2016 BMW 6 Series boosts M6 and adds customs

BMW has brought its new 6 Series range along to Detroit, using the auto show to reveal a sleek sedan, performance drop-top, and a new M6 Coupe. The 2016 6 Series will be available in three body styles, with a four-door Gran Coupe for those who demand usable space in the rear for four, and a more traditional Coupe and Convertible for those who don't so much care for those in the back. However, of the new line-up, it's perhaps the M6 which will get most attention.

M-badged models will be available across all three body styles, though BMW only brought along the Coupe to Detroit. Still, it's enough to be going on: 19-inch light-alloy wheels as standard, with 20-inch options, LED headlamps – now standard across the 6 Series – and an M-specific double-bar kidney grille.

There's also a unique body kit and M gills. Most important, perhaps, is the engine: a 4.4-liter, BMW M TwinPower Turbo V8 good for 560 HP and 500 lb-ft of torque.

It's mated to either a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed M Double Clutch Transmission with Drivelogic. Performance is 0-60 mph in 4.0 seconds for the Coupe and Gran Coupe, or 4.3 seconds for the Convertible.

BMW M6 Coupe

Meanwhile, the 6 Series Coupe, Convertible and Gran Coupe will launch in the US in 650i and 640i form.For the 650i, that means a BMW TwinPower Turbo V8 good for 445 HP and 480 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed Steptronic sport automatic transmission.

As for the 640i Coupe, Convertible and Gran Coupe, they get the TwinPower Turbo inline six, good for 315 HP and 330 lb-ft of torque. As before, there's an 8-speed Steptronic sport automatic transmission.

BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe

BMW says the 650i should be good for 0 to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds, while the 640i will do the same thing in 5.2 seconds.

For the first time, BMW will be offering an individualization option across the cars. Buyers will be able to pick from a wide range of options, including different leather types and finishes, custom colors, and more.

All of the new 6 Series models will arrive in the US from Q2 2015.

BMW 6 Series Convertible