The BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe (F06) 640d xDrive Steptronic was a luxury four-door coupe produced by BMW from 2013 to 2015. Positioned as a high-performance variant within the F06 generation, it combined a powerful diesel engine with BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system and a sophisticated eight-speed automatic transmission. This model aimed to deliver a blend of grand touring comfort, sporty handling, and impressive fuel efficiency, appealing to buyers seeking a premium coupe experience with added practicality. It sat towards the upper end of the 6 Series Gran Coupe range, offering a step up in performance from the 630d and 635d models, while remaining below the flagship 650i.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 6 Series |
| Generation | 6 Series Gran Coupe (F06) |
| Type (Engine) | 640d (313 Hp) xDrive Steptronic |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.1-7.4 l/100 km (33.1 – 31.8 US mpg, 39.8 – 38.2 UK mpg, 14.1 – 13.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.0-5.2 l/100 km (47 – 45.2 US mpg, 56.5 – 54.3 UK mpg, 20 – 19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.8-6.0 l/100 km (40.6 – 39.2 US mpg, 48.7 – 47.1 UK mpg, 17.2 – 16.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 152-158 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6 kg/Hp, 167.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3 kg/Nm, 336.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 313 Hp @ 4400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 104.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 630 Nm @ 1500-2500 rpm (464.66 lb.-ft. @ 1500-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | N57D30B |
| Engine displacement | 2993 cm3 (182.64 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-power turbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1870 kg (4122.64 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2470 kg (5445.42 lbs.) |
| Max load | 600 kg (1322.77 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 460 l (16.24 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1265 l (44.67 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 5007 mm (197.13 in.) |
| Width | 1894 mm (74.57 in.) |
| Height | 1392 mm (54.8 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2968 mm (116.85 in.) |
| Front track | 1600 mm (62.99 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1665 mm (65.55 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 126 mm (4.96 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.95 m (39.21 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 8 |
| Gearbox type | 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 | 225/55 R17; 245/45 R18; 245/40 R19; 275/35 R19; 245/35 R20; 275/30 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 17; 8J x 18; 8.5J x 19; 9J x 19; 8.5J x 20; 9J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 640d xDrive Steptronic is BMW’s N57D30B inline-six diesel engine. This 3.0-liter engine utilizes a sophisticated common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. The N57 engine family is renowned for its efficiency and refinement. The 640d variant features a twin-turbocharger setup – a smaller turbocharger for immediate response at low engine speeds and a larger turbocharger for increased power at higher RPMs. An intercooler further enhances performance by cooling the compressed intake air. The engine produces 313 horsepower at 4,400 rpm and a substantial 630 Nm (464.66 lb-ft) of torque between 1,500 and 2,500 rpm. This broad torque curve is a hallmark of diesel engines and contributes to the 640d’s effortless acceleration. The engine is paired with BMW’s eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission, known for its smooth and quick shifts. This transmission allows for both fully automatic operation and manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddles.
Driving Characteristics
The 640d xDrive Steptronic delivers a refined and powerful driving experience. The abundant low-end torque from the diesel engine provides strong acceleration in everyday driving situations, making overtaking effortless. While not as overtly sporty as the gasoline-powered 650i, the 640d offers a more than adequate level of performance, achieving 0-60 mph in around 5 seconds. The xDrive all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions. The eight-speed automatic transmission is well-tuned, offering smooth and seamless gear changes. Compared to the 630d, the 640d offers a noticeable increase in power and responsiveness. Compared to the 635d, the performance difference is less pronounced, but the 640d’s slightly higher output and refined engine characteristics provide a more premium feel.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 640d xDrive Steptronic came standard with a comprehensive list of features, befitting its luxury positioning. Standard equipment typically included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, a premium sound system, a navigation system, automatic climate control, and a host of safety features such as ABS, stability control, and multiple airbags. Optional extras included features like adaptive cruise control, a head-up display, a panoramic sunroof, upgraded leather trim, and various interior customization options. Trim levels were relatively limited, with most customization occurring through individual options rather than distinct packages.
Chassis & Braking
The 6 Series Gran Coupe features a sophisticated chassis designed to balance comfort and handling. The front suspension utilizes a double wishbone setup, while the rear employs an independent multi-link suspension. This configuration provides a smooth ride and precise handling. The 640d xDrive Steptronic is equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The xDrive all-wheel-drive system distributes power between the front and rear axles as needed, optimizing traction and stability. The steering is electrically assisted, offering a precise and responsive feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 640d xDrive Steptronic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful and efficient engine, refined ride quality, and luxurious interior. The combination of diesel power and all-wheel drive was seen as a particularly appealing feature for buyers in regions with harsh winters or those who frequently undertake long journeys. Fuel economy was a strong point, with the 640d achieving combined fuel consumption figures in the range of 39.2-40.6 US mpg. Compared to the gasoline-powered 650i, the 640d offered comparable performance with significantly better fuel economy. However, some critics noted that the diesel engine lacked the aural excitement of the 650i’s V8.
Legacy
The N57 engine family, including the N57D30B found in the 640d, has proven to be remarkably reliable. While diesel engines can be susceptible to issues with the particulate filter and fuel injection system, the N57 has generally demonstrated good long-term durability. Today, used examples of the 640d xDrive Steptronic represent a compelling value proposition for buyers seeking a luxurious and capable grand tourer. Maintenance costs are generally reasonable, and the availability of parts is good. The 640d’s blend of performance, efficiency, and practicality has ensured its continued appeal in the used car market.
