Under the Hood

The 640i is powered by a 315-horsepower, turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine. Its peak torque rating is 332 pounds-feet. BMW cites a zero to 60 mph time of 5.5 seconds for both the coupe and convertible. The standard eight-speed automatic transmission includes steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles.

Other standard features include computer-controlled adaptive shock absorbers and Driving Dynamics Control, which allows the driver to adjust the ride quality, accelerator response, power-steering assist level and automatic transmission behavior.

Optional mechanical upgrades include active stabilizer bars and active steering, the latter of which adds rear-wheel steering to the earlier generation's variable-ratio front steering system.

    See also:

    The concept
    When the low beams are switched on, this system automatically switches the high beams on and off. The procedure is controlled by a sensor on the front of the interior rearview mirror. The assi ...

    Initiating an Emergency Request
    1. Press the cover briefly to open it. 2. Press the SOS button until the LED in the button lights up. ▷ The LED lights up: an Emergency Request was initiated. If the situation allows, w ...

    Engine oil temperature
    ▷ Cold engine: the pointer is at the low temperature end. Drive at moderate engine and vehicle speeds. ▷ Normal operating temperature: the pointer is in the middle or in the left ...