Overview & Reviews

BMW has long offered fine driving cars for every luxury budget, but four-door models have generally been the company's bread and butter. The BMW 6 Series coupe and convertible are for those seeking two-door style in a high-end package that's a bit more extravagant than the norm. The current 6 Series follows in its predecessor's footsteps as a complement to BMW's 5 Series and 7 Series sedans, offering a similar range of six- and eight-cylinder power but adding a unique sense of exclusivity and style.

New or used, the 6 Series siblings rank among the more interesting luxury two-doors on the market. They have their faults, to be sure, and they also face stiff competition from several prestigious competitors. On the other hand, their technology is cutting-edge and their powertrains are superb. It's hard to go wrong with any 6 Series model that fits your budget.

Current BMW 6 Series
The current BMW 6 Series is offered as a coupe and a convertible. The convertible is notable for its clever soft-top roof design with a separately controlled rear window. You can lower that window with the roof up for added ventilation, or raise it as a wind deflector with the roof down.

The base 640i is powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 with 315 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque. The 650i steps up to a turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 that cranks out a formidable 445 hp and 480 lb-ft of torque. Rear-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission are standard on all models, with "xDrive" all-wheel drive optional. And yes, that includes the convertibles -- so if you want a 445-hp drop top with AWD and a fabric roof, BMW will be more than happy to build you one.

Standard features on the 640i include adaptive xenon headlights, adaptive suspension dampers, six-way power heated front seats with lumbar adjustments, leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control and the iDrive electronics interface with a 10.2-inch display and navigation. The 650i adds larger wheels, an upgraded audio system and 16-way power front seats. In typical BMW fashion, the options list is generous and pricey, highlighted by side- and surround-view cameras, self-closing automatic doors, a leather-covered dashboard, adaptive cruise control, a night-vision camera and ceramic-trimmed knobs.

Despite its substantial size, the 6 Series is best for two passengers. The rear compartment is strictly for short trips unless you put a small child back there. However, those up front will be treated to first-class accommodations with very comfortable seats, top-notch materials and high-tech gizmos aplenty. Furthermore, the trunk is rather generous for a luxury sport coupe at 12.3 cubic feet. Even the convertible's trunk measures a decently sized 10.6 cubic feet with the top lowered. Retractable-hardtop convertibles typically hold much less than that with their roofs stowed away.

From behind the wheel, no one will mistake the 6 Series for a 4 Series. This burly grand tourer has few sporting pretensions, though it's far from clumsy and the steering is precise enough to make BMW's biggest two-door feel reasonably spry. Highway runs are where the 6 Series really excels, racking up hundreds of well-insulated, fatigue-free miles at a stretch with effortless passing power -- particularly from the otherworldly V8.

Used BMW 6 Series Models
The current, third-generation 6 Series debuted for 2012 with larger dimensions and more conservative styling than its rather avant-garde predecessor, as well as turbocharged power in place of that model's naturally aspirated engines. It's also the first 6 Series to offer all-wheel drive. The first-year 650i was marginally less powerful (400 hp and 450 lb-ft) and had a manual transmission option, while the 640i models weren't eligible for all-wheel drive until 2014. Changes have otherwise been minimal.

The previous, second-generation BMW 6 Series was produced from 2004-'10 in coupe and convertible body styles. Originally, this 6 Series came equipped with a 4.4-liter V8 rated at 325 hp and 330 lb-ft of torque and was known as the 645Ci. For 2006, the name changed to 650i (minus the "C") and its engine was updated to a 4.8-liter V8 that produced 360 hp and 360 lb-ft of torque. The 645Ci and 650i drive quite similarly -- the smaller V8 shares the 4.8-liter's athletic character but has a slightly less vigorous power delivery. If you find a well-kept 645Ci on the used market, you won't find it lacking from a performance standpoint.

Prior to 2008, the second-generation 6 Series offered three six-speed transmissions: a traditional manual, a traditional automatic and BMW's SMG, which used an electronically controlled clutch to provide both the responsiveness of a manual and the forget-about-it friendliness of an automatic. The SMG may sound tempting, but we'd steer clear, as its herky-jerky performance can make everyday driving a literal pain in the neck. Most 6 Series from this era were equipped with the traditional automatic, but it didn't become standard until 2010. The manual became an option at that point.

Shoppers should note that beyond the powertrain changes, in-car electronics were also upgraded over the years. Early models feature older versions of BMW's iDrive system, which was still in its nascent stages and quite frustrating to use. Gradual improvements were made, but it wasn't until 2010 that the system became fully worthwhile.

In reviews of the second-generation BMW 6 Series, we found that the ride was supple and quiet, the brakes were powerful, and despite nearly 2 tons of weight, handling limits remained high thanks to sophisticated tuning and a well-balanced chassis. Adding the Sport package firmed up the ride and increased cornering grip via a set of 19-inch wheels and tires, while the variable-ratio active steering quickened low-speed turning response.

As with any luxury touring coupe or convertible, the specific mission of this BMW 6 Series was to cover lots of road in a hurry while making its occupants look and feel great -- the front ones, anyway. Unfortunately, the 6 Series offered little of the rear seat space found in its contemporary 5 Series sedan counterpart despite similar midsize dimensions. Also, neither the 650i coupe nor the convertible were considered fashion leaders at the time, though their relative rarity today may make their unconventional lines more appealing.

