 BMW 6 Series, 2004-2010. Click image to enlarge |
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Related articles Manufacturer’s Website BMW 6 Series Owner Reviews |
Review by Justin Pritchard
Sleek, sexy and powerful, the last-generation BMW 6 Series was a four-seat coupe or convertible that offered up luxury and performance to discerning, well-heeled shoppers. This was a machine with all the leading bells and whistles, and one that was engineered and designed to make drivers look and feel like a million bucks.
Look for top-notch luxury and technology features – including heated and chilled seats, navigation with voice command, a premium audio system, keyless engine start (after 2006) and plenty more. As pricey BMW models tended to go, the 6 Series packed world-class equipment levels as standard, though several option packages were available with increased equipment levels.
   BMW 6 Series, 2004-2010. Click image to enlarge |
Power came from one of two V8 engines. Earlier 6 Series models wearing a 645i badge got a 4.4L unit with 325 horsepower. From 2006 and on, a 4.8L V8 with 360 horsepower was fitted instead, facilitating a nomenclature change to 650i.
Look for rear-wheel drive on all models. A six-speed transmission was available in the driver’s choice of automatic or manual as well.
What Owners Like: According to a limited number of owner reviews posted online, it seems that a combination of styling, power, luxury, comfort, technology and exclusivity were among the most enjoyed aspects reported by drivers. Steering and handling dynamics were said to be top-notch, as was seat comfort. Many drivers claim their 6 Series sticks to corners like glue, and is more than happy to provide hours of relaxing driving on a long road trip. Good headlight performance was also noted.
What Owners Dislike: Many 6 Series owners wished for a roomier back seat, better gas mileage and easier-to-use controls. In particular, many a driver talks about a less-than-ideal relationship with the complicated iDrive system, and more than one professional reviewer has called the system “overly complicated.” Many owners report that BMW’s iDrive central command interface overcomplicates manipulation of even simple vehicle functions.
Common Issues: 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. Cycle the roof through a few open and close operations to be thorough.
Approach your test drive of a used 6 Series looking exhaustively for signs of electrical or electronics-related problems. The 6-Series is a complicated car – meaning a virtual rats-nest of wiring, sensors, modules and computers lies within. You’ll want to ensure these are all talking to one another effectively. If that’s not the case, a tremendous range of problems could result – from niggling and infrequent to obvious and annoying. Spend some time playing around with everything inside the 6 Series that runs on electricity, confirming proper operation.
Particularly, 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 key fob and paddle shifters, to be sure they’re functioning properly.
