road.

The special suspension that lowers the sport cabriolet’s center of gravity up to 30 mm adds to the sporty appearance.

The turbo engine that will be boosted to an impressive 510 hp is already on the drawing board. The HAMANN Sport Exhaust System with four stainless steel tail pipes provides the roaring sound effects.

In addition to the existing, factory-supplied interior design, HAMANN Accessories offers components made of the finest black anodise aluminium. Upon request, HAMANN can produce anything your heart’s desires – from personalised foot mats to embroidered headrests or even fitting the entire interior with the finest leathers – all made with the highest degree of craftsmanship and precision

- By: Alexandra Koken

At the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show, AC Schnitzer will debut its modification package for the BMW 650i Convertible that will upgrade power from 400-hp to 540-hp. That will give the 2012 BMW 650i the ability to go from 0 to 62 mph in 4.4 seconds (0 to 60 mph in 4.3 seconds). Top speed is increased from 155 mph to 192 mph.

Click here for more news on the BMW 6-Series.

Visual upgrades include a new front spoiler, chromed front grille and chrome decor strips, a rear skirt insert, and a range of 21-inch wheels. Inside, the AC Schnitzer tuned BMW 650i convertible gets trim painted in matte space grey, a sports steering wheel, AC Schnitzer ‘Black Line’ aluminum cover for the i-Drive system controller and the AC Schnitzer aluminum foot rests and pedals. Buyers will also get boot and foot mats in velours.

- By: Omar Rana