BMW 6 Series (2011 – 2018) Review

BMW 6 Series (2011 – 2018) At A Glance

4/5
Honest John Overall Rating
There are very few cars like the BMW 6 Series Coupe on the road, and while it may have been replaced, it still has an awful lot of positives to make it an attractive option.

+Sleek looks and more handsome than previous 6 Series. Powerful yet economical 640d has an epic engine. Amazingly refined.

-More of a grand tourer than a sports car.

Insurance Groups are between 47–50
On average it achieves 76% of the official MPG figure

Introduced in 2011, and sold until 2018, the BMW 6 Series Coupe is an indulgent and luxurious long-range cruiser. This is a car that can cover huge distances with ease, with those onboard relaxing in leather-lined comfort. The powerful 650i petrol and 640d diesel engines add to the feeling of effortless performance, although the 640i petrol falls a little short. Although described as a four-seater, the 6 Series is best left to just two people. Make use of the back seats for extra storage instead. An impressive level of standard equipment adds to the overall feeling of quality.

The idea of a grand touring car like the BMW 6 Series Coupe is rather a romantic one. Being able to cover hundreds of miles in a single serving, leaving driver and passenger refreshed on arrival, is a big ask. It requires a range of special skills, but the 6 Series manages to deliver them.

One of the criteria for being a true GT is handsome looks, which is something the BMW certainly achieves. Compared to the previous-generation model, the styling of the 6 Series has perfect proportions. A long nose and short tail fit the ‘GT’ brief – it’s arguably one of the most attractive modern BMWs.

One of the most important things to remember about the 6 Series Coupe is not consider it a hardcore sports car.

It may have the looks and the horsepower, but this is not a car for attacking the nearest race track. This BMW is a big vehicle, after all, and it weighs close to two tonnes. Attempting to make it handle twisty turns with zeal would mean challenging the laws of physics. 

It means that the 6 Series Coupe is not on the same page as true sports cars like the Porsche 911. Yet the big BMW will be even more effective as a long-distance machine, racking up the miles with effortless ease. Comparisons with the Maserati Gran Turismo or Jaguar XK are more accurate, although those two models feel even older than the BMW. 

Challenging the suitability of the 6 Series as the perfect grand tourer is the ride quality. M Sport cars may have proved most popular with buyers, but they use a stiffer suspension set-up. Combined with 19-inch alloy wheels and low profile tyres, it results in a taut ride that can become uncomfortable on rough tarmac. Cars with the optional adaptive suspension feel more resolved. 

The choice of engines for the 6 Series Coupe leaves little room for complaint, with a simple choice of two petrols or one diesel. Many buyers have been drawn to the diesel 640d, which offers the muscle to move this large coupe with gusto, but still delivers respectable fuel economy. It will certainly go further on one tank of fuel than the petrol 640i or 650i.

More time on the road means spending longer in the 6 Series Coupe’s cabin. With quality materials and lots of technology, it explains why BMW felt comfortable with the high list prices when this car was new.

Only limited space in the rear seats spoils the party, with room only for small kids in child seats. At least boot capacity is generous for a two-door coupe. 

Even if just simply for commuting to work, the 6 Series has just enough charm and ability to make every journey feel special. Knowing that it can also tackle a long-distance holiday just adds to the appeal.

BMW 6 Series (2011 – 2018) handling and engines

Driving Rating
Measuring close to five metres in length, and tipping the scales at almost two tonnes, the 6 Series Coupe is no lightweight.

BMW 6 Series (2011 – 2018): Handling and ride quality

With expectations adjusted, the 6 Series does deliver on the notion of covering big distances with ease. BMW launched it with the promise of being an exemplary grand tourer, rather than an outright sports car. 

Its steering is light and precise, but does not encourage the driver to have too much fun. Integral Active Steering, allowing all four wheels to steer, was available as an option. It gives better stability at speed, plus improved maneuverability around town. 

SE and Sport versions have the most comfortable ride quality, compared to M Sport cars and their stiffer suspension. The big 19-inch wheels on M Sport models add to the feeling of tautness, and can make the 6 Series feel uncomfortable on rougher roads.

BMW 6 Series (2011 – 2018): Engines

BMW restricted engine choices for the 6 Series Coupe to two petrols and a sole diesel during its lifespan. All UK versions are rear-wheel drive and come fitted with an eight-speed automatic gearbox.

