Power comes by way of BMW's sensational 32-valve, dual-overhead cam, 4.4L V8, producing a lusty 325-horsepower at 6,100 rpm and
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| BMW's sensational 325-hp 32-valve, dual-overhead cam, 4.4L V8 powers the 645 Ci. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
330 lb-ft of torque at 3,600 rpm. While quick blasts to highway speeds were great fun in Vancouver, it was during my previous drive through Spain that I learned exactly how well the 6 performs at high-speed. It remains level to the ground, totally stable and totally in control no matter the velocity. Only a particularly slick stretch of rain-soaked polished pebble roadway caused any stability problems, and then the 6's various electronic driver aids, such as Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Dynamic Traction Control and Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), quickly took over to thwart any potential trouble.
I also took the opportunity to test out BMW's Active Cruise Control (ACC), which maintained a safe distance from all cars ahead,
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| The 6-Series has all the makings of a true future classic. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
and found the 645's head-up display (HUD), which projects important information on the lower corner of the windscreen, quite useful as well. The car's LOGIC7 audio system is amazing, making symphonic music sound better than when taking in the VSO at the Orpheum - less coughing from spectators I suppose.
For me, the new 645 Ci is a significant improvement over any previous BMW coupe. Its design and overall execution, inside and out, is inspirational, with fine attention paid to the minutest of details, all in an effort to make its ownership experience second to none. It's the makings of a future classic.
