BMW 6 Series 2011-2018 prices and specs

The 6 Series shares its plaform with models as diverse as the 5 Series and Rolls-Royce Ghost

More upright kidney grille and prominent surround are nods to the original 6 Series’ shark nose

The 650i’s reversing camera is hidden away under the boot release, which pops up when you select reverse

Double corona headlamps and LED daytime running lights give the car a recognisable BMW visual character in the rear-view mirror

The sides are free from bling, aside from the side repeaters

Cabin features soft-touch leather and some elegant design touches

Optional head-up display works well. The brightness, height and extent of information are configurable through the iDrive

Translucent information display gives a high-quality feel

There’s enough boot space for most people’s weekend needs

The front cabin offers lots of legroom and the seats afford a low-slung position

By class standards the rear is very roomy - more so than in previous versions

The 640i will reach 62mph in 5.7secs; the 650i clock this speed in 5secs dead

The V8 in the 650i emits a wonderful bassy woofle

Performance is excellent. The 650i allows simple and rapid overtaking

The 650i has an astonishingly flexible engine

At eight-tenths the Six is precise and controlled, with plenty of entertainment value still to give

The more money you spend, the longer it’ll take you to familiarise yourself with its active and adaptable chassis settings

Class-leading drivetrain and a lovely interior, but blunt handling