The 3.0-litre turbocharged straight-six in the 640i is the starting point for the petrol duo. With 320PS, it is certainly far from slow, but does not quite have the effortless and muscular feel a grand tourer deserves. It is at least smooth and refined, covering long distances with ease. 

Moving to the petrol 650i ups the performance feel. Initially launched with 407PS, BMW later tweaked the 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged V8 to deliver 450PS. This results in notable increase in performance over the 640i, although running costs and fuel economy do suffer.

Where fuel mileage is a concern, the diesel 640d is the clear winner. A 313PS output from the 3.0-litre turbocharged straight-six tells only half the story, with the diesel torque making a big difference. It makes the 640d feel like a true GT car, with the added bonus of using less fuel.

BMW 6 Series (2011 – 2018): Safety

Although BMW did not have the 6 Series crash tested by Euro NCAP, there is little reason to doubt how safe it will be. The related 5 Series saloon scored the maximum five stars when evaluated, and the 6 Series is packed with safety tech. 

Multiple airbags are fitted as standard, with features like night vision and lane keeping assist available from the options list. The two rear seats feature Isofix attachments for child seats. 

Front and rear parking sensors are standard on all trim levels, which helps given the long nose and restricted rear visibility. A surround-view camera could also be added as an optional extra.

Engine MPG 0-62 CO2
640d 51 mpg 5.3 s 144–145 g/km
640d Automatic 51–52 mpg 5.3 s 145–147 g/km
640i 36–37 mpg 5.3 s 179–181 g/km
640i Automatic 37–37 mpg 5.3 s 179 g/km
650i 32 mpg 4.6 s 206 g/km
650i Automatic 32–32 mpg 4.6 s 206 g/km

Real MPG average for the BMW 6 Series (2011 – 2018)

RealMPG

Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.

Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.

Average performance

76%

Real MPG

23–46 mpg

MPGs submitted

159

BMW 6 Series (2011 – 2018) interior

Interior Rating
BMW ensured the interior of the 6 Series lived up to its quality image. All the materials used throughout feel solid, with no cheap components to be found.
Dimensions
Length 4894 mm
Width 1894–2090 mm
Height 1369 mm
Wheelbase 2855 mm

Full specifications

BMW 6 Series (2011 – 2018): Practicality

On paper the 6 Series Coupe might be a four-seater, but the reality is focused solely on the driver and front-seat passenger. Should you need more space, the related Gran Coupe delivers increased practicality with a four-door design.

The front seats offer plenty of adjustment, and will be supremely comfortable on long journeys. However, the two back seats are best reserved for children, with limited legroom and restricted headroom making them unsuitable for adults.

Thankfully, the boot itself has a 460-litre capacity. Two sets of golf clubs, or luggage for a trip away, will fit inside without a problem. Compared to other grand tourers, this a genuinely impressive amount of storage space. Only the slightly awkward opening angle of the boot lid may cause a few challenges for larger items. The back seats do not split or fold, but a ski bag was available to add from the options list.

BMW 6 Series (2011 – 2018): Quality and finish

BMW ensured the interior of the 6 Series lived up to its quality image. All the materials used throughout feel solid, with no cheap components to be found. 

Leather can be found on the centre console and door armrests, with facelift cars also gaining a leather-clad dashboard. Dakota leather upholstery for the seats was standard, with 650i models getting fancier Nappa leather. 

Brushed aluminium was the standard trim for SE cars, with M Sport versions using sportier hexagonal aluminium detailing. An intriguing ‘Fineline Cognac’ high-gloss finish was used for the rare Sport. A ceramic finish could be specified for the gear lever, iDrive controller and climate control dials to keep them cool in direct sunlight.

BMW 6 Series (2011 – 2018): Infotainment

The second-generation 6 Series benefitted from a much improved version of BMW’s iDrive multimedia system. Earlier models used a 10.2-inch screen atop the dashboard, managed by the rotary iDrive controller lower down the centre console.

Included as standard is BMW Professional satellite navigation, Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity, a single DVD player and USB inputs. 

A 2016 facelift saw a new high-resolution 10.2-inch screen installed, along with DAB radio. Wireless smartphone charging capability and an impressive digital dashboard became standard equipment.

A nine-speaker audio system is fitted to all models, with a Harman Kardon set-up on the options list. An even more expensive 16-speaker B&O Advanced audio system could also be specified.

