The New 6 Series Coupe
Published: 25th October 2003
Dynamic performance of the highest standard - this naturally also applies, without restriction, to the optional six-speed automatic transmission combining sports motoring and a smooth, comfortable gearshift with a standard of perfection never seen before in this category: running in automatic transmission, the 645Ci accelerates from 0-100 km/h in just 5.8 seconds and returns superior fuel economy of 10.9 litres/100 km (25.9 mpg Imp) in the European combined cycle.
Performance of an even higher standard at the touch of
a button
Pressing the DDC (Dynamic Drive Control) button featured on all
transmissions, the driver is able to give the entire car an even
more sporting and dynamic character. Motoring comfort is intentionally
reduced at the same time, the engines responding with even faster
acceleration while the gas pedal remains in the same position. Pressing
down the gas pedal, in turn, the driver will trigger an even more
dynamic, progressive response.
On models fitted with automatic transmission, DDC waits for higher engine speeds before shifting to the next gear, whilst on models with SMG transmission gearshift times become even shorter. A further effect of DDC is the modification of steering forces (not with Active Steering), DDC thus giving the sporting and ambitious driver an even better response and feel for the road.
Sporting, safe, comfortable
Performance beyond any doubt is one thing, the way this supreme
power is conveyed to the road is another. And to ensure perfect
transmission of power to the road beneath, the new 6 Series comes
with an all-aluminium chassis and suspension tailored perfectly
to the sporting character of the car. Hydraulic rack-and-pinion
steering with Servotronic ensures the high standard of directional
accuracy and precise feedback from the steering so essential on
a coupé of this calibre, Servotronic varying the degree of
steering assistance by means of a control curve geared to road speed.
Active Steering for even better handling
Only active control systems are able to further enhance the safe
and comfortable driving pleasure the BMW 6 Series offers from the
start as a regular feature. Fitted with Active Steering available
as an option, the 645Ci responds even more directly and, as a result,
with a far higher standard of agility and precision to the driver's
steering commands at low speeds, steering response then becoming
increasingly indirect at higher speeds in the interest of even better
and smoother directional stability. The big advantage for the driver
is that the 645Ci is far more agile and offers much better handling
than one would expect of a car of this size. Indeed, it is quite
appropriate to describe this as a kind of go-kart feeling, with
Active Steering enhancing the agility of BMW's large coupé
to a standard never seen before.
