The BMW 6 Series (E63) 630i Steptronic, produced from 2004 to 2007, represented the entry point into the luxurious and sporty coupe and convertible range of the E63 generation. Positioned below the 635i and 650i, the 630i offered a balance of performance and efficiency, appealing to buyers seeking the 6 Series aesthetic without the higher price tag or more potent engines. It was a key model in BMW’s strategy to broaden the appeal of the 6 Series, competing with grand tourers from Mercedes-Benz and Audi. The “Steptronic” designation refers to the six-speed automatic transmission equipped as standard.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 6 Series |
| Generation | 6 Series (E63) |
| Type (Engine) | 630i (258 Hp) Steptronic |
| Start of production | 2004 |
| End of production | 2007 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.9 l/100 km (16.9 US mpg, 20.3 UK mpg, 7.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7 l/100 km (33.6 US mpg, 40.4 UK mpg, 14.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.5 l/100 km (24.8 US mpg, 29.7 UK mpg, 10.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.8 kg/Hp, 171.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm, 199.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 258 Hp @ 6600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 86.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 2500 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | N52B30A |
| Engine displacement | 2996 cm3 (182.83 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 85 mm (3.35 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.7:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1505 kg (3317.96 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1955 kg (4310.04 lbs.) |
| Max load | 450 kg (992.08 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 450 l (15.89 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4820 mm (189.76 in.) |
| Width | 1855 mm (73.03 in.) |
| Height | 1373 mm (54.06 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2780 mm (109.45 in.) |
| Front track | 1558 mm (61.34 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1592 mm (62.68 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 245/40 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The 630i was powered by the N52B30A, a 3.0-liter inline-six engine. This engine was a significant advancement over its predecessor, the M54, featuring a fully variable valve timing system (Double-VANOS) and a magnesium alloy engine block for reduced weight. The N52 utilized a Siemens MSV80 engine control unit and multi-port fuel injection. The engine produced 258 horsepower at 6600 rpm and 221 lb-ft of torque at 2500 rpm. The standard transmission was a six-speed automatic, marketed as “Steptronic,” offering both fully automatic operation and manual shift capability via steering wheel-mounted paddles or the gear selector. This transmission was known for its smooth shifts and responsiveness, though some critics found it less engaging than the available six-speed manual.
Driving Characteristics
The 630i Steptronic offered a comfortable and refined grand touring experience. While not as overtly sporty as the 635i or 650i, the 3.0-liter engine provided adequate power for everyday driving and highway cruising. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 6.4 seconds, and the car had a top speed of 155 mph. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for a balance of fuel efficiency and performance. Compared to the manual transmission version, the Steptronic offered smoother shifts but slightly reduced responsiveness. The 630i’s weight distribution and well-tuned suspension contributed to stable handling, though it wasn’t as agile as some of its lighter competitors.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 630i came standard with a generous array of features, including leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and xenon headlights. Optional extras included a navigation system, sport seats, active steering, and a panoramic sunroof. Interior trim options included various wood veneers and aluminum accents. The standard dashboard configuration featured analog gauges with a central information display. The 630i was often seen as a more accessible entry point to the 6 Series range, allowing buyers to enjoy the car’s styling and luxury without the expense of the higher-spec models.
Chassis & Braking
The E63 6 Series featured a sophisticated chassis design with a multi-link rear suspension. The 630i utilized coil springs at both the front and rear. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were standard, as was electronic stability control. The 630i’s suspension was tuned for comfort, providing a smooth ride over most road surfaces. The steering was hydraulically assisted, offering precise and responsive control. The standard tire size was 245/40 R17, mounted on 17-inch alloy wheels.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 630i Steptronic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, refined interior, and balanced performance. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the outright power of the 635i and 650i. Fuel economy was respectable for a vehicle of its size and class, averaging around 24.8 mpg combined. Compared to the 635i, the 630i offered lower running costs due to its smaller engine and simpler mechanicals. The 630i also represented a more affordable entry point into the 6 Series range, making it an attractive option for buyers who prioritized luxury and style over ultimate performance.
Legacy
The N52B30A engine, found in the 630i, is known for its reliability and longevity when properly maintained. The Steptronic automatic transmission is also generally considered durable. However, like all BMWs of this era, the 630i can be susceptible to age-related issues such as cooling system leaks, oil leaks, and electrical problems. On the used car market, the 630i Steptronic represents a relatively affordable way to experience the BMW 6 Series. Its combination of luxury, style, and reasonable running costs makes it a popular choice among enthusiasts and those seeking a comfortable grand tourer.