BMW 6 Series (2011 – 2018) value for money

Value for Money Rating
Compared to some GT cars, running costs for the BMW 6 Series Coupe are relatively reasonable for the performance on offer.

BMW 6 Series (2011 – 2018): Prices

Sold between 2011 and 2018, BMW positioned the 6 Series as one of the most expensive models in its range. Such high pricing reflects the ability and technology on offer, but should also serve as a warning of the potential running costs of such a grand tourer. 

Final new pricing for the 6 Series Coupe began with the petrol 640i SE, costing from £62,435 on the road. The diesel 640d SE moved the dial up to £65,115, with the more powerful petrol 650i SE available from £68,595. 

Moving up through the trim levels added further to the list price, with the 650i in M Sport the range-topping option. This cost £75,825 prior to the 6 Series range being discontinued.  

Being a premium coupe with a large list price meant that the 6 Series Coupe did not sell in huge numbers. Finding one on the used market will therefore need a little bit of patience to get the car you really want. 

Unsurprisingly, given the combination of fuel economy and performance it offers, the diesel 640d proved to be the most popular version. It makes the task of finding a petrol-powered 6 Series genuinely difficult. M Sport is the most common trim level, followed by SE. Sport cars are almost impossible to track down.

The best used 6 Series examples will be found with official BMW dealerships. A manufacturer-approved low-mileage 640d, in M Sport trim, should cost from around £22,000. 

Should you be able to find a 640i, prices on the second-hand market for lower-mileage examples begin at £19,000. Be prepared to wait should you want the V8 650i. When they do appear for sale, expect to pay in the region of £30,000 to secure one of the later models.

BMW 6 Series (2011 – 2018): Running Costs

Naturally, the diesel 640d offers the best fuel economy, achieving an average of 51.4mpg in official tests. Later facelifted models upped this further to 52.3mpg. Honest John Real MPG feedback has shown that around 40mpg will be the result in reality. 

The petrol 640i averages between 36.2mpg and 37.2mpg, although Real MPG scores suggest 26mpg is likely to be realistic on the road. Although the 650i averaged 26.6mpg when first launched, later changes saw this increase to a more respectable 32.1mpg. 

Insurance costs will be expensive, with almost all models in the maximum group 50 (out of 50). A handful of early 640i cars were rated as group 47.

The 6 Series spans multiple VED (road tax) regimes, meaning there will be a difference in certain models dependent on when they were registered. 

It makes the diesel 640d, registered before April 2017, something of a bargain at £165 per year. BMW 650i models sold before June 2012 cost £565 a year, although later cars are charged £330. 

All 6 Series Coupes sold after April 2017 incur VED at £150 per year, with an additional £325 a year surcharge for the first five years after registration.

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BMW 6 Series (2011 – 2018) models and specs

Trim levels for the 6 Series Coupe were kept simple by BMW.

SE is the starting point, but still features plenty of equipment. Xenon headlights, Dakota leather upholstery, satellite navigation and parking sensors were all included. The 650i model gained larger 19-inch alloy wheels. LED headlights and BMW ConnectedDrive were added as part of the 2015 facelift.

Sport specification was also added in 2015, but solely for the 650i. Key changes included comfort seats in Nappa leather, a set of 19-inch alloy wheels and fancier chrome detailing on the exterior. 

Offered from launch, M Sport is the range-topping trim. Sports seats trimmed in leather, a black headlining and dark chrome exhaust tailpipes are the key changes. On the outside, a set of 19-inch alloy wheels complement the sportier body styling.

Dimensions
Length 4894 mm
Width 1894–2090 mm
Height 1369 mm
Wheelbase 2855 mm
Miscellaneous
Kerb Weight 1760–1870 kg
Boot Space 460 L
Warranty 3 years / Unlimited miles
Servicing 18000 miles
Spare Wheel
Standard Run-flat tyres
Costs
List Price £60,630–£85,345
Insurance Groups 47–50
Road Tax Bands F–K
Official MPG 27.2–51.4 mpg
Euro NCAP Safety Ratings
Adult -
Child -
Pedestrian -
Overall -

