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:

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  Awesome! - 2005 BMW 6-Series
  By RL - April 7 - 12:48 am

  I traded in my 2004 745i on a 2005 645ci. I had a negative equity of $5k on the 745i but it was worth every penny cause the 645ci is just simply awesome. Nowdays, it seems that everyone has a 745 or a 5 series. The 645ci is so unique. I get many looks on the road. In fact, it reminds me of the old 8 series than the 6 series. I got the sports package which I think gives it a totally different attitude. I love this car so much more than that big 745i.

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  Alva review - 2005 BMW 6-Series
  By Gregory Alvarez - April 1 - 7:42 pm

  A real fun to drive car, kids love it for a downtown cruise car . Or just to drive around town ,many compliments from neighbors and citizens.

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  645 ci has no equal in the market - 2004 BMW 6-Series
  By Bimmerfile - March 21 - 5:48 pm

  SMG makes the car hard to drive smoothly. Active steering feels awkward and unnatural. Otherwise the car is a terrific driver. I can live with the iDrive. I think there is a little dodge stratus in the back. It makes the car look cheap honestly. I never quite got used to the awful trunk. The car seems confused on whether to ape porsche or dodge.The front is unique, not really attractive but not particularly ugly either. Saddle up behind the seat, and the outside wont matter any more.

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  Endless Power - 2005 BMW 6-Series
  By Ken - March 12 - 5:40 pm

  The car is a beautiful head turner with quick acceleration and great braking. That more than makes up for the poorly excuted iDrive. Its the only bad thing about the car. The driving experience is hindered by this awkward, needlessly confusing gizmo. The integrated Bluetooth phone system does not operate smoothly. The sound system is good. Trunk space is adequate. The exhaust note is thrilling. The front seats are supportive and comfortable. The rear seats are for emergency use and should be considered additional storage. Overall, its a gorgeous, fast, sturdy, well built ride that will give you plenty of smiles. Driving this car makes me feel good.

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  A PERFECT 10 - 2005 BMW 6-Series
  By JOE MONTANA - February 19 - 8:04 pm

  There is nothing bad about this vehicle, when I bought it, it was great and it hasnt declined in comfort or performance ever since. Buy this vehicle it is a keeper. I would pay up to a million dollars for it. I have a McLaren F1, and this machine is just as nice if not better. A perfect 10.

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  what a blast - 2005 BMW 6-Series
  By BacktoBMW - February 18 - 10:41 am

  Ive had my 645ci for two months now. It is the most fun car Ive ever driven. Its a head turner and eye catcher and a road grabber. BMW hit it out of the park with this one. Handling and performance are supurb you feel safe and solid in every turn. I like the lines on the 645CI better than the convertable which looks a bit choppy. After a month I got used to the improved I-Drive. The issues Ive had are waiting for over two months for sirius radio and my new blackberry phone does not work with the bluetooth feature on the 645. This car is amazing, I look forward to seeing you in my rearview mirror.

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  midwest owner - 2005 BMW 6-Series
  By zin - February 11 - 10:19 pm

  My experience with the vehicle has not been good because the dealership has not had trained staff for one. Secondly there are on board computer problems since delivery which have not been fixed. The paint finish is an issue in which small scratches have appeared in the clear coat. The design seems susceptible to front end/hood damage from road stones. Bluetooth sometimes fails with cell phone.

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  I-drive systems / - 2005 BMW 6-Series
  By Billie Johnson - February 9 - 10:23 pm

  The 645 cic is a fun car to drive. It handles with excellence and attracts the "nice car" symbol with the thumbs up everywhere I go. What I am disappointed with is the malfunction of the I drive system (resetting itself or freezing). My roll bar protection for some reason has deactivated itself. I made an appointment on January 3rd to take my car in and unfortunately the next available date is the 20th of February. Very disappointing for a 90k car.

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  Best BMW I have ever driven or owned - 2005 BMW 6-Series
  By JR - February 8 - 2:31 pm

  I have owned BMWs since 1977 (3, 5 & 7 series) as well as two Porsche 911s. The 645 is the absolute best, hands down - performance, drive, feel, style (interior and exterior). Recommend sport and premium pkgs. Sport drive is amazing. The 645 is the perfect balance of performance and comfort. The sound of the engine is awsome. And I-drive is very easy to understand.

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  The Best Yet - 2005 BMW 6-Series
  By Harriet Brown - February 8 - 1:47 pm

  This is one snazzy car! It is my 3rd BMW and I am on the road (highway) a lot. So reliability is very important. Design people outdid themselves this time.