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BMW 6 Series
Performance, luxury and technology
BMW has been without a high-end coupe since the 8 Series line was dropped in 1997. Well before the 8 Series came along, however, there was the original 6 Series coupe that ran from 1977 to 1989. Known for its distinctive shape and refined demeanor, the original 6 Series was one of the few high-end coupes of that time to effectively blend high performance and conspicuous luxury. Like its predecessor, the current 6 Series coupe, introduced in 2004, offers an intriguing combination of high-end features and impressive performance.
Powered by the same 4.4-liter V8 found in the flagship 7 Series, the 645Ci has more than enough power to keep pace with its rivals. Unlike most other luxury coupes, however, the 6 Series offers more than just your average automatic transmission. For those who truly enjoy maximum involvement, a six-speed manual is offered in addition to a six-speed automatic. Rounding out the transmission lineup is a Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG) option that allows for paddle-shifted manual control or fully automatic. Regardless of which transmission you choose, the 645Ci delivers outstanding performance with a 0-to-60-mph time of 5.6 seconds in the coupe and a top speed of 149 mph.
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More than just raw power, the 6 Series incorporates numerous high-tech materials to keep its weight down. A composite trunk, aluminum doors and thermoplastic front fenders all contribute to the effort, while the remaining bulk is perfectly balanced 50-to-50 front to rear. Like its 5 Series stablemate, the 645Ci offers BMW's revolutionary Active Steering system that can adjust the steering ratio for maximum maneuverability, whether you're at speed on the highway or inching into a parking space. Along with Active Steering, the 6 Series incorporates electronic stability and traction
control as well as Active Roll Stabilization for maximum control.
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Inside the 6 Series, BMW's muchmaligned iDrive system controls the car's various functions, while classic analog gauges provide the more pertinent information. All 6 Series coupes have a standard panorama glass roof that gives the car a more open-air feeling, while true sun
worshippers can opt for the full-fledged convertible version.
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Thanks to its generous dimensions, the 6 Series is spacious for two, but, like most coupes, it's cozy for four. Other notable technological highlights include Active Cruise Control that automatically maintains a preset distance between cars and a Harman Kardon Logic 7 sound
system that rivals home audio systems. Big coupes have always occupied an awkward place in most manufacturers' lineups. As expensive as their sedan counterparts, yet considerably less practical, luxury coupes target the narrow range of buyers who are willing to forego functional concerns to get a leg up in the style department. The 6 Series provides the kind of serene, yet exhilarating, driving experience you would expect from a BMW. nGP
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Body styles, trim levels and options:
Available in coupe and convertible body styles, the 6 Series comes in just one well-equipped level of trim. Standard equipment includes automatic climate control, a CD player with MP3 compatibility, a full set of one-touch power windows, rain-sensing windshield wipers and heated power mirrors. The seats feature multiple power adjustments and electric heaters. The iDrive vehicle management system is integrated into the console, while a DVD-based navigation system with voice command and park distance control also comes standard. Active cruise control is optional. On the audio side, buyers can opt for a glovebox-mounted CD changer as well as a premium-grade Harman Kardon Logic 7 sound system. An optional sport package adds BMW's unique Active Front Steering system along with sport seats and larger wheel and tires.
Powertrains and performance:
There is only one engine offered this year: a 4.4-liter V8 rated to produce 325 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque. Shared with the 7 Series sedan, the eight-cylinder uses the latest in engine technology to produce a broad band of power while remaining remarkably smooth and silent. Three different transmissions allow you to choose varying levels of performance and driving effort. Choose from a six-speed manual, a six-speed automatic and a six-speed paddle-shifted Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG) that offers a combination of both. Regardless of which transmission you choose, the 645i delivers outstanding performance with a 0-to-60 time of 5.6 seconds in the coupe.
Safety:
Four-wheel antilock disc brakes fortified with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution are standard along with stability and traction control (BMW's DSC). Run-flat tires are optional along with adaptive headlights for better visibility. Other safety features include front side-impact, full-length side curtain airbags (coupe only) and a rollover protection system (convertible only).
Interior design and special features:
Utilization of BMW's iDrive control system reduces button clutter to a minimum, making for a clean dash design. BMW's trademark analog gauges stare out from behind the steering wheel, while an optional head-up display offers to project pertinent vehicle information onto the windshield for less distraction. Thanks to its generous dimensions and standard panorama roof (coupes only), the 6 Series is spacious for two.
Driving impressions:
Although it's not quite as nimble as BMW's smaller 3 Series coupe, the 645i is a very capable performer when driven hard. Its combination of modest weight and ample power make for quick acceleration from any speed. The Active Roll Stabilization system keeps the big coupe flat around corners, and the lightweight suspension does its part to maintain traction and soak up the bumps. The wide range of transmissions allows you to tailor the 6 Series to your particular driving style, so consider the options carefully.
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