History/Description: Giving BMW fans a touring 2+2 that was equal parts luxury and performance, the BMW 6-Series was available in both coupe and convertible variations.
Look for top-notch luxury and technology features—including heated and chilled seats, navigation, premium audio, keyless engine start and plenty more. As pricey BMW models tended to go, the 6-Series packed world-class equipment levels.
Power came from one of two V8 engines. Earlier 6-Series models wearing a ‘645’ badge got a 4.4 litre unit with 325 horsepower. From 2006 and on, a 4.8 litre V8 with 360 horsepower was fitted—alongside a nomenclature change to ‘650’.
Look for rear-wheel drive on all models. A 6-speed transmission was available in the driver’s choice of automatic or manual.
What Owners Like: No surprises here. Styling, power, luxury, comfort, technology and exclusivity were among the most highly-rated aspects for 6-Series owners. Steering and handling response were said to be top-notch, as was seat comfort. Many drivers claim their 6-Series sticks to corners like glue.
What Owners Dislike: Many 6-Series owners wished for a roomier back seat, better gas mileage and easier-to-use controls. Many owners report that BMW’s iDrive central command interface overcomplicates manipulation of even simple vehicle functions.
Common Issues With A Used BMW 6-Series: Shopping for a convertible 6-Series? Be sure the motorized roof operates smoothly in both directions as outlined in the owner’s manual. Note any binding, excessive wear or self-reversing of the top or power windows during roof operation. Duct tape is a bad sign, too. A variety of sensors and motors work the roof mechanism, and if any are faulty or failing, problems may result.
Approach your test-drive looking exhaustively for signs of electrical or electronics-related problems. The 6-Series is a complicated car—meaning a virtual rat's-nest of wiring, sensors, modules and computers lies within. You’ll want to ensure these are all talking to one another effectively.
Make sure the iDrive system , climate control, navigation and driver computer all work as expected. Try the motorized seats, all lights, and all accessories-- including the keyfob and paddle-shifters, to be sure they’re functioning properly.
Look for top-notch luxury and technology features—including heated and chilled seats, navigation, premium audio, keyless engine start and plenty more. As pricey BMW models tended to go, the 6-Series packed world-class equipment levels.
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| 2004 BMW 6-Series (Photo: BMW) |
Power came from one of two V8 engines. Earlier 6-Series models wearing a ‘645’ badge got a 4.4 litre unit with 325 horsepower. From 2006 and on, a 4.8 litre V8 with 360 horsepower was fitted—alongside a nomenclature change to ‘650’.
Look for rear-wheel drive on all models. A 6-speed transmission was available in the driver’s choice of automatic or manual.
What Owners Like: No surprises here. Styling, power, luxury, comfort, technology and exclusivity were among the most highly-rated aspects for 6-Series owners. Steering and handling response were said to be top-notch, as was seat comfort. Many drivers claim their 6-Series sticks to corners like glue.
What Owners Dislike: Many 6-Series owners wished for a roomier back seat, better gas mileage and easier-to-use controls. Many owners report that BMW’s iDrive central command interface overcomplicates manipulation of even simple vehicle functions.
Common Issues With A Used BMW 6-Series: Shopping for a convertible 6-Series? Be sure the motorized roof operates smoothly in both directions as outlined in the owner’s manual. Note any binding, excessive wear or self-reversing of the top or power windows during roof operation. Duct tape is a bad sign, too. A variety of sensors and motors work the roof mechanism, and if any are faulty or failing, problems may result.
Approach your test-drive looking exhaustively for signs of electrical or electronics-related problems. The 6-Series is a complicated car—meaning a virtual rat's-nest of wiring, sensors, modules and computers lies within. You’ll want to ensure these are all talking to one another effectively.
Make sure the iDrive system , climate control, navigation and driver computer all work as expected. Try the motorized seats, all lights, and all accessories-- including the keyfob and paddle-shifters, to be sure they’re functioning properly.
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| 2008 BMW 6-Series (Photo: Philippe Champoux/Auto123.TV, Matthieu Lambert/Auto123.com) |