The BMW 6 Series (F06/F12/F13) is a range of grand tourers produced by German automobile manufacturer BMW from 2011 to 2019. The F06 and F12 models were coupes, while the F13 was a convertible.
Design and Features
The 6 Series was designed as a more luxurious alternative to the 5 Series, with a focus on comfort, performance, and style. Its sleek design features a long hood, short rear deck, and a sloping roofline, giving it a distinctive appearance. The F06 coupe had a slightly shorter wheelbase than the F12, while the F13 convertible shared its platform with the F12.
Inside, the 6 Series boasted premium materials, including leather, wood trim, and aluminum accents. It also featured advanced technology like iDrive infotainment systems, navigation, and Bluetooth connectivity. The cabin was designed to be spacious, with ample legroom for passengers in the front and rear seats.
Engine and Performance
The 6 Series came equipped with a range of powerful engines, including inline-6, V8, and V12 powerplants. The F06 and F12 coupes were initially available with a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine producing 400 horsepower, while the F13 convertible offered a less powerful variant of this engine, producing 300 horsepower.
In 2013, BMW introduced a new, more efficient 6 Series, known as the Gran Coupe (F06). This updated model featured a more aerodynamic design and improved fuel economy. It was also available with various engine options, including a hybrid variant that combined a V8 engine with an electric motor.
Specifications
- Length: 4,855 mm (190.7 in) - F06/F12; 4,859 mm (191.0 in) - F13
- Width: 1,895 mm (74.6 in)
- Height: 1,362 mm (53.5 in) - F06/F12; 1,365 mm (53.7 in) - F13
- Wheelbase: 2,830 mm (111.4 in) - F06; 3,020 mm (118.9 in) - F12/F13
- Curb weight: approximately 1,900 kg (4,189 lb)
Reception and Sales
The BMW 6 Series received widespread critical acclaim for its exceptional performance, luxurious interior, and stunning design. It won numerous awards during its production run, including the 2012 World Car Design of the Year award.
Sales-wise, the 6 Series was a moderate success, with around 60,000 units sold worldwide between 2011 and 2019. The coupe variants were more popular than the convertible, which suffered from lower sales due to its higher price point and reduced cargo space.
Discontinuation
In 2019, BMW announced that it would discontinue the 6 Series in favor of new models like the 8 Series (G15) and the X7 (F97). The last 6 Series rolled off the assembly line in June 2019, marking the end of an era for this iconic grand tourer.