On sale until July 2019

Coupe
Version List Price MPG 0-62
640d 3.0 M Sport Auto 2dr £68,715 51.4 mpg 5.3 s
640d 3.0 M Sport Limited Edition Auto 2dr £85,345 51.4 mpg 5.3 s
640d 3.0 SE Auto 2dr £65,115 52.3 mpg 5.3 s
640i 3.0 M Sport Auto 2dr £66,035 36.7 mpg 5.3 s
640i 3.0 SE Auto 2dr £62,435 37.2 mpg 5.3 s
650i 4.4 M Sport Auto 2dr £75,825 31.7 mpg 4.6 s
650i 4.4 SE Auto 2dr £68,985 31.7 mpg 4.6 s
650i 4.4 Sport Auto 2dr £73,225 32.1 mpg 4.6 s

On sale until August 2015

Coupe
Version List Price MPG 0-62
640d M Sport 313 2dr Auto £67,795 51.4 mpg 5.3 s
640d SE 313 2dr Auto £63,130 51.4 mpg 5.3 s
640i M Sport 320 2dr Auto £65,295 36.2 mpg 5.3 s
640i SE 320 2dr Auto £60,630 36.7 mpg 5.3 s
650i M Sport 450 2dr Auto £73,470 32.1 mpg 4.6 s

On sale until February 2014

Coupe
Version List Price MPG 0-62
650i SE 2dr Auto £68,955 32.1 mpg 4.6 s

Model History

March 2011

BMW 6 Series launched

Now in its third generation, the new BMW 6 Series Coupe takes the luxury 2+2 concept a step further by matching enhanced comfort and elegant design with sporting performance on a even higher level. The BMW 6 Series Coupé features a sweeping coupé roofline while the long bonnet, short over-hangs, set-back passenger compartment with Hofmeister kink, long wheelbase and flat waistline embody the typical proportions of a BMW coupé more than any other model.

Two exceptional BMW turbocharged petrol engines, a newly developed chassis and a host of class-leading driver assistance technology ensure that the new BMW 6 Series Coupé is full of substance, while interior space and comfort have been enhanced.

Model Power
Hp
Torque Nm 0 – 62mph Seconds Top Speed Mph Combined Mpg CO 2 Emissions g/km
BMW 650i Coupé 407 600 4.9 155* 27.2 243
BMW 640i Coupé 320 450 5.4 155* 36.7 179
* Electronically limited

The new BMW 6 Series Coupé features a long sweeping bonnet, set-back passenger compartment and flowing roof-line. Its now traditional BMW “shark nose”, with a large, forward-slanted BMW kidney grille, broad air intakes, wide, contoured bonnet and muscular wheel arches, allude to the powerful engine beneath. Inspired by the movement of water, the fluid lines of the car combine with the subtly curved surfaces to create a look of athletic elegance, which together with the 74mm increase in length and 5mm lower height creates a powerful stance.

Character lines stretching the full length of the body define the side view of the
BMW 6 Series Coupé. The long, flat bonnet elongates the silhouette while the roof sweeps down in one fluid line, combining with the main body effortlessly, in an elegant coupé fashion, while the frameless doors and chrome side window border emphasise the tight lines of the typically BMW Hofmeister kink.

From the rear, bulging wheel arches and horizontal lines highlight the wide track of the new BMW 6 Series Coupé, alluding to its sporting performance and impressive road holding. Two-part rear light clusters give the typical BMW L-shape lights a particularly sporty, dynamic edge. Inside the units, two LED-powered light strips create a striking night-time look. The rear indicators and brake lights also use LED units.

Longer, lower and wider, the new car is larger in every dimension than its predecessor except height, where it now stands half a centimetre closer to the ground. At 4,894mm in length, the new model is 74mm longer than its predecessor, while the wheelbase has stretched similarly, to 2,855mm. The car has also grown by 39mm in width, and now measures 1,894mm across, while 5mm have been shaved off its height.

As standard the new BMW 6 Series Coupé is equipped with xenon headlights that have BMW’s familiar double corona look while high-quality chrome elements, such as the fog lamps consisting of a string of three LED units, on the outer edges of the front apron accentuate the width of the car.

Optional Adaptive LED Headlights are available for the first time and provide a bright white light, similar to natural daylight, with low beam and high beam LED light rings. Horizontal LED ribs are positioned in the centre of the light rings ensuring BMW’s hallmark twin round headlight look is expressed in a strikingly fresh way. More than just style over substance, the Adaptive LED lights automatically pivot and adjust to the line of the corner depending on the car’s speed, steering angle and yaw rate to provide the best visibility possible for the driver.

