Used BMW 6 Series Coupe 2003 - 2011 review
Category: Coupé
The BMW 6 Series coupe is a stylish long-distance cruiser that has the comfort and ability you'd expect.
What's the used BMW 6 Series coupe like?
The BMW 6 Series coupe is a relatively rare sight on UK streets, so exclusivity is assured. Plus, it's an impressive grand tourer.
Built to cover long distances, it's lavishly equipped, supple-riding and quick. However, while it's a big car, there's not enough space in the back for adults, and luggage space is barely enough for a week's holiday for two.
It's based on the 5 Series saloon, so it rides and drives with all the polish you'd expect.
The Interior is handsome, but doesn't have the warmth or special feel of some of its more exotic competitors.
Like other BMWs, minor controls are handled through BMW's iDrive system, which employs a single point-and-click dial to control heating, phone, stereo and so on. It's a love-it-or-hate-it device, so spend time with it before you buy.
Ownership cost
What used BMW 6 Series coupe will I get for my budget?
How much does it cost to run a BMW 6 Series coupe?
By BMW standards, depreciation is steep in a 6 Series. But that helps to make it an attractive used car buy once the first owner has suffered the initial loss of value. It certainly makes older ones look attractive buys, but be warned that running costs mount as they enter their middle years.
That said, servicing costs are reasonable and, as on all BMWs, intervals vary according to how you drive. Spares are dear and a pair of tyres will cost several hundreds of pounds to replace.
Insurance falls into group 19 for the 630i, while cover for the others is by special quote only.
For a car of this sort, fuel economy is good, at up to 31mpg overall for the 630i.
Our recommendations
Which used BMW 6 Series coupe should I buy?
Go for the 630i. It's the cheapest model and has the smallest engine, but its 3.0 V8 takes you to 60mph from rest in just 6.5sec. It burbles nicely when worked hard, but otherwise does its work quietly, with either a six-speed manual or auto gearbox.
Its interior may not have quite the special sense of occasion that its big brother, the M6, conveys, but it is still trimmed in leather and has pretty much all you'd ever want, although sat-nav is an extra.
Like all Sixes, it comes in a choice of standard or Sport trim, the latter bringing stiffer suspension and bigger alloy wheels. We prefer standard models for their more absorbent ride and subtler looks.
If you can bear the expense of buying and owning, the other options are the 650i and the M6, which produces 500bhp and screams to 60mph in under 5sec.
For all the latest reviews, advice and new car deals, sign up to the What Car? newsletter here
