Why the 2013 M6 lacks the technology of the 2013 650i

As I was thinking of placing an order for the new M6, I realize that a lot of the technology tidbits you can't get on it that is on the regular 640i/650i models. Things such as: Active Cruise Control, Parking Assistant, and Integral Active Steering. I'm wondering if anyone knows why these aren't options on the M6? Both the M6 and the 640i/650i have the same radar sensors, and cameras. The only upswing to the tech for the M6 though is the Speed Limit Info now available for the US. Any thoughts?

I'm thinking it has to do with the M differential and the performance modifications the make to the car. These changes probably mean that they'd have to redesign these tech features specifically for the M6. The 650xi doesn't get active steering and parking assistant, and I assume that has to do with the xDrive system - maybe because xDrive uses hydraulic rather than electric steering? Seems like both of these features would be tied to the electric steering, and redesigning for hydraulic would be costly if possible at all. Similarly, I think the M5/M6 use hydraulic steering for improved feedback, so the same rationale would apply.

This is all speculation on my part, but I think it kinda makes sense.

I'm thinking that brilliant German engineering does not transfer to sales/marketing.

The rigidity of the build process for BMWs are IMO always
an exercise in frustration of some sort.

The ONLY answer as what BMW allows and allots per build is the same
answer often given to a child


Because BMW/I said so. That's why.

The Active Cruise Control is absolute buttah.

I would rather have a Dinan tuned 650 over an M6 for that alone. Integral Active Steering is another reason. I love it to death.

I would think a "M" car would be all about performance and much less about the creature comforts. Assuming it is designed for those who want a true high performance "almost race" machine.

I drove the e64 M. Didn't like it at all. I'd go for the Dinan tune over the M as well.

Originally Posted by TopDownInFL

I drove the e64 M. Didn't like it at all. I'd go for the Dinan tune over the M as well.

The new M5 is supposed to be a lot more off-the-track friendly than the old one. I'd imagine the M6 is the same. Gun to my head, I'd take an M6 every time if money were no object. I know its capabilities would be wasted on me, but that's never stopped me before.

Originally Posted by southern6er22

The new M5 is supposed to be a lot more off-the-track friendly than the old one. I'd imagine the M6 is the same. Gun to my head, I'd take an M6 every time if money were no object. I know its capabilities would be wasted on me, but that's never stopped me before.

I think you would take the M6 just for the leather upgrade

Originally Posted by southern6er22

Gun to my head, I'd take an M6 every time if money were no object. I know its capabilities would be wasted on me, but that's never stopped me before.

I have the same exact sentiment for red headed collegiate triplet sisters.

Originally Posted by Itinj6

I think you would take the M6 just for the leather upgrade

Added bonus... but the 560 hp and the 0-60 in likely < 4 seconds is the j!zz in my pants selling point

Originally Posted by JONNYCHIRO

I have the same exact sentiment for red headed collegiate triplet sisters.

Hahahahaha. Maybe fun for a night, but one crazy redhead freshman year got me past my redhead phase. That b!tch was crazy. Luckily my skillz ran her off to OH once I got fed up with her. Now she's in XZLR8's territory

Originally Posted by southern6er22

Hahahahaha. Maybe fun for a night, but one crazy redhead freshman year got me past my redhead phase. That b!tch was crazy. Luckily my skillz ran her off to OH once I got fed up with her. Now she's in XZLR8's territory

Thanks for that.

Originally Posted by southern6er22

Added bonus... but the 560 hp and the 0-60 in likely < 4 seconds is the j!zz in my pants selling point



Hahahahaha. Maybe fun for a night, but one crazy redhead freshman year got me past my redhead phase. That b!tch was crazy. Luckily my skillz ran her off to OH once I got fed up with her. Now she's in XZLR8's territory

So, it won't be a white wedding!?

Southey, PM me ALL details. I'll be on standby w pants off.

It's a nice day to start again!

Originally Posted by XZLR8

Thanks for that.

I'm sorry. I didn't know you then. I apologize for sending such a disaster to Ohio.

Originally Posted by JONNYCHIRO

It's a nice day to start again!

I found sufficient ways to get over it

Although, I have to say, getting a 6er is the best coping mechanism ever. No matter the problem - it fixes it... although I wouldn't give that advice to someone worried about money. My Chevron tab makes my SBUX tab look tiny

Originally Posted by JONNYCHIRO

Southey, PM me ALL details. I'll be on standby w pants off.

I appreciate the 6er solidarity and support, but I don't want any part of that big gulp you were talking about earlier. This was a looooong time ago anyway.

Originally Posted by pan

I would think a "M" car would be all about performance and much less about the creature comforts. Assuming it is designed for those who want a true high performance "almost race" machine.

Pan is correct. BMW is taking ques from Porsche on the M6. They don't want to weigh the car down with too many convenience/luxury features since M is more about high performance. I mean, can you even get a 911 with a start-stop button yet? The whole espritit de corps of the 911 starts with the left-hand key, and the various clicks and clangs you hear when you turn it.