The BMW 6 Series (E63) facelift 630i Steptronic, produced from 2007 to 2010, represented a compelling blend of luxury and performance within the BMW lineup. Positioned as a mid-range offering in the 6 Series coupe range, it slotted between the entry-level 630i and the higher-performance 650i models. This variant aimed to provide a refined driving experience with a balance of power and efficiency, appealing to buyers seeking a grand tourer without the outright expense or sporting focus of its more powerful sibling. The E63 generation, and specifically this facelifted version, was BMW’s attempt to recapture the spirit of the original 6 Series coupes of the 1970s and 80s, offering a more driver-focused alternative to the contemporary 7 Series sedan.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 6 Series |
| Generation | 6 Series (E63, facelift 2007) |
| Type (Engine) | 630i (272 Hp) Steptronic |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 11 l/100 km (21.4 US mpg, 25.7 UK mpg, 9.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg, 48.7 UK mpg, 17.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 7.7 l/100 km (30.5 US mpg, 36.7 UK mpg, 13 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 184 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.7 kg/Hp, 176.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 kg/Nm, 207.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 272 Hp @ 6700 rpm |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 2750-3000 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 2750-3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | N53B30A |
| 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 | 12:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, Double-VANOS |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10.5 l (11.1 US qt | 9.24 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1540 kg (3395.12 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1990 kg (4387.2 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.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2060 mm (81.1 in.) |
| Height | 1374 mm (54.09 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2780 mm (109.45 in.) |
| Front track | 1558 mm (61.34 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1596 mm (62.83 in.) |
| Front overhang | 942 mm (37.09 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1098 mm (43.23 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission Steptronic |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 348×30 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 345×24 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 245/50 R17; 245/45 R18; 245/40 R19Rear wheel tires: 245/50 R17; 245/45 R18; 275/40 R18; 275/35 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 7.5J x 17; 8J x 18; 8.5J x 19Rear wheel rims: 7.5J x 17; 8J x 18; 9J x 18; 9J x 19 |
INTRODUCTION
The BMW 630i Steptronic, part of the E63 facelift series introduced in 2007, was designed to broaden the appeal of the 6 Series. The facelift brought revised styling, including updated headlights and taillights, along with improvements to the interior and engine management systems. This iteration of the 630i utilized the N53B30A inline-six engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission (Steptronic). It aimed to deliver a comfortable and capable grand touring experience, appealing to buyers who prioritized refinement and ease of use over outright performance.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 630i Steptronic lies the N53B30A 3.0-liter inline-six engine. This engine is a naturally aspirated powerplant featuring direct fuel injection, a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, and BMW’s Double-VANOS variable valve timing system. The Double-VANOS system independently adjusts the timing of both intake and exhaust valves, optimizing engine performance and efficiency across the rev range. The N53 engine was known for its smooth power delivery and relatively high specific output. The six-speed Steptronic automatic transmission offered both fully automatic operation and a manual shift mode, allowing drivers to exert more control when desired. The transmission was designed to provide smooth and responsive gear changes, complementing the engine’s characteristics.
Driving Characteristics
The 630i Steptronic offered a distinctly different driving experience compared to the more powerful 650i or the manual transmission versions of the 630i. While it didn’t possess the same level of outright acceleration, the automatic transmission provided a relaxed and effortless driving experience, particularly in city traffic or on long highway journeys. The Steptronic transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for a balance of fuel efficiency and responsiveness. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 6.1 seconds, making it a reasonably quick vehicle, but not a performance leader in its class. The emphasis was on smooth power delivery and comfortable cruising rather than aggressive acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 630i Steptronic came standard with a comprehensive list of features, befitting its luxury grand tourer status. Standard equipment typically included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and BMW’s iDrive infotainment system. Optional extras were plentiful, allowing buyers to customize their vehicles to their preferences. Popular options included a navigation system, upgraded leather trim, sport seats, a sunroof, and adaptive headlights. The interior design was characterized by a driver-focused layout and high-quality materials.
Chassis & Braking
The E63 6 Series featured a sophisticated chassis designed to deliver a comfortable yet engaging driving experience. The front suspension utilized a spring strut design with a transverse stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension employed an independent multi-link setup, also with a transverse stabilizer bar. This configuration provided a good balance of ride comfort and handling precision. The 630i Steptronic was equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 630i Steptronic was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its comfortable ride, refined interior, and smooth engine. However, some reviewers noted that it lacked the outright performance of the 650i and that the automatic transmission, while competent, didn’t offer the same level of driver engagement as the manual gearbox. Compared to the 650i, the 630i offered a more affordable entry point into the 6 Series range, with lower running costs due to its smaller engine. Fuel economy was respectable for a vehicle of its size and class, averaging around 30.5 US mpg in combined driving.
Legacy
The BMW E63 630i Steptronic has established itself as a desirable used car, particularly among enthusiasts seeking a stylish and comfortable grand tourer. The N53 engine, while generally reliable, is known to be susceptible to certain issues, such as fuel injector failures and cooling system leaks, requiring preventative maintenance. The Steptronic transmission is also generally durable, but regular fluid changes are essential to ensure its longevity. Today, well-maintained examples of the 630i Steptronic offer a compelling combination of luxury, performance, and value, making them a popular choice for those seeking a classic BMW experience.
