2012-2015 BMW 6 Series Coupe (F13) 650i (450 Hp) xDrive Steptronic

Technical Specifications

Brand BMW
Model 6 Series
Generation 6 Series Coupe (F13)
Type 650i (450 Hp) xDrive Steptronic
Start of production 2012
End of production 2015
Powertrain Architecture Internal Combustion engine
Body type Coupe
Seats 4
Doors 2
Fuel consumption (urban) 12.7-13.0 l/100 km (18.5 – 18.1 US mpg, 22.2 – 21.7 UK mpg, 7.9 – 7.7 km/l)
Fuel consumption (extra urban) 7.1-7.2 l/100 km (33.1 – 32.7 US mpg, 39.8 – 39.2 UK mpg, 14.1 – 13.9 km/l)
Fuel consumption (combined) 9.2-9.3 l/100 km (25.6 – 25.3 US mpg, 30.7 – 30.4 UK mpg, 10.9 – 10.8 km/l)
CO2 emissions 213-217 g/km
Fuel Type Petrol (Gasoline)
Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h 4.4 sec
Acceleration 0 – 62 mph 4.4 sec
Acceleration 0 – 60 mph 4.2 sec
Maximum speed 250 km/h (155.34 mph)
Emission standard Euro 5
Weight-to-power ratio 4.1 kg/Hp, 242.6 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio 2.9 kg/Nm, 350.4 Nm/tonne
Power 450 Hp @ 5500 rpm
Power per litre 102.4 Hp/l
Torque 650 Nm @ 2000-4500 rpm (479.42 lb.-ft. @ 2000-4500 rpm)
Engine layout Front, Longitudinal
Engine Model/Code N63B44B
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 10.9 l (11.52 US qt | 9.59 UK qt)
Kerb Weight 1855 kg (4089.57 lbs.)
Max. weight 2350 kg (5180.86 lbs.)
Max load 495 kg (1091.29 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 1665 mm (65.55 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

The BMW 6 Series Coupe (F13) 650i xDrive Steptronic, produced from 2012 to 2015, occupied the performance apex of the F13 6 Series lineup. Serving as the flagship coupe prior to the arrival of the M6, the 650i xDrive combined a powerful twin-turbocharged V8 engine with BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system and an eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission. Its design goal was to deliver a grand touring experience blending exhilarating performance with luxurious comfort, positioning it as a competitor to vehicles like the Porsche 911 and Mercedes-Benz SL-Class.

Powertrain & Engine Architecture

The 650i’s powertrain revolves around BMW’s N63B44B engine, a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8. This engine incorporates direct fuel injection and Valvetronic variable valve timing, contributing to its substantial power output and reasonable fuel efficiency. The twin-turbochargers are strategically positioned within the V-shaped engine bank, minimizing turbo lag and promoting a quicker response. The engine generates 450 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and a robust 650 Nm (479 lb-ft) of torque available across a broad range from 2,000 to 4,500 rpm. This wide torque band is a defining characteristic of the N63 engine. The engine is mounted longitudinally in the front of the vehicle.

Paired with the engine is BMW’s eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission. This transmission offers both fully automatic operation and the option for manual gear selection using steering wheel-mounted paddles. The Steptronic transmission is renowned for its smooth and rapid shifts, enhancing the overall driving experience. The xDrive all-wheel-drive system intelligently distributes power between the front and rear axles, maximizing traction and stability, especially in challenging weather conditions. The system is biased towards the rear wheels, preserving a sporty driving feel.

Driving Characteristics

The 650i xDrive Steptronic provides a refined yet potent driving experience. The abundant torque from the twin-turbo V8 delivers effortless acceleration in almost any gear. The 0-60 mph sprint takes around 4.2 seconds, making it a genuinely quick coupe. The xDrive system ensures excellent grip, inspiring confidence when cornering. While not as aggressively sporty as the M6, the 650i offers a comfortable ride quality well-suited for long-distance grand touring. The Steptronic transmission shifts smoothly and responsively, though some drivers might prefer the more engaging feel of a manual transmission. The gear ratios are carefully tuned to balance acceleration and fuel economy.

Equipment & Trim Levels

The 650i typically came generously equipped as standard. Common features included leather upholstery, power-adjustable heated seats, a premium sound system, navigation, and a sunroof. A wide array of optional extras were available, such as upgraded leather, active steering, adaptive suspension, and various driver-assistance systems like lane departure warning and blind-spot monitoring. Interior trim options ranged from elegant wood veneers to modern aluminum accents. The dashboard layout is designed with the driver in mind, featuring a central iDrive display that controls many vehicle functions.

Chassis & Braking

The F13 650i utilizes a double-wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension. This configuration strikes a good balance between ride comfort and handling precision. Ventilated disc brakes are fitted to all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The braking system is enhanced by ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electronic stability control. The 650i’s chassis is relatively rigid, contributing to its responsive handling characteristics. Standard tire sizes varied depending on the wheel option, ranging from 18-inch to 20-inch wheels.

Market Reception & Comparison

The 650i xDrive Steptronic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, comfortable ride, and luxurious interior. However, some reviewers pointed out that it lacked the raw sporting character of the M6. Compared to the 640i models, the 650i offered significantly more performance, but at a higher price. Fuel economy was reasonable for a V8-powered coupe, but not exceptional. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the cooling system and turbochargers.

Legacy

The F13 650i xDrive Steptronic remains a desirable grand tourer in the used car market. The N63 engine, while capable of high performance, requires diligent maintenance to prevent potential issues. Regular oil changes and thorough inspections of the cooling system are essential. The Steptronic transmission is generally reliable, but fluid changes should be performed according to BMW’s recommended schedule. Overall, the 650i offers a compelling combination of performance, luxury, and technology, making it a rewarding ownership experience for those prepared to invest in its upkeep.

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