2008 BMW 6 Series Review

The 6 Series is a series of luxury coupes and convertibles that first debuted in 1976. Their first run ended in 1989, but it made a comeback for 2004 to replace the 8 Series. A six-cylinder engine was released to compliment the V8 the next year.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The BMW 6 Series is one of the most advanced cars on the market, as well as one of the most powerful. Unfortunately, it's held back a bit by a few reliability issues and BMW's still controversial, love it or hate it, iDrive system. But it's still one of the top cars in its class and it's competitively priced.

What's New For 2008:

The interior and exterior have been updated. An iPod adapter and traffic information are now standard. Active cruise control and a lane departure warning system are now available.

Request a free, no-obligation, new 2008 BMW 6 Series price quote or choose any other model you're interested in and receive the Buying Advice Team's Insider Report for New Car Buyers.

Vital Stats

Starting MSRP:
$78,200

Rebates & Incentives:
no

Seats:
4

Gas Mileage:
15/22

Engine:
4.8L V8

Horsepower:
360@6300RPM

Torque:
360@3400RPM

Transmission:
6 Speed Manual

Drive:
FR/RWD

Fuel Capacity:
19

Fuel Type:
gasoline

Basic Warranty:
48/50000

Powertrain Warranty:
48/50000

Rust Warranty:
144/Unlimi

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power ratings are not available. Issues with the current generation of the 6-Series included oil leaks, electrical issues, cracking lenses and rattling engines. It's been recalled four times for missing retention clips, parking issues, loose nuts and engine stalling. Expect average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for four years or 50,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

Crash test scores are not available. Anti-lock brakes, driver knee airbag, parking sensors, and stability control come standard. Full side airbags are standard on the coupe, while a rollover protection system is included on the convertible. Unique standard features include brake wipers, and brake standby. Active cruise control and lane departure warning are optional.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Technology-savvy features
+ Sporty handling
+ Powerful

Cons
- Small interior
- Plain interior design comparatively
- iDrive

Head-To-Head Competition:

The Prosche 911 gets better gas mileage, but costs a few thousand more and has less cargo room. The Cadillac XLR costs a bit more, but includes an automatic and a CD changer, but has 40 less hp and lacks a moonroof. The Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class 55 AMG costs much less and has an automatic, but has much less cargo space and lacks a moonroof.

What Others Are Saying:

"Quick, crisp, dramatic; more technology than you need, less space and visual grace than you'd like." - USA Today

"Unfortunately, for all concerned, (except BMW, of course), I dutifully returned the car after an hour spent cruising on Sunset Blvd, Rodeo Drive and Melrose Av. Throughout that time, it didn't matter what gearbox ratios the car had, nor that it was equipped with half a dozen intelligent airbags, ARS, ABS, and a Logic 7 audio system. What really mattered was feeling special driving it. And this car has that ingredient aplenty." - The Auto Channel

"The BMW 6 Series is a remarkable car, an intriguing attempt at blending state-of-the-art electronics with award-winning mechanicals. The BMW 650i coupe and convertible succeed, offering a combination of comfort, luxury, sportiness, exhilarating performance and ease of operation that's hard to beat in the class." - The New York Times

Read more about the 2008 BMW 6 Series at the BMW manufacturer web site.

Published on Friday, March 28, 2008 - Email to a friend

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