Despite its lower height, the new 2+2 BMW 6 Series Coupé offers greater headroom in both the front and the rear, and height adjustment of the driver and front passenger seats now cover a greater range too. The individual rear sets also provide passengers with additional shoulder and elbow room, making for more comfortable cruising.

The front passenger area is bordered by a surface curving elegantly from the armrest over the side edge of the centre console, upwards and outwards into the instrument panel and then horizontally into the door trim, surrounding the front passenger area with a feeling of exclusive security.

In tune with the rest of the car’s optimised performance and greater comfort, the new BMW 6 Series Coupé is fitted with newly developed lightweight seats with an integrated seatbelt system, and Easy Entry function to the rear passenger compartment: a brief tap of a switch automatically moves the seat as far forward as possible. Sports seats and Comfort seats can be fitted as an option too. The boot can accommodate 460 litres of luggage, equivalent to three 46-inch golf bags or two medium hard-shell cases and a flight case. To utilise the rear space further the rear seats can be specified with a through-loading ski hatch, allowing two pairs of skis to be transported with ease.

The new BMW 6 Series Coupé is available from launch with two petrol engines: the 650i and 640i. Both offer unique character from their respective V8 and inline six-cylinder engines through the use of twin and single turbocharger technology to produce even more responsiveness, efficiency and higher power levels.

The 4.4-litre eight-cylinder engine in the new BMW 650i Coupé is unique in that the brace of turbochargers are positioned in the V-shaped area between the cylinder banks. This design results in more efficient packaging and greater engine efficiency. A maximum 407hp is developed between 5,500 and 6,400rpm, with peak torque of 600Nm available between 1,750 and 4,500rpm.

The new BMW 650i Coupé sprints from zero to 62mph in 4.9 seconds, with a top speed electronically limited to 155mph. For a model of such blistering performance and refinement, it is also extraordinarily efficient, with average combined fuel consumption of 27.2mpg and CO 2 emissions of 243g/km.

The six-cylinder in-line engine in the new BMW 640i Coupé uses single turbocharger technology alongside petrol direct injection with VALVETRONIC fully variable valve control. This enables the 3.0-litre unit to develop a maximum 320hp at 5,800rpm and maximum torque of 450Nm between 1,300 and 4,500rpm. This engine propels the BMW 640i Coupé from zero to 62mph in 5.4 seconds and on to an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph.

Perhaps even more remarkable are its efficiency figures. The BMW 640i Coupé achieves 36.7mpg on the combined cycle, while CO 2 emissions are only 179g/km, proving that at BMW luxurious sporting performance does not come at the expense of economy. Indeed, this model is fitted as standard with an automatic transmission that features Auto Start-Stop technology and an automatic active air flap control behind the car’s kidney grille for optimum engine performance.

The BMW 640i Coupé debuts the fuel saving technology that is the ECO PRO mode. By a touch of the Drive Dynamic Control button ECO PRO mode tweaks the engine management system, accelerator mapping and gear-shift characteristics to favour a relaxed, low-revving driving style. At the same time, power usage for electronically operated functions such as climate control is regulated to ensure maximum efficiency. A display on the instrument cluster keep the driver informed of the levels of energy efficiency being achieved to encourage an economical driving style.

As with all BMWs, both derivatives of the new 6 Series Coupé come with a raft of BMW EfficientDynamics measures to reduce fuel consumption and emissions. In addition to the features highlighted on the 640i Coupé, both models have technology such as Brake Energy Regeneration, Electric Power Steering (EPS), the need-based operation of ancillary components and intelligent lightweight construction to ensure maximum efficiency as standard.

An eight-speed Sport automatic gearbox is standard fitment on both models, and its wide range of ratios offer a perfect balance of muscular, sprinting performance, refined high speed cruising and low speed efficiency.

The newly developed chassis of the new BMW 6 Series Coupé comes as standard with Drive Dynamic Control, which allows drivers to choose how responsive they want the gearbox, steering and throttle to be, while the Adaptive Drive system is available as an option with electrically controlled dampers and anti-roll stabilisation.

Both the double wishbone front axle and the integral rear axle are made predominantly from aluminium. The chassis set-up is geared to the requirements of drivers looking for a sporting character, although the dampers also respond sensitively to bumps in the road surface under high lateral acceleration.

