New BMW M6 2012-2013 coupe & convertible revealed

BMW has revealed the new 2012 M6 - the hottest version of the 6 Series - in both coupe and convertible form. Using the same 418kW 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 as the BMW M5, it rushes from 0-100km/h in 4.2 seconds.

Visually, the new BMW M6 has been beefed up to both hone the aerodynamics and also ensure the twin turbos are fed with enough fresh air. It is much more muscular than the standard 6 Series.

The 418kW BMW M TwinPower Turbo engine has its two turbos mounted within the vee of the engine, for near-instant throttle response. It has direct fuel injection, Valvetronic variable valve timing and Double VANOS variable camshaft control. It can rev to 7,200rpm - 'unusually high for a turbocharged engine' says BMW.

BMW will sell an M6 Convertible alongside the coupe from launch. Despite being heavier, it is barely any slower: the top speed is identical and 0-100km/h takes just 0.1 seconds more.

BMW's EfficientDynamics programme sees the new M6 feature engine stop-start, brake energy regeneration and active aerodynamics. The twin-turbo V8 is also inherently more fuel-efficient than the old 5.0-litre V10.