BMW 6 Series
Used Car Review

Overview

The BMW 6 Series: effortless elegance meets exhilarating performance on every drive. The BMW 6 Series might be exactly what you need. This sophisticated coupe and convertible delivers BMW’s signature driving dynamics wrapped in an elegant, head-turning package. It’s the perfect choice for drivers who want a premium car that excels on long journeys while still offering genuine sporting credentials when the mood strikes.

From its bold kidney grille to its muscular rear haunches, the 6 Series commands attention wherever it goes. It strikes a compelling balance between everyday usability and special occasion glamour that rivals like the Mercedes E-Class Coupe or Audi A5 struggle to match. Step inside and you’re greeted by a cabin that perfectly blends luxury materials with BMW’s driver-focused philosophy. The dashboard flows elegantly towards the driver, while premium leather and brushed metal accents create an atmosphere of understated sophistication.

On the road, the 6 Series truly comes alive. Whether you choose the efficient diesel models or the thunderous V8 petrol variants, every engine delivers smooth, refined power that makes overtaking effortless. The chassis strikes an impressive balance between comfort and control, soaking up motorway miles in serene comfort while remaining engaging on twisting country roads. While it commands a premium price, you’re investing in a car that transforms every journey into something memorable.

What's the BMW 6 Series Like to Drive?

The BMW 6 Series offers a compelling range of engines designed for refined grand touring rather than track-focused thrills. The entry-level 630d diesel delivers around 265 horsepower with impressive torque, making it perfect for effortless motorway cruising while returning excellent fuel economy. For those wanting more excitement, the 640i petrol engine provides smooth, linear power delivery that builds to a satisfying crescendo. The range-topping 650i with its twin-turbo V8 delivers devastating performance, reaching 60mph in just 4.4 seconds while maintaining remarkable refinement.

What sets the 6 Series apart is its sophisticated chassis dynamics. The steering is perfectly weighted, offering genuine feedback without feeling heavy in town. The adaptive suspension seamlessly switches between comfort and sport modes, allowing you to cruise in luxury or attack corners with confidence. The eight-speed automatic gearbox is a masterpiece of smoothness, anticipating your needs and delivering seamless shifts whether you’re overtaking or cruising. This sophisticated coupe feels equally at home on German autobahns or British A-roads, delivering a driving experience that few rivals can match.

Inside the BMW 6 Series: Comfort & Features

The 6 Series cabin rewards your senses with layered luxury that balances performance aesthetics and refined comfort. The dashboard design is quintessentially BMW, with clean lines and a driver-focused layout that puts everything within easy reach. Premium materials are used throughout, from the soft-touch plastics on the upper dashboard to the beautiful leather upholstery that comes as standard on most models. The iDrive infotainment system, controlled via a rotary dial, is intuitive once you learn its logic and offers crisp graphics on the central display screen.

The front seats are superbly comfortable, offering excellent support for long-distance touring while providing enough adjustment to suit drivers of all sizes. Road and wind noise are exceptionally well controlled, creating a serene cabin environment that enhances the luxury experience. Standard equipment is generous, with dual-zone climate control, heated seats, and a premium sound system all included. Higher-specification models add features like massage seats, individual rear seats, and a stunning Harman Kardon sound system that transforms the cabin into a mobile concert hall.

The BMW 6 Series succeeds brilliantly as a sophisticated grand tourer that doesn’t compromise on driving pleasure. Its combination of powerful, refined engines, exceptional build quality, and engaging dynamics creates a compelling package for discerning drivers. The interior is a masterclass in premium design, offering genuine luxury without feeling ostentatious. On the road, it delivers the perfect blend of comfort and performance that makes every journey enjoyable.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

How Much Does It Cost to Run a BMW 6 Series?

You’ll need substantial financial reserves to keep a 6 Series running, though its grand touring credentials justify the considerable expense. The diesel models are the most economical choice, with real-world fuel consumption often exceeding 40mpg on longer journeys. The petrol engines are thirstier, particularly the V8 variants, but still reasonable considering their performance. Insurance groups range from moderate to high, depending on the engine and specification level you choose.

The initial purchase price is significant, positioning the 6 Series firmly in premium territory. However, this investment brings exceptional build quality, advanced technology, and that unmistakable BMW driving experience. Depreciation can be steep in the first few years, making used examples excellent value for money. Maintenance costs are typical for a premium German car, with regular servicing essential to maintain reliability. Many buyers find car finance options help spread the cost, making ownership more accessible than the headline price might suggest.

BMW 6 Series Practicality & Boot Space

For a sleek coupe, the 6 Series offers surprising practicality that makes it genuinely usable as an everyday car. The 460-litre boot is generous for the class, easily accommodating weekend luggage or a substantial weekly shop. The wide opening and low loading lip make it easy to load bulky items, while the rear seats fold to create additional cargo space when needed. Inside the cabin, storage solutions are thoughtfully designed, with door pockets, cupholders, and a decent-sized centre console compartment.

The rear seats are where the 6 Series shows its coupe limitations. While adequate for children or shorter adults on brief journeys, space is tight for taller passengers on longer trips. The sloping roofline also restricts headroom, making the rear seats best suited for occasional use. For couples or empty nesters, however, the 6 Series strikes an excellent balance between style and usability. Its manageable dimensions make it easier to park than larger used BMW cars, while still offering genuine four-seat capability when required.

The BMW 6 Series stands as grand touring excellence incarnate, where sculpted design meets thrilling dynamics and uncompromising luxury in perfect harmony. Its range of powerful yet efficient engines, exceptional interior quality, and composed road manners make it an outstanding choice for drivers who demand the very best. While running costs reflect its premium positioning, the ownership experience more than justifies the investment.

You choose the 6 Series because you want a car that makes every journey special, whether that’s a daily commute or a weekend escape to the coast. Its striking looks turn heads wherever you go, while the sublime interior creates a sanctuary from the outside world. For drivers seeking a sophisticated alternative to more common luxury cars, particularly with flexible financing options making ownership accessible, the 6 Series delivers an unmatched combination of style, performance, and refinement.