In addition to the standard electromechanical power steering, another unique feature in this segment is the optional Integral Active Steering system. This system combines Active Steering for the front axle with a steering rear axle, allowing the steering angle and power assistance to be controlled at both the front and the rear with the help of electric motors. This precisely harmonised system offers extraordinary agility in dynamic driving situations, while allowing for an impressively deft touch around twisty mountain passes and in city traffic.

The new BMW 6 Series Coupé comes with the highest ever level of standard specification on a Six. Standard for the 640i Coupé are 18-inch light alloy wheels, while the 650i Coupé comes as standard with a 19-inch light alloy wheel. Both derivatives feature Dakota leather upholstery, eight-speed Sport automatic transmission, electric seat adjustment with memory, BMW Professional Multimedia Navigation system, Xenon headlights, LED front fog lights and front and rear Park Distance Control to name but a few of the standard specification highlights.

The BMW 6 Series Coupé went on sale in the UK on 15 October, 2011.

July 2011

The BMW 6 Series 640d launched

To coincide with the launch of the new BMW 6 Series Coupé this autumn, diesel power becomes available for BMW’s flagship two-door models. The world’s sportiest diesel engine is a 3.0-litre twin-turbo in-line six-cylinder unit producing 313hp at 4400rpm and 630Nm of torque from only 1500rpm with the help of variable geometry turbocharging.

BMW’s ECO PRO mode, fitted as standard on both the 640d Coupé and the 640d Convertible, provides even more economical performance when driving at low speeds or when cruising. In this instance it allows the standard eight-speed automatic gearbox to shift up earlier while altering throttle sensitivity, engine mapping and the power consumed by electronic auxiliary systems.

Model Power (hp) Torque (Nm) 0-62mph (seconds) Top
Speed
(mph)
CO 2 emissions (g/km) Combined mpg
BMW 640d Coupé 313 630 5.5 155* 144 51.4
BMW 640d Convertible 313 630 5.6 155* 148 50.4

* Electronically limited

The BMW 6 Series Coupé and Convertible will now be available in M Sport trim. The M Sport package adds the M aerodynamic bodystyling package, 19-inch M light alloy wheels, dark chrome exhaust tailpipes, High-gloss Shadowline exterior trim and black brake callipers. Inside Anthracite headlining, Aluminium Hexagon trim, Sport seats and M Sport multi-function leather rimmed steering wheel are fitted. The BMW 640d Coupé costs from £62,080 OTR while the 640d Convertible starts at £68,210 OTR.

BMW’s ConnectedDrive system has been enhanced for 2011 for even more intelligent networking between the driver and the outside world. Real Time Traffic Information (RTTI) is a superior system for warning drivers of hold-ups and calculating alternative routes to help avoid them. It is far quicker and more efficient than the Traffic Message Channel (TMC) currently used, transmitting data faster, and updating more frequently, via the SIM card integrated in the vehicle.

Courtesy of BMW Live, the driver’s mobile phone can serve as a modem to feed information to the car’s Control Display via Bluetooth. The system offers free RSS news feeds, weather information, Google Local Search, Google Panoramic and Street View. The RSS news feeds are read inside the car via BMW’s Text to Speech function. The facility will be available on the new BMW 1 Series in September, before being rolled out to other models.

The same camera system can also provide the driver more information through the new full-colour Head-up Display or the instrument panel. The Lane Departure Warning system can detect lane markings and sends a mild vibration through the steering wheel should the vehicle deviate from its lane without indicating. The Speed Limit Display reads both permanent and temporary speed limit signs and displays the current maximum permissible speed limit to the driver.

January 2013

New generation Professional Navigation System now also available for the BMW 6 Series, BMW X3 and new BMW 1 Series. The latest generation of the BMW Professional Navigation System capable of locating 7 digit UK postcodes works even faster thanks to an extremely powerful processor, offering additional route display functions and sharp 3D graphics for all menus. From Spring 2013 this system will be available in all BMW 6 Series models, the new BMW 1 Series and in the BMW X3.

28-5-2015: Revised BMW 6 Series for 2015 announced External styling revisions and new trim materials, centre console surfaces and lighting. More extensive range of standard and personalisation features. The BMW ConnectedDrive navigation and infotainment package is fitted to every model, while Concierge Services accessed through an embedded SIM card allow drivers to set up a bespoke supply of information and connected-car services.

