Six of the best Beemer's better 6-Series Northern District Times
06.12.09
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THE roll-out of BMW’s efficient dynamics - a low emissions/low fuel consumption program - is almost complete following the introduction of the latest 6 Series coupe and convertible.
The impact on both cars is almost imperceptible but the benefits are plain to see, most obvious being reduced fuel consumption from the big, V8-powered GT sports car.
It’s down by up to 6.8 per cent thanks mainly to regenerative braking that takes pressure off the alternator, de-coupling it under hard acceleration and harvesting electric power every time you apply the brakes.
The car already has a flat undertray for aerodynamic gains and other fuel-saving measures and wheels increase in size to a 19-inch diameter.
Performance remains the same from the 4.8-litre, petrol V8 engine that’s good for 270kW/490Nm output.
Fuel consumption for the coupe is 10.5 litres/100km. The heavier convertible uses more.
Other changes include a new bonnet style with arrow shaped character lines, shadow line windows, dark chrome exhaust tips with a more resonant note and a modified iDrive function controller in the sumptuously equipped cabin.
There’s a wide monitor mounted in the middle of the dash, upgraded global positioning system and a 12 GB audio file system.
BMW offers a choice of four types of leather, an “M” steering wheel and a choice of dash fascia.
On the road, both cars are simply superb to drive, as you would expect for the $227,300 and $245,100 asking price for the hardtop and convertible respectively.
The six-speed automatic offers sport mode for rapid-fire changes through either the stick selector or paddles on the wheel.
The engine revs sweetly to nearly 7000rpm and is capable of pushing the weighty 6 Series from 0-100km/h in 5 secs.
Dynamic Drive networks numerous chassis functions like stability control, traction control and braking and keeps both cars tight to the road through the active steering system.
A heads-up display is positioned directly in front of the driver’s face giving directions, speed and other relevant information.
There’s copious room for both front seat passengers, while the rear two seats are best suited to small children.
It offers supreme luxury at every turn as well as ample hi-tech features including Bluetooth, USB driven navigation - instead of DVD-- an on-board computer and voice recognition to many controls.
The audio system is extraordinary.
BMW has retained a soft top for the convertible despite a trend to hard tops elsewhere, but it adds character to the car and deploys in seconds.
The 6 Series underwent a significant revamp about 18 months ago and sells up against the likes of Mercedes-Benz SL and the Jaguar XK series.
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