Posted on Tuesday 20 February 2007

BMW is likely to launch a new twin-turbo diesel version of its 6-series coupe when a facelifted version goes on sale later this year. According to CAR Magazine, there’ll be a new 635d model equipped with the same turbocharged 3.0L six-cylinder engine from the 535d sedan.

The efficient motor develops 95% of its torque from as low as 1500rpm and a peak of 413lb-ft. at 2000rpm – more twist than the M6 flagship. Combined with its 272bhp output, the new 635d should accelerate to 60mph from rest in around 6.5 seconds.

With diesel powered cars accounting for the majority of BMW sales in Europe and the popularity of the oil-burners growing in the US, the market is primed to see the introduction of more high-performance diesel cars. Major rival Audi is already confirmed to be releasing its new A5 coupe with a 3.0L TDI engine, and there are also rumors that its R8 sports car could get a 450hp twelve-cylinder diesel engine as well.



Pictured above is an artist’s rendering of what the 6-series facelift could look like.

So do we. CAR Online has learned that BMW will squeeze its mightily impressive twin-turbo diesel into the 6-series later this year. It's the same engine we've come to love in the 5-series - and with a stonking 413lb ft of torque, it's got more muscle than the M6 range-topper.

We won't know more details until the car is announced formally later in the year, but with the 272bhp 3.0-litre diesel six-pot under the bonnet, it's not going to be slow. The 535d donor car can tear to 60mph in 6.5sec and feels even quicker in the mid-range.

It should be the perfect combination for a GT-style coupe, like the 6-series. The new engine will be launched as part of a mid-life shake-up for the Six.

Words: Jack Carfrae