2012 BMW 6 Series: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2012 BMW 6 Series is a complete redesign. This first year of the third generation brings new coupe and convertible bodies, turbocharged engines, a more upscale cabin, and updated technology.
About the 2012 BMW 6 Series
3rd gen (F12 Convertible / F13 Coupe), first U.S. model year of this redesign.
The 6 Series is BMW’s two-door grand tourer: a stylish four-seat coupe or convertible built for effortless speed, long-distance comfort, and a driver-focused cabin rather than track-focused sharpness. BMW markets it as an exclusive, high-end car that blends strong performance with upscale materials, useful luggage space for the class, and modern driver-assistance and infotainment features. Against rivals, it leans hard into the brand’s mix of athletic road manners and luxury-car comfort.
The 2012 6 Series is a luxury grand tourer focused on strong performance and long-distance comfort rather than track driving. The 640i uses a 315-hp turbocharged six-cylinder engine, while the 650i and 650i xDrive step up to a 400-hp twin-turbo V8, Nappa leather, and multi-contour front seats. Navigation, Bluetooth, an adaptive suspension, a rearview camera, and parking sensors are notable features.
What changed, by category
2012 BMW 6 Series specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 6-Cyl, Turbo, 3.0 Liter | V8, Twin Turbo, 4.4 Liter | V8, Twin Turbo, 4.4 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto, 8-Spd Manual Spt | Auto, 8-Spd Manual Spt | Auto, 8-Spd Manual Spt |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 20–23 mpg | 15 mpg | 15 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 30–33 mpg | 23 mpg | 20 mpg |
| Horsepower | 315 hp | 400 hp | 400 hp |
| Torque | 330 lb-ft | 450 lb-ft | 450 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 11–13 cu-ft | 11–13 cu-ft | 11–13 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 30.5 in | 30.5 in | 30.5 in |
| Seats | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Doors | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | |||
| Alarm System | |||
| Automatic High Beams | |||
| Hill Descent Control | |||
| Lane Departure Warning | |||
| Park Assist | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| LED Headlights | |||
| Power Moonroof | |||
| Bluetooth | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| Smartphone Interface | |||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Heated Steering Wheel | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Memory Front Seats | |||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |||
| Push-Button Engine Start | |||
| Ventilated Front Seats | |||
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2012 BMW 6 Series a redesigned model?
Yes. The 2012 BMW 6 Series is the first U.S. model year of the third generation, with redesigned coupe and convertible bodies, a stiffer structure, a richer cabin, turbocharged engines, and updated technology.
What is the difference between the 2012 BMW 640i and 650i?
The main difference is the engine and interior equipment. The 640i has a 315-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine, while the 650i has a 400-hp twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 plus Nappa leather and multi-contour front seats.
Does the 2012 BMW 6 Series have all-wheel drive?
Yes. The 2012 650i xDrive pairs all-wheel drive with the 400-hp twin-turbo V8 and an eight-speed automatic. The regular 640i and 650i are rear-wheel drive.
Was the 2012 BMW 6 Series sold as both a coupe and a convertible?
Yes. BMW redesigned both the 6 Series Coupe and Convertible for 2012 as part of the new third-generation lineup.
Does the 2012 BMW 6 Series have a manual transmission?
Yes, but only the rear-wheel-drive 650i has the six-speed manual option. An eight-speed automatic is standard, and the 650i xDrive uses the automatic.