The BMW 6 Series Coupe (F13) 650i xDrive Steptronic, produced from 2011 to 2012, represented the high-performance end of the second-generation 6 Series lineup. Positioned as the flagship coupe before the arrival of the M6, the 650i combined a potent twin-turbocharged V8 engine with BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system and an eight-speed automatic transmission. It aimed to deliver a grand touring experience characterized by both exhilarating performance and luxurious comfort, competing with vehicles like the Porsche 911 and Mercedes-Benz CL-Class. The F13 generation, built on the BMW F06/F12 platform, sought to recapture the spirit of the original 6 Series coupes while incorporating modern technology and design cues.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 6 Series |
| Generation | 6 Series Coupe (F13) |
| Type | 650i (407 Hp) xDrive Steptronic |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 16.5 l/100 km (14.3 US mpg, 17.1 UK mpg, 6.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.2-8.3 l/100 km (28.7 – 28.3 US mpg, 34.4 – 34 UK mpg, 12.2 – 12 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.3 l/100 km (20.8 US mpg, 25 UK mpg, 8.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 262-263 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.5 kg/Hp, 220.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.1 kg/Nm, 325.2 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 | 14.6 l (15.43 US qt | 12.85 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1845 kg (4067.53 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2350 kg (5180.86 lbs.) |
| Max load | 505 kg (1113.33 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 | 1369 mm (53.9 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) | 0.32 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.7 m (38.39 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| 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 was the N63B44A 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine. This engine represented a significant advancement in BMW’s powertrain technology. It featured direct fuel injection, a twin-scroll turbocharger setup, and variable valve timing (VANOS) and variable valve lift (Valvetronic) on both intake and exhaust sides. The twin-turbo configuration minimized turbo lag and provided a broad, flat torque curve. The engine produced 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. This power was channeled through an eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission, known for its smooth and quick shifts. The xDrive all-wheel-drive system distributed power between the front and rear axles, enhancing traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 650i xDrive Steptronic delivered a refined and powerful driving experience. The combination of the twin-turbo V8 and the eight-speed automatic resulted in brisk acceleration – 0 to 60 mph in approximately 4.6 seconds. The xDrive system provided confident handling and minimized understeer, making the car feel secure and planted in corners. While not as overtly sporty as the upcoming M6, the 650i offered ample power for both highway cruising and spirited driving. The automatic transmission, while generally smooth, could occasionally feel hesitant during downshifts. The steering was precise and well-weighted, providing good feedback to the driver. Compared to the 640i models, the 650i offered a significantly more potent and engaging driving experience, albeit at the cost of increased fuel consumption.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 650i xDrive Steptronic came standard with a comprehensive list of features, reflecting its position as the premium model in the 6 Series Coupe range. Standard equipment included leather upholstery, power-adjustable heated front seats, a premium sound system, a navigation system, and automatic climate control. Optional extras were plentiful, including adaptive cruise control, a head-up display, active steering, and various interior trim options. The interior design emphasized luxury and sophistication, with high-quality materials and a driver-focused layout. Exterior options included a variety of wheel designs and paint colors.
Chassis & Braking
The F13 650i featured a sophisticated chassis designed to balance comfort and handling. The front suspension utilized a double wishbone design, while the rear employed an independent multi-link setup. This configuration provided a smooth ride and precise control. The car was equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The xDrive all-wheel-drive system contributed to enhanced braking stability. The standard suspension setup was tuned for a balance between comfort and performance, while an optional adaptive suspension system allowed drivers to adjust the damping characteristics to suit their preferences.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 650i xDrive 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 models, the 650i offered a significant performance upgrade, but at a higher cost and with slightly lower fuel economy. The 650i competed directly with the Porsche 911 and Mercedes-Benz CL-Class, offering a different blend of performance, luxury, and practicality. Fuel economy, while respectable for a V8-powered coupe, was not a strong point, averaging around 20.8 US mpg in combined driving.
Legacy
The N63B44A engine, while powerful, was known to have some reliability issues, particularly with the early production years. Common problems included coolant leaks from the thermostat housing and issues with the turbochargers. However, many of these issues were addressed in later revisions of the engine. Today, the F13 650i xDrive Steptronic represents a compelling option for buyers seeking a luxurious and powerful grand tourer. Well-maintained examples can still provide years of enjoyable driving, but potential buyers should be aware of the potential maintenance costs associated with the complex engine and drivetrain. The car remains a desirable vehicle in the used car market, appreciated for its blend of performance, luxury, and style.
