With a profile defined by voluptuous curves, few cars can provide the kind of instant recognition like the BMW 6 Series Coupe and Convertible. In addition to their provocative silhouettes, the 650i Coupe and Convertible set the benchmark as exemplary driver’s cars combining performance, luxury and exclusivity in equal measure. With 360 horsepower routed through either a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission, the 650i Coupe and Convertible have always offered cutting-edge performance to complement their undiluted luxury. Even now, four years after their introduction, the Coupe and Convertible remain two of the best-selling members of their class.
For 2008, a host of refinements enable these new models to maintain their class-leading positions. Subtle exterior changes enhance the look of both the Coupe and Convertible, setting them apart from previous models while still maintaining the 6 Series’ distinctive profile. Revised lighting increases the cars’ visibility front and rear, making it easier for the driver to see and be seen.
Interior changes make the 6 Series Coupe and Convertible even more luxurious than before, with upgrades to the standard and optional leather. The Convertible’s interior also adds leather with BMW’s new Sun Reflective Technology, which significantly reduces heat gain from sunlight. New wheels give the cars a sportier look, and a new Sport Automatic transmission backs up that look with quicker, more responsive shifting and even more driver control.
New technological features also make their appearance for ‘08, including BMW’s Lane Departure Warning system, a camera-based system that monitors lane placement and discreetly notifies the driver of any inadvertent lane change. Active Cruise Control becomes even more convenient via a new Stop and Go feature, which enables the system to function even in heavy traffic. Active Cruise allows the vehicle to come to a complete stop without losing its setting, then accelerate back up to set speed with only a touch of the accelerator pedal from the driver. A new Premium Sound Package adds a USB Adapter for an iPod or MP3 player. And BMW’s leading-edge iDrive system adds a row of “favorites” buttons, known as Programmable Memory Keys, which can be used for anything from radio-station presets to pre-programmed destinations with the 6 Series standard navigation system.
Inside or out, the 6 Series represents BMW’s vision of a luxury-performance coupe and convertible. For 2008, that vision takes on a slightly sharper focus.
What’s new for 2008
As of 9/07 production (650i Coupe and Convertible):
2008 model selection remains as before:
- 650i Coupe
- 650i Convertible
Exterior design & function 650i Coupe and Convertible- Reconfigured optical headlight lenses
- New front airdam has larger, reshaped opening
- Amber DOT reflectors relocated to lower bumper, ahead of the wheel-wells; headlight area is completely white
- Taillights include new LED design
- Reshaped trunklid, with taller spoiler along top edge and third brake light incorporated into the rear deck
Power & performance
Both 6 Series models:
- New optional Sport Automatic includes steering-wheel paddle shifters and rpm matching during downshifts (beginning 06/07 production), plus a Sport button for quicker, more dynamic shifting
- New electronic shifter, similar to that in the 5 Series, offers “shift-by-wire” actuation and more ergonomic operation
- SMG no longer available
- Standard 18-inch and optional 19-inch cast alloy wheels are all updated designs, giving the 650i Coupe and Convertible a sportier look.
- Sport Package now includes forged 19-inch wheels with a higher strength/weight ratio. These produce lower unsprung weight, improving suspension response and ride characteristics.
Comfort & convenience- Revised interior
- Brushed aluminum replaces Ruthenium on radio knobs
- Brushed aluminum iDrive controller
- iDrive includes six programmable “favorites” buttons, which can be set to many frequently used features including destination addresses, auto-dialed phone numbers or radio station presets
- Leather-wrapped center console
- Seats on 650i Convertible include Sun Reflective Technology to keep seats cooler even in bright daylight.
Safety & security- All standard and optional seats now include Active Head Restraints to minimize the chance of head or neck injury in a rear-end collision
- LED brake and turnsignal lights provide quicker response and brighter illumination than conventional bulbs
- A wider, trunklid-mounted third brake light improves rear visibility during braking
Options- Active Cruise Control Stop & Go allows operation even in dense traffic, and can accommodate speeds all the way down to a complete stop, and resume to set speed from 0 mph
- Lane Departure Warning system provides an immediate notification when the car crosses into another lane without turn signals
- USB adaptor for iPods or MP3 players provides complete access to the owner’s digital recordings via the iDrive system, without using the car’s CD changer connections
Power & performance:
Superlative performance with the 4.8-liter Valvetronic V-8 engine
Under the 650i models’ aluminum hood is a further evolution of the technologically advanced and unique N62 V-8 engine. As such, this power unit continues with BMW’s revolutionary Valvetronic system, which controls engine power by varying valve lift instead of relying on a conventional throttle. Compared to conventional valvegear, Valvetronic enhances torque, power and efficiency.
Indeed, the 650 engine achieves even greater specific power than its predecessor: With 9.1% more displacement (it’s up from 4.4 to 4.8 liters), power rose 35 hp (10.8%) from 325 to 360 hp. Likewise, its torque curve is richer; a higher torque peak of 360 lb-ft. (up from 330) occurs at 3400 rpm, down 200 rpm from the predecessor. The more readily experienced advance, however, is added urge virtually anytime the driver presses down on the accelerator pedal, especially at midrange speeds.
One additional advantage of the additional displacement was a simplified induction system. The previous version had a fully variable induction system, capable of varying the induction passages’ length steplessly from minimum to maximum. With the current engine’s increased displacement boosting torque, BMW’s engine engineers simplified the induction system to 2 stages, one for low to medium engine speeds, the other for high engine speeds.
[source bmw]
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