Used 2007 BMW 6 Series

High-powered, high-profile and highly desirable, BMW’s premium 650i Coupe makes an exclusive statement in a very exclusive realm. While a few of its styling details may be open to some rather heated debate, there’s no denying that this 2+2 offers a stunning driving experience for those who can afford its price of entry. A potent V8 engine, superbly responsive chassis and exceptional amenities make it a serious competitor to prestige coupes from Jaguar, Maserati, Mercedes-Benz and Porsche, in many cases delivering more absolute performance for considerably less money when comparably equipped.

The 650i Coupe shares basic chassis elements with the 5 Series Sedan, but its 4.3-inch shorter wheelbase and slightly wider rear track dimension add an extra measure of agility and surefootedness, while a host of computerized "active" control elements – from stability to traction to the anti-roll bars themselves – ensures it maintains that superb composure on virtually any kind of road. Although the suspension is tuned more for control than pure comfort, the 650i is still a first-rate cruiser. The silky 360-horsepower V8 takes it from zero to 60 mph in just about 5.5 seconds, regardless of whether it’s backed by the conventional six-speed manual, BMW’s six-speed SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox) or the six-speed automatic with Steptronic shift control.

Comfort and convenience touches abound inside the 650i Coupe, headed by its well-contoured 12-way power bucket seats and on-board computer/navigation system. Standard Dakota leather upholstery is set off with high-tech Pearl-gloss Ruthenium accent trim, but BMW offers Dark or Light Birch wood as no-charge alternatives for buyers with more traditional tastes. Even with its rakish roofline, the 650i has sufficient room for taller drivers up front, although some may find that the steering wheel rim obscures the top of the gauge faces, even when adjusted to its full-up position. Rear seats are typical 2+2 fare – scaled strictly for kids, and smaller ones at that.

One of the most expressively styled BMWs, the 650i Coupe maintains the long, low nose and short rear-deck treatments that have characterized other classic coupes from this marque, but incorporates lots of aluminum and thermoplastic panels to help reduce weight. Its laid-back windshield and sweeping roofline are smartly complemented by bold fender flares that add to the aggressive character. Although the Coupe’s tail treatment and trunk lid remain points of minor controversy for some, its overall visual impact – especially when fitted with the optional Sport Package that bumps the wheel/tire fitment from 18-inch to 19-inch alloy rims with even larger, lower-profile tires – is undeniably impressive.

Dynamic Driving Control
At the push of a button, this 650i Coupe’s electronic performance wizard engages a "Sport" mode that brings quicker response to accelerator inputs, and more aggressive shifting programs to both the Steptronic and SMG transmissions, while reducing the overall power assist on the standard Servotronic steering system.

Tilting Glass Panel Roof
The 650i’s Tilting Glass Panel Roof with electric sliding sunshade lets in plenty of light and flips up at the rear to help improve airflow through the passenger compartment.

The 650i Coupe’s standard features include a dual automatic climate control system, DVD-based navigation with iDrive integrated controller, a multifunction steering wheel, power tilt/telescoping column, programmable keyless remote entry, corner-following Xenon Adaptive Headlamps, Adaptive Brake Lights (that indicate your stopping intensity to vehicles following behind), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), electronically modulated Active Roll Stabilization, Dynamic Driving Control (that quickens throttle and shift responses), advanced anti-lock brakes, run-flat tires and a no-charge choice of the manual, the automatic or the Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG), all with six speeds. Dual front/front-side airbags are matched with BMW’s Head Protection System and Active Knee Protection airbags.

Owners can personalize their 650i Coupes with features like Active Steering (that makes it easier to maneuver in confined areas and adds more confident feel at higher speeds), Comfort Access automatic locking/unlocking, distance-maintaining Active Cruise Control, a premium Logic7 Surround Sound audio system, High Definition and SIRIUS Satellite Radio, Head-Up Display and thermal imaging Night Vision. A Cold Weather Package (heated front seats/steering wheel, ski bag) and Sport Package (19-inch alloy wheels with performance tires, eight-way power sport seats, Shadowline exterior trim) also are available.

The 650i Coupe’s all-aluminum 4.8-liter V8 makes an outstanding 360 horsepower and 360 pound-feet of torque. It incorporates both variable valve timing and variable valve lift to help optimize performance throughout a wide rev range, delivering super-quick response and respectable fuel economy with all three of the available six-speed transmissions. Near-silent at idle, the engine emits a beautifully rich and throaty roar at full throttle, thanks in part to a movable element in the exhaust system that imparts an edgier character to the sound under higher load conditions. For maximum enthusiast appeal, the electronically-controlled SMG clutchless manual transmission also offers racing-style, steering wheel-mounted paddle shift levers.

4.8-liter V8
360 horsepower @ 6300 rpm
360 lb.-ft. of torque @ 3400 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 17/24 (manual), 17/25 (automatic), 16/22 (SMG manual)