All petrol models now have a sports exhaust system with a switchable valve which adds a more intense timbre to the engine soundtrack, while aerodynamic improvements along with the extensive package of BMW EfficientDynamics technologies mean the six-cylinder models – petrol and diesel – are even more fuel-efficient than before. Through features such as Dynamic Damper Control, Active Drive and Integral Active Steering, owners are now able to create a made-to-measure driving experience, while the latest BMW Head-Up Display and Driving Assistant Plus with Active Cruise Control minimise distractions and supplement the driver’s reactions to enhance safety.

The 2015 6 Series range again consists of coupe, convertible and four door Gran Coupe.

Model

Power
Hp

Torque Nm

0 – 62mph Seconds*

Top Speed Mph**

Combined Mpg*

CO2 Emissions g/km*

Price

OTR

BMW 640d Coupe/Convertible/Gran Sport

Coupé/Convertible/

313

630

5.3/5.5/5.4

155

54.3/52.3/52.33

139/144/143

£62,295/ £68,195/ £62,295

BMW 640i

320

450

5.3/5.5/5.4

155

38.2/37.2/37.7

172/176/174

£59,430/ £65,330/ £59,430

BMW 650i

450

650

4.6/4.6/4.6

155

32.9/31.7/32.9

199/208/199

£69,790/ £75,690/ £69,790

BMW M6

560

680

4.2/4.3/4.2

155

28.5/27.4/28.5

231/239/231

£92,350/ £97,300/ £94,750

* Coupe/Convertible/Gran Coupe respectively ** All versions electronically limited

The 3.0-litre 313hp turbodiesel engine in the 640d models and the similar-capacity 320hp petrol engine in 640i versions are now more fuel-efficient thanks to the latest EfficientDynamics features and aerodynamic improvements. As a result, CO2 emissions are as low as 139g/km on the 640d SE Coupé. Yet every 6 Series can comfortably achieve the 0-62mph sprint in 5.5 seconds – and in many cases, considerably less. That is especially true for the 4.4-litre V8 bi-turbo 650i models, while the ultimate members of the 6 Series range will again be the 560hp V8-engined M6 cars from BMW’s high-performance specialists.

All petrol versions now have a sports-tuned exhaust which provides a soundtrack to match the cars’ emphatic performance. A switchable valve adjusted through the Driving Experience Control system can be used to reduce exhaust back-pressure, adding a significantly sportier edge to the sound coming from the tailpipes.

Styling changes to the front and rear of all 6 Series variants add further emphasis to their powerful on-road presence, while new LED headlights, new metallic paint colours and revisions to the interior ensure that they continue to set the benchmark for understated luxury in their class.

At the rear, the 6 Series appears wider thanks to a new horizontal chrome bumper insert which draws attention to the wide rear track and the inherent stability this promises. Six-cylinder models also have 10mm larger chrome tailpipe embellishers in enlarged cut-outs which again attest to the cars’ dynamic abilities. Newly styled side mirrors improve the cars’ aerodynamic properties and contain slim horizontal indicator strips, while for the Gran Coupé the side window surround has been revised and houses a black painted aluminium section with raised “Gran Coupé” lettering at the foot of the Hofmeister kink on the C-pillar.

There are new 18-inch alloy wheels for the Coupé and Convertible, and five new metallic paint finishes – Jatoba, Cashmere Silver, Glacier Silver, Mediterranean Blue and Melbourne Red. New wheels of up to 20 inches in diameter are available.


18-1-2017: Enchancements to BMW 6 Series New and attractive special equipment options are added to BMW 6 Series range from March 2017. These options, offer exclusively for the BMW 6 Series Coupé, the BMW 6 Series Convertible and the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupé, underscore the sporting character of the three models. The choice of body colours will be complemented by the brand-new variant Sonic Speed Blue metallic. M Sport models will see new 20-inch, M bicolour light alloy wheels boasting an M-specific double spoke design are available, including mixed tyres with run-flat properties and a new Carbon Fibre interior trim.

What to watch out for

07-03-2019:

Report of BMW 6-Series diesel being recalled on 9th January for replacement EGR cooler. Owner did not get the car back, repaired, until 5th March 2019 and was meanwhile put into a SEAT Leon diesel supplied by Enterprise. Owner has worked out that the loss of his 6-Series for 2 months has cost him £1,000 of PCP payments, plus insurance at a higher rate than that of the courtesy SEAT.

07-12-2019:

Report of slight oil seepage from automatic transmission of 2004 BMW 640d at 53,000 miles.

What does the BMW 6 Series (2011 – 2018) cost?