Not counting the BMW 8 Series of 1990s vintage, the precursor to the modern 6 Series models is the first-generation 6 Series coupe produced from 1977-'89. All models used an inline six-cylinder engine ranging from 3.2 to 3.5 liters, tuned to varying degrees of power. Even the most potent version could only accelerate to 60 mph in the low 6-second range and grip the road in the upper 0.70g range -- modest by modern standards -- while the car's semi-trailing arm rear suspension never did the best job of keeping the car planted to the road. Still, it was an engaging car to drive in its day, and for that reason the original BMW 6 Series coupe retains an important place in BMW history.

User Reviews:

• 

  Awesome Coupe - 2005 BMW 6-Series
  By 645 DS - June 16 - 1:22 am

  What an excellent ride! This is my 3rd BMW and I most recently has a Lexus GS430 which was not fun to drive at all.The 645 CI has great power and it just keeps going faster and faster. Fuel economy is much better than I expected. I average 19-20 miles between city and freeway driving. Learned the whole iDrive system in a week. This is a good way to keep the dash clean.

• 

  Wheeee Doggy! - 2005 BMW 6-Series
  By S.H - June 12 - 12:07 pm

  Since 1992 the only car me and my wife ever drove was the 7 series, there never was another car for us, but got tired of waiting for the new on order 750, decided to try something new. WOW!

• 

  2005 645CI Convertible - 2005 BMW 6-Series
  By Josie - June 11 - 7:25 pm

  When I first learned that BMW was coming back with the six series, I was very interested in seeing the new model. At the time I was ready to purchase my new car, they were then coming out with a convertible and with everything that I wanted on it. I had also considered the 745, but upon seeing the 645 there was no doubt in my mind that that was the car for me. I had a choice of Air Force One or an F- 16. I elected the F-16 and have thoroughly enjoyed driving it. Everywhere I go people compliment me on my stunning car. The car is a dream to drive and have been very happy with it. I highly recommend it.

• 

  Fast, fun, gorgeous and furious! - 2005 BMW 6-Series
  By Beamer Girl - June 10 - 9:31 pm

  My husband bought me this car after I had been eyeing it up on line for months. I could not be happier. I, too, drove a Porcshe 911 Carrera and the 645 makes that car look like a joke! I have never had any problem with taking turns at high speeds and the driving experience is simply that... an experience. The lines on this car are gorgeous and the color combo I chose is just stunning (silver grey metallic with grey top and burgundy interior)! Definitely gets lots of compliments and stares! I absolutely adore this car!

• 

  love my rag top - 2005 BMW 6-Series
  By ltb - June 10 - 12:10 pm

  Car runs really well. A lot of goodies for the price. iDrive navigation a bit hard to get used too. Fuel economy on open road is good. Fast times off the line. Sattelite radio, HUD , Sport package really complete the total package. Worth the extra bucks. Only feqature lacking is that side mirrors dont fold via power. A bit noisy with top down, at high speeds !!! I traded in Audi A-4 cabrio, big difference!!! Go for it !!

• 

  A Truly excellent Coupe - 2005 BMW 6-Series
  By SMB - June 10 - 11:50 am

  This superb coupe provides all the enjoyment of a sports car, plus the additional benefits of useable rear occasional seating (and extra storage space) and a large trunk. The performance and roadholding are also excellent, in the true spirit of BMW.

• 

  Best Ive ever owned - 2005 BMW 6-Series
  By Bill Trukenbrod - June 10 - 9:29 am

  the 645 Ci is the sixth convertable that Ive owned starting with a TR-3 and my last car was a MB SL500. The 645 is by far the most fun to drive, and the best to be seen in. Ive never had so many people say great things about a car Ive been driving, in car washes, at stop lights, parking lots,etc.etc. You get used to the iControl.

• 

  Great Touring Car - 2005 BMW 6-Series
  By T - June 7 - 3:06 pm

  The 645 is a great car to drive with the top down or up. The acceleration is good for a car of this size and weight, although it could always be faster. Handling with the sport package is good and I drive quite a bit on winding mountain roads and it handles great. I have yet to feel drift or loose traction even at 80+ on S turns. Acceleration on straights could be better. Overall a great touring car (as advertised).

• 

  My Six - 2005 BMW 6-Series
  By nmcochise - June 2 - 10:31 am

  Moved out of a Benz SL600 into the 645CiC. The BMW has better braking, refined seating and no loss of performance smoother and a much more quiet ride Unlike the Benz, the Beemer roof line is not friendly to tall people.

• 

  No Sports Car, But Great Tourer - 2005 BMW 6-Series
  By D. Jamieson - May 28 - 1:23 am

  Fantastic acceleration and stopping power. Pretty slushy in normal mode, but the "sport" button makes it very responsive. Active suspension is incredible. iDrive is a great alternative to dozens of tiny buttons, and is surprisingly intuitive, as is the voice command system. Very quiet and solid-feeling. Turns heads. Main criticism is that the driver is quite isolated from the road. Interior a bit disappointing for a car in this price bracket (lots of plastic, cheap carpet).