For 2007, the M6 gets a tire pressure monitor. Late-model 2007 M6s will be available with a six-speed manual transmission as a no-cost alternative to the standard seven-speed Sequential Manual Gearbox. The SMG substitutes an electronically operated clutch for the regular clutch pedal, and we don't love it. We recommend getting the six-speed manual.
Both coupes and convertibles have a back seat that can fit small people in a pinch, but are really intended to move two people and their belongings in high comfort, style and safety. The 650i is more luxurious than the Z4, and delivers higher performance, more agility and sportier styling than the 5 Series sports sedans.
The M6 sacrifices some of the Grand Touring comforts of the 650i in favor of a more aggressive handling package and stratospheric acceleration performance. At the same time, the M6, and especially its sequential manual transmission, takes the marque in a direction purists find distressing, increasingly transferring control of the car from its driver to its super-sophisticated electronics.
More generally, and more generously, BMW's corporate design themes, panned by many in recent years, seem to fit better on the long, low 6 Series. And an intricate top design blesses the convertible with the same, nicely integrated, fastback-like profile as the coupe. Next Page