BMW 6 series coupe revealed

The new BMW 6 series coupe finally joins its sibling, the 6 series convertible, four months after its reveal.

Like the convertible, the 6 series coupe will initially be available as a 650i or a 640i (a diesel and M6 variant are still expected), with the 650i having a 4.4 litre twin-turbo V8 engine, while the 640i has a turbocharged 3.0 litre inline six. Power and torque figures are quoted at 407 hp and 443lb ft (600 nm) of torque for the 650i, while the 640i produces 320 hp at 5800 rpm and  332lb ft (450 nm).

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Both of the engines are connected to an eight-speed automatic transmission (a six-speed manual will be available in North America), while 0-62 mph (100 km/h) takes 4.9 sec in the 650i, and 5.4 sec in 640i.  Both cars have electronically limited top speeds of 155 mph (250 km/h).  The 640i gets Auto Start-Stop technology as standard, which helps it get an average fuel economy figure of 36.7 mpg (7.7 l per 100 km) with CO2 emissions coming in at 179 g/km.  The 650i manages an average of 27.2 mpg (10.4 l per 100 km) and emits 243 grams of CO2 per kilometre.

Customers can have BMW's ConnectedDrive as an option.  ConnectedDrive is essentially a collection of driver assist system that features; a Lane Departure Warning System, Lane Change Warning System, Speed Limit Info, BMW Night Vision with pedestrian recognition, a rear-view camera, Surround view, BMW Parking Assistant.  The ConnectedDrive system provides access to the internet, and also allows emails received on a smart phone to be shown on the control display.  A head up display is optional as well.

The new 6 comes well equipped with comfort features though, among them being a two-zone climate control system, a TV module, DVD changer, a USB audio interface, and an AUX-IN connection for the stereo.  The stereo system comprises of nine speakers, or an optional 16-speaker system (two bass speakers, seven mid range speakers, and seven tweeters with individual amplifiers) by Bang&Olufsen can be had.

Sales in Europe are expected to start in the summer while North American sales should commence soon after in the fall.

Alex Kisiri