2019 BMW M6

For a number of years, the M6 was BMW’s most powerful two-door model. The lineup later expanded with the addition of a four-door Gran Coupe version that shared its turbo V8 with coupe and convertible models.

For 2019, the M6 Gran Coupe is the only one left as BMW has effectively replaced the coupe and convertible models with the more potent M8. That’s the M version of the reborn 8 Series, with a V8 and nifty AWD system borrowed from the latest M5 sedan.

The M6 Gran Coupe is carried over from 2018 with a twin-turbo 4.4L V8 that makes 552 hp and 502 lb-ft of torque. It comes matched with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that can be swapped out for a six-speed manual. Automatic cars can also be optioned with a Competition package that bumps horsepower up to 591. Unlike most modern BMW models, the M6 goes without the company’s xDrive all-wheel drive system and puts all its power to the rear wheels.

That’s contrary to the approach of competitors like the Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG and Audi RS 7, both of which are standard with AWD. The most passionate drivers will appreciate the purity of steering feel that comes with front wheels tasked with nothing but steering. However, we feel like any car with close to 600 hp benefits from AWD’s traction advantages, even on dry roads.

We’re actually not all that sad about the loss of the M6 coupe and convertible models. Despite the semantic weirdness BMW gets into with its various four-door coupes, the Gran Coupe is our favourite variant for its combination of massive speed and a surprisingly practical interior, considering the severe angle of the rear roofline.

The M6 Gran Coupe comes standard with adaptive HID headlights, electric parking brake, heated windshield washers, front and rear park assist, auto-dimming mirrors, power-adjustable steering column, dual-zone automatic climate control, head-up display, radar cruise control and 20-inch wheels.

In lesser cars, that’s where the list would end. But BMW knows M6 buyers will (because they can) pay dearly for extras, which include paint colours that add $1,000 or $2,000 to the price. A full Merino leather interior is a $6,000 add, and a Bang and Olufsen stereo is $5,000. Then there’s the Ultimate package, which bundles a bunch of options into one for $25,500.

BMW’s fuel consumption estimates are 17.3/11.6 L/100 km (city/highway).