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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  Get the Convertible! - 2010 BMW 6-Series
  By Beemerluvr4ever - June 17 - 7:05 pm

  I recently purchased my 2010 650 CIC and I traded an 09 M3 Coupe and an 09 G37 Convertible for this beauty. Although I was very reluctant to give up my M3, I was happy to dump the Infiniti after only 3 months. I am a small person (58") so was concerned about the size of the car. After test driving it for only 5 minutes, I knew it was going to be my next Beemer (my 15th). For the size of the car, when I am driving it, it feels like a comfortable coupe, excellent driving behavior and surprisingly good on gas (25 MPG HWY at 80 MPH average). I got it with the sport package and every available option (black and beige) it is comfortable, fun to drive and has excellent road manners. Perfect

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  This is the best BMW I have ever driven - 2004 BMW 6-Series
  By Smoove - May 23 - 8:11 pm

  I purchased my first BMW in 1987, a BMW 325is. Since then I have owned a BMW 528i, 328i convertible, 1988 M6, 540i, 745Li and now I own a 2004 BMW 645ci Convertible. I will tell you this as a prior BMW owner this is the best BMW I have ever owned. I love this car so much I cant bring my self to even drive it in the rain. I only have 14,000 miles on the car. This car turns heads, causes other vehicles horns to blow and lights to flash when approaching. My Lady always wants to a company me in the passenger’s seat. Shes is nobodys fool. She knows wherever this car goes there is a lot of attention given and she enjoys being apart of it. This is truly an Ultimate Driving Machine.

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  Headsup Fabulous - 2008 BMW 6-Series
  By Carmelcarol - April 22 - 10:00 pm

  This is one sweet automobile. So responsive, amazing comfort in the drivers seat ( great lumbar and head support). And the headsup display is invaluable - what a car. Cant wait to really get it on the road for a trip. Love it, love it, love it.

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  2010 6er Germany - 2010 BMW 6-Series
  By Martin - April 6 - 8:13 am

  This car is straight up powerful – and I have the luxury of living and driving in Germany. Bringing this car to the US will be a sin as one cannot fully appreciate the power and excitement that this car delivers. I dread the day when I have to drive the stagnant highways stateside. I will miss the infamous autobahns and the speeds at which I can drive this great car. Handling is effortless and superb. "I live for the moments that I take my 6er either to work every day or just out for a spin on weekends”. My 2010 BMW 650i Coupe is a world class car and true head spinner from the poor slackers that are stuck in their tiny 3 Series and Z4 Coupes.

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  Beware "the convertible roof" - 2004 BMW 6-Series
  By John - Los Altos - March 25 - 8:34 pm

  Love to drive my 645 when the roof works which is not very often over the last year. BMW cant fix it after 4 attempts on my nickel and I can no longer afford these repair bills. Like some women, this car looks absolutely terrific, but dont even think about getting too close. Itll cost you! There are other cars out there that are a joy to drive, do the right thing - buy a coupe!

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  the 07 ages well - 2007 BMW 6-Series
  By LAThombo - March 17 - 2:04 am

  I picked up an 07 650i coupe for $51K, plus trade in of a 99 M3 with 80K miles on it. The 650 is a delight (sure, you say, what wouldnt be compared to the rusty horse Id been riding), and in unexpected ways. The seats envelope in a way superior to those in the 2009 MB CL I rented and are far superior to those in the Carerra. The engine sound is of elegant fortitude, the handling pugnacious when demanded but otherwise smooth and flat-out fun. The sports mode is a bit jerky at times, but darn quick off the line (the normal mode, which my wife dubs the macher mode, is far less responsive to the pedal stomp yet very smooth). I feel very safe in it, although the A-pillar obscures a bit.

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  I Love this Car! - 2005 BMW 6-Series
  By John - March 11 - 7:39 pm

  The finest car I have ever owned. I have had other BMWs, Mercedes, Volvos, 400 HP muscle cars and nothing compares to this car. It is in a class of its own when it comes to BMWs.

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  There are better options - 2005 BMW 6-Series
  By Santiago - December 13 - 3:44 pm

  I think you can have a much better car for the same money. My car has been giving me a lot of headache with the operation of the roof it stops working without previous notice and not even the BMW guys know why is that. She still is covered by the warranty but my concern is when its over Ill be the one paying every time this happens again. Other than that, she runs ok but the engine isnt that amazing considering its a V8 (should have much more grunts and ponies). Anyway, I wouldnt buy it again. Next time, Ill try Mercedes, Porsche or Audi.

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  Its been fun - 2006 BMW 6-Series
  By Ernie Loynaz - September 24 - 5:28 pm

  After my 4-years with the SC430 from Lexus, I was unhappy with its soft steering - heard the purr of the 650s engine and fell in love - at last the muscle car I could not afford as a teenager, with the class that comes with maturity (OK agreed - if I was so mature, I wouldnt care - right?).

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  Rear suspention problems - 2007 BMW 6-Series
  By Viken - August 5 - 10:55 pm

  Overall is a great car dont get me wrong. im been an BMW enthusiast for years but the dealer cant fix the wear of the rear tires on the inside. They want me to do alignment and put new set of tires at 22000 miles at my expense! Thats the reason i purchased a $80,000 car on the first place, insane.