The BMW 6 Series Coupe (F13) 650i Steptronic, produced from 2011 to 2012, represented the high-performance end of the F13 6 Series range. Positioned as the flagship coupe before the arrival of the M6, the 650i combined a powerful V8 engine with BMW’s sophisticated Steptronic automatic transmission, offering a blend of luxury, performance, and technology. It was designed to compete with grand tourers from brands like Mercedes-Benz and Porsche, appealing to buyers seeking a refined yet exhilarating driving experience. The F13 generation, built on the BMW F06/F12 platform, aimed to recapture the spirit of the original 6 Series coupes while incorporating modern engineering and design cues.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 6 Series |
| Generation | 6 Series Coupe (F13) |
| Type (Engine) | 650i (407 Hp) Steptronic |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 15.4-15.5 l/100 km (15.3 – 15.2 US mpg, 18.3 – 18.2 UK mpg, 6.5 – 6.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.7 l/100 km (30.5 US mpg, 36.7 UK mpg, 13 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.5-10.6 l/100 km (22.4 – 22.2 US mpg, 26.9 – 26.6 UK mpg, 9.5 – 9.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 245-246 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.3 kg/Hp, 229.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3 kg/Nm, 339 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 407 Hp @ 5500-6400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 92.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 600 Nm @ 1750-4500 rpm (442.54 lb.-ft. @ 1750-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | N63B44A |
| Engine displacement | 4395 cm3 (268.2 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88.3 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-power turbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 11.4 l (12.05 US qt | 10.03 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1770 kg (3902.18 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2280 kg (5026.54 lbs.) |
| Max load | 510 kg (1124.36 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 460 l (16.24 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4894 mm (192.68 in.) |
| Width | 1894 mm (74.57 in.) |
| Height | 1396 mm (54.96 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2855 mm (112.4 in.) |
| Front track | 1600 mm (62.99 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1657 mm (65.24 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 124 mm (4.88 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.7 m (38.39 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission Steptronic |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 245/45 R18; 275/45 R18; 245/40 R19; 275/35 R19; 245/35 R20; 275/30 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 18; 9J x 18; 8.5J x 19; 9J x 19; 8.5J x 20; 9J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 650i Steptronic is BMW’s N63B44A 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine. This engine, a significant departure from naturally aspirated BMW V8s of the past, utilizes direct injection and Valvetronic variable valve timing to optimize both power and efficiency. The twin-turbocharger setup, employing two small turbochargers, minimizes turbo lag and provides a broad, flat torque curve. The engine produces 407 horsepower at 5,500-6,400 rpm and a substantial 600 Nm (442 lb-ft) of torque between 1,750 and 4,500 rpm. The Steptronic 8-speed automatic transmission is integral to the driving experience. This transmission features a torque converter and allows for both fully automatic operation and manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddles. The transmission’s programming is tuned to provide smooth shifts and quick responses, complementing the engine’s power delivery.
Driving Characteristics
The 650i Steptronic delivers a refined yet potent driving experience. The twin-turbo V8 provides ample power for effortless acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of around 4.7 seconds. The Steptronic transmission contributes to this performance with its quick and precise shifts. Compared to the 640i models, the 650i offers a significantly more powerful and responsive driving experience. While the 640i prioritizes fuel efficiency, the 650i focuses on delivering a more engaging and dynamic performance. The automatic transmission, while convenient, doesn’t offer the same level of driver engagement as the available manual transmission in some markets. However, the Steptronic’s Sport mode sharpens shift points and provides more aggressive downshifts, enhancing the driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 650i Steptronic came standard with a comprehensive list of luxury features. Interior appointments included leather upholstery, power-adjustable seats with memory function, a premium sound system, and a navigation system. Standard exterior features included 18-inch alloy wheels, xenon headlights, and a power glass sunroof. Optional extras were plentiful, including upgraded leather options, a head-up display, active steering, and a variety of driver-assistance systems like lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control. The interior design emphasized a driver-focused layout with a curved dashboard and high-quality materials.
Chassis & Braking
The F13 650i features a double-wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and precise handling. The suspension is tuned to balance comfort and performance, offering a stable and controlled driving experience. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The 650i also incorporates BMW’s Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system, which helps to maintain stability during cornering and emergency maneuvers. The standard wheel and tire sizes were 245/45 R18 front and 275/45 R18 rear, with larger options available as upgrades.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 650i Steptronic was generally well-received by automotive critics. Reviewers praised its powerful engine, refined ride, and luxurious interior. However, some criticized its relatively high price and the complexity of its technology. Compared to the 640i, the 650i offered a significant performance upgrade but at a higher cost and with slightly lower fuel economy. The 650i competed directly with the Mercedes-Benz CL-Class and Porsche 911, offering a unique blend of luxury and performance. Fuel economy, while respectable for a V8-powered coupe, was not a strong point, with combined figures around 22.4 mpg.
Legacy
The N63B44A engine, while powerful, has been known to require careful maintenance, particularly regarding cooling system components and turbocharger health. Early versions of the engine experienced some issues with coolant leaks and oil consumption, but these were largely addressed in later revisions. Today, the F13 650i represents a compelling option for buyers seeking a luxurious and high-performance grand tourer. Well-maintained examples command a premium in the used car market. The combination of a powerful V8 engine, a sophisticated automatic transmission, and a luxurious interior ensures that the 650i remains a desirable and rewarding vehicle to drive.
