BMW 650i 2013 Review

You couldn't describe this one as economical, not by any stretch of the imagination. Rated at 8.9 litres/100km, we were getting a hefty 14.7 at the end of the day and that was taking it easy.

VALUE

But then, if you can afford the $240K price tag, the amount of fuel this car uses is probably not going to be a consideration. Prices range from $184,000 for the entry level 640i or 640d, up to $299,500 for the hi-po M6 version, with the 650i slotting between them at $238,800.

Our test vehicle was fitted with the no-cost M Sport package, Nappa leather, “frozen” matte grey paint and piano black trim inside. Among other things the M Sport pack includes 20 inch wheels and a more strident exhaust note.

TECHNOLOGY

The 4.4-litre V8 petrol engine in the BMW 650i Gran Coupe delivers 330kW of power and 650Nm of torque, the latter from a low 2500 revs, with power to the rear wheels. The new V8 features TwinPower Turbo technology using two turbochargers, plus direct injection and the fully variable valve control.

The V8 is paired with an eight-speed Sport automatic transmission, with auto stop-start and ECO PRO Mode. Variable drive control incorporates adaptive suspension, for a softer or sharper drive feel. The dash from 0 to 100 km/h takes a rapid 4.6 seconds and it has a top speed that is limited to 250km/h. Fuel consumption is rated at 8.9 litres per 100km and it takes premium.

In addition other clever tech includes brake energy regeneration, electromechanical power steering, ancillary units that operate on demand, detachable air conditioning compressor, intelligent use of lightweight materials, active air vent control as well as suspension control systems with on-demand hydraulic technology.

DESIGN

Looks more lithe and athletic than earlier 6 Series efforts. Seats four, with individual seats for the rear passengers plus four-zone air and individual audio controls too. Long list of optional and standard equipment, with a high-end 600 watt, 16-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system providing the musical accompaniment.

Driver assistance systems include Head-Up Display with full-colour graphics, the parking assistant, Surround View, Active Cruise Control with the Stop & Go function, Lane Departure Warning System, Speed Limit Info, High-Beam Assistant and BMW Night Vision with pedestrian warning.

DRIVING

Wooshda. This is a quick car. The big V8 with 330kW of power delivers the goods, thrusting you back in the seat with a snarl when you plant your right foot. Flies under the radar. It is not like an M3 or M5 so the testosterone driven boofheads tend to leave you well enough alone (which suits us just fine).

SAFETY

Five stars of course and a reversing camera is standard. Is equipped with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), and Brake Assist.

Features driver and front passenger airbags, seat occupancy detector for front passenger airbag; head airbags in the front and rear; side airbags for driver and front passenger.

VERDICT

The words stealth fighter spring to mind. Not as overt as some models in the range but a real beauty nevertheless, especially with the matte paint job. Hit the go fast pedal and it takes off.

BMW 650i Coupe

Price: from $231,800
Warranty: 3 years roadside assist
Engine: 4.4-litre 8-cylinder, 330kW/650Nm
Transmission: 8-speed auto, RWD
Thirst: 8.9L/100Km, CO2 206g/km