BMW 6-Series

By Sam Hardy

29th June 2007

On sale in September, the face­lifted coupé and convertible models will be available with the 286bhp straight-six unit for the first time, making the 6-Series the only car in its class to run on diesel power.

The newcomers are badged 635d, and promise impressive performance. The coupé covers 0-62mph in 6.3 sec­onds and achieves 40.9mpg combined economy, while the cabrio completes the sprint in 6.6 seconds and returns 39.2mpg. Both are electronically limited to maximum speeds of 155mph.

The diesels get a revised six-speed automatic box, which also appears in the fresh petrol models: the 272bhp 3.0-litre petrol-engined 630i and the 367bhp 4.8-litre V8-powered 650i. The latter are more economical by 15 per cent and five per cent respectively, thanks to the addition of a new brake energy regeneration system. All variants get a revised look with tweaked headlamps incorporating LED running lights, a smoother lower bumper with restyled air intakes and new kidney grilles. At the rear, the boot shape has been softened and now features an integral central brake light. LED tail-lamps complete the changes.

Inside, there are new materials and colours for the dashboard and upholstery, while the iDrive cabin control system has been updated to include a row of eight 'favourite' buttons on the centre console. Prices have yet to be revealed, but the revised 6-Series range is expected to rise slightly from the current starting point of £47,975.

Meanwhile, BMW has introduced its Efficient Dynamics systems across the 3-Series line-up to improve economy. That means all petrol models are now fitted with fuel saving direct-injection technology. Brake energy regeneration - which recovers heat energy during braking - is also added, while an automatic stop-start feature is available on all four-cylinder cars.

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