The BMW 650i xDrive Steptronic, part of the F13 LCI (Life Cycle Impulse) facelift generation of the 6 Series Coupe produced from 2015 to 2018, represented the performance pinnacle of the range when equipped with the automatic transmission. Positioned as the premium offering, it catered to buyers seeking a blend of luxury, grand touring capability, and potent acceleration. The LCI update brought revised styling cues, enhanced technology, and refinements to the engine lineup, solidifying the 6 Series’ position as a competitor to the Porsche 911 and other high-end sports coupes. This variant distinguished itself through its powerful twin-turbocharged V8 engine and BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system, offering superior traction and stability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 6 Series |
| Generation | 6 Series Coupe (F13 LCI, facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 650i (450 Hp) xDrive Steptronic |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| 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) | 7.0-7.1 l/100 km (33.6 – 33.1 US mpg, 40.4 – 39.8 UK mpg, 14.3 – 14.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.1-9.3 l/100 km (25.8 – 25.3 US mpg, 31 – 30.4 UK mpg, 11 – 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 6 |
| 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 @ 5500-6000 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 | 2365 kg (5213.93 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 | 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) | 0.30 |
| 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 | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| 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 xDrive was the N63B44B engine, a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8. This engine represented a significant evolution of BMW’s V8 technology, featuring direct fuel injection, a twin-scroll turbocharger setup, and variable valve timing (Valvetronic) and variable valve lift. The direct injection system delivered fuel directly into the combustion chambers, improving efficiency and responsiveness. The twin-turbochargers, one for each bank of cylinders, minimized turbo lag and provided a broad, flat torque curve. The engine produced 450 horsepower at 5,500-6,000 rpm and a substantial 650 Nm (479 lb-ft) of torque between 2,000 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 intelligently distributed power between the front and rear axles, enhancing traction and stability in all weather conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 650i xDrive Steptronic offered a refined and powerful driving experience. The combination of the potent V8 engine and the eight-speed automatic transmission resulted in effortless acceleration. While not as raw or focused as a manual transmission equipped 6 Series, the automatic provided seamless gear changes and allowed the driver to focus on enjoying the ride. The xDrive system provided excellent grip, particularly during cornering and acceleration on slippery surfaces. The steering was precise and well-weighted, offering good feedback to the driver. The suspension, tuned for grand touring comfort, provided a smooth and controlled ride, even over uneven road surfaces. Compared to the 640i models, the 650i offered a significant performance advantage, with noticeably quicker acceleration and a more authoritative engine note.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 650i xDrive Steptronic came standard with a comprehensive list of features, including leather upholstery, power-adjustable heated front seats, a premium sound system, a navigation system, and a suite of driver-assistance technologies such as lane departure warning and collision warning. Optional extras included upgraded leather options, a head-up display, adaptive cruise control, and a Bang & Olufsen sound system. The interior design emphasized luxury and sophistication, with high-quality materials and a driver-focused layout. The dashboard featured a large central display screen and intuitive controls.
Chassis & Braking
The F13 6 Series Coupe utilized a sophisticated chassis design featuring a double-wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension. This setup provided a good balance between comfort and handling. The 650i xDrive was equipped with large disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and stability control systems further enhanced safety. The steering system was an electric power steering setup, offering precise and responsive steering feel.
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 complex technology. Compared to the 640i models, the 650i offered a significant performance upgrade, but at a higher cost. Fuel economy was reasonable for a high-performance coupe, but not exceptional. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the cooling system and turbochargers.
Legacy
The BMW 650i xDrive Steptronic (F13 LCI) remains a desirable grand tourer in the used car market. Its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and all-weather capability make it a compelling option for buyers seeking a high-performance coupe. While maintenance costs can be higher than those of the 640i models due to the more complex engine, the 650i offers a unique blend of performance and luxury that continues to appeal to enthusiasts. The N63 engine, while capable, requires diligent maintenance to ensure long-term reliability, particularly regarding cooling system components and oil changes. The F13 generation 6 Series, and particularly the 650i, represents a high point in BMW’s grand touring heritage.
