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:

    Operating from the inside
    Via the button for the central locking system. If the vehicle has been locked from inside, the fuel filler flap remains unlocked. If an accident of a certain severity occurs, the central loc ...

    System limits
    Personal responsibility The system cannot serve as a substitute for the driver's personal judgment of the course of the road and the traffic situation. In the event of a warning, do not jerk th ...

    Switching the interior lamps on and off
    Press the button. To switch off permanently: press the button for approx. 3 seconds. Switch back on: press button. ...