Though, if you're anything like me, you'll have more fun letting a little steam off via pressing the drive-by-wire throttle connected to the 645 Ci's 325-hp 4.4-L V8. The engine's fully variable VALVETRONIC valve control means that optimal power will be where you want it when you want it, translating into a brutish 330 lb-ft of torque at a very tractable 3,600 rpm. The result of such forward thrust is 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 5.8 seconds, not too shabby for a fairly large and luxurious 4-seater. Due to German legislation the coupe's top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h (155 mph), which should be adequate.
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| An assortment of 6-speed transmissions will be available, including a short throw manual gearbox, an impressive 6-speed automatic with Steptronic manual shifting mode, and an optional Sequential Manual Gearbox featuring F1-style shift paddles. (Photo: BMW AG) |
In line with BMW's personalized service a full assortment of 6-speed transmission choices are available. First, and most likely still very popular, will be a short throw manual gearbox. Next on the line is BMW's impressive 6-speed automatic with Steptronic manual shifting mode. Even higher on motorsport enthusiast's desirability ladder is the optional Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG), featuring F1-style shift paddles next to the steering wheel, and if you prefer, a complimentary stubby gearshift lever.
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| BMW closely watched the 6-Series' weight to ensure its sporting feel wasn't lost in luxury features. (Photo: BMW AG) |
Improving the sporting feel is BMW's Dynamic Drive Control (DDC), heightening overall throttle reaction, enhancing steering input at higher speeds, automatically reading throttle input and then revving automatic and SMG gearboxes to near redline rpm when called upon, and lastly providing quicker gear changes. The result is not only a car that feels quicker, but also one that is quicker.
Of course power means little if weight has become unwieldy, so BMW engineers integrated significant lightweight technologies. In particular, the 645 Ci combines aluminum, steel and synthetic materials throughout. Weight-Reduced Aluminum-Technology (WRAT) keeps the front half of the car light, while the rear decklid is made of plastic. The hood and door skins are aluminum and the front side panels are comprised of thermoplastic, further reducing overall weight to approximately 1,600 kg (3,527 lbs), slightly more than the current 5-Series sedan, with axle load distribution near the optimal 50:50 ratio.