2018 BMW M6 Gran Coupe Review

With only one trim level, the M6 Gran Coupe is an exercise in options based on priorities. Maximum comfort on the daily commute or long haul? Check the box for the Executive package, which adds a heated steering wheel and rear seats, ventilated front seats, rear and side window shades, and an exquis...

With adjustable drive settings, an adaptive suspension and an optional manual transmission, the M6 is equally suited to the daily commute or a full-speed romp. But there's no skirting the M6's mass, so agility takes a backseat to insane — and exhilarating — straight-line acceleration.

BMW claims zero-to-60-mph acceleration in 4.1 seconds with the automatic transmission. We've tested a M6 convertible and effectively verified that number, achieving 60 mph in a blazing 4.2 seconds.

In our testing, the M6 convertible slowed from 60 to zero mph in 108 feet, a very good result for a 4,495-pound car.

In our test of the M6 convertible, our driver noted that the car has "real ability" but offers so little steering and suspension feedback that it's "difficult to find and drive the car at its limits." Bulk and mass also hinder the M6's ability to handle like a precision instrument.

With adjustable drive settings, an adaptive suspension and an optional manual transmission, the M6 is equally suited to the daily commute or a full-speed romp. But there's no skirting the M6's mass, so agility takes a backseat to insane — and exhilarating — straight-line acceleration.

The adaptive suspension, adjustable steering and throttle settings, excellent seats and luxury interior appointments make for a car that is supremely comfortable regardless of road surface. The backseat is big enough for two adults, but headroom is limited.

Compared to a 5 Series, the M6 has a more driver-centric and stylish design. The dash joins gracefully with a large center console for a wraparound feel. We like the intuitive controls and excellent materials quality. But the coupelike roofline makes entry and exit harder for rear passengers.

With just 12 cubic feet of trunk space, the M6 Gran Coupe isn't a particularly useful car, unless your primary use is simply driving blazingly fast. The split, fold-down rear seat and center pass-through help with longer, bulkier objects.

BMW's iDrive sets the bar for imitators in its wake, and for good reason. The controls, especially when paired with the 10.2-inch display, are easily accessible and easily navigable while driving. New additions for 2018 include onboard Wi-Fi connection and wireless device charging.

The navigation system with the 10.2-inch display comes standard. Outstanding power and clarity with either the Harman Kardon or the Bang & Olufsen sound system

A mobile phone connection enables access to ConnectedDrive services through the display screen (Google search, route planning, travel and news information, among other conveniences). Apple CarPlay is optional, but no Android Auto yet.

Standard aids include parking sensors, adaptive cruise control and headlights, and a rearview camera. More desirable features — front collision/lane departure/blind-spot warnings; side- and top-view cameras, night vision with pedestrian detection — are within option packages.