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M6 Coupe - e63 (2005 - ...) |
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Page 3 of 5 Gearbox & Ride
Like the M5, the new M6 also uses BMW's new third-generation seven speed Sequential
Manual Gearbox (SMG) with Drivelogic. Drivelogic offers the choice of 11 different
change patterns, depending on the speed of change required. Six change patterns
are available in the manual mode and five in the 'automatic' mode, in which
the gearbox will automatically select the most appropriate gear depending on driving
conditions.
The new SMG gearbox also offers safety benefits when downshifting on slippery
surfaces. If it detects the rear wheels locking up, the clutch opens for a fraction
of a second to ensure traction is maintained. Hill Detection is another SMG feature.
In automatic mode, the SMG gearbox recognises that the car is travelling on an
incline and holds gears uphill to maintain acceleration and selects lower gears
when progressing downhill to make the most of the available engine braking.
The suspension of the new M6 is based on the 'standard' 645Ci geometry. With
the exception of components such as tie bars, wheel mounts and bearings, the double-arm
spring strut front axle is made completely of aluminium. The U-shaped front subframe
houses the rack and pinion steering assembly, anti-roll bar and track control
arms.
The Integral IV rear axle assembly is also made from aluminium to reduce unsprung
masses. In addition, the new M6 features BMW's variable, speed-sensing M Differential
Lock. Featured on all current BMW M models, the M Differential Lock builds up
locking action whenever one of the rear wheels begins to spin, channelling drive
to the wheel with the most grip to improve handling and stability.
Electronic Damper Control is also standard on the M6. Offering the driver three
suspension settings - Comfort, Normal and Sport, drivers can select the most appropriate
setting for their driving style or road conditions. The new BMW M6 also features
a BMW M version of Servotronic steering with two specific settings corresponding
to the Electronic Damper Control settings, Sport or Comfort.
BMW's DSC stability control system has been adapted for the M6. Featuring M Dynamic
Mode (first seen on the new M5), drivers can take their cars to the limit of the
laws of physics, allowing considerable angles of controllable oversteer when circumstances
allow.
The new BMW M6 comes with a Power button (pioneered in the M5) in the centre console.
Initially the car pre-selects the P400 setting, delivering 400bhp for town or
city driving, for example. Engaging the Power button modifies the response of
the throttle and enables the P500 setting to deliver the full 507bhp generated
by the V10 engine.
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