I pride myself on careful driving, a skill honed over years. Yet, there I was, navigating through traffic – a common Rhode Island maneuver – when a distinct, muffled thud reached my ears. The sound of the BMW 645Ci’s rear tire kissing the curb. Not the ideal soundtrack when you’re at the helm of what’s supposed to be a $70,000 “Ultimate Driving Machine.” It certainly doesn’t scream “ultimate driver.” But in my defense, it wasn’t entirely my fault; the car itself plays a role in this narrative.
The BMW 645Ci is undeniably eager. The moment you engage the accelerator, its 325 horsepower engine unleashes a surge of power that propels you towards the horizon with impressive force. While 325 horses might not sound excessive in today’s landscape of high-performance vehicles, in the 645Ci, it feels more than sufficient to occasionally catch you off guard. Thanks to sophisticated engineering including a stepless intake manifold and double VANOS variable valve timing, this luxurious coupe, weighing in at 3781lbs, achieves 0 to 60 mph in a mere 5.5 seconds. What’s more noticeable is its eagerness to unleash this power at every chance, often triggering the traction control light into a near-constant flicker.
bmw 645ci coupe side view
However, the driving experience isn’t without its drawbacks, particularly when it comes to steering feel. The BMW’s variable assistance steering system provides minimal tactile feedback, reminiscent of arcade racing games where ‘weight’ substitutes for genuine ‘feel’. The steering in the 645Ci is heavy and somewhat notchy when pointed straight, and alarmingly numb when cornering. For a car aspiring to be the “Ultimate Driving Machine,” the lack of precision and driver engagement in the steering is a significant letdown.
Adding to the disconnect is the 645Ci’s active suspension. While designed to keep the car level and composed in all conditions, this quick-thinking system ironically diminishes driver feedback. The chassis remains resolutely flat, which is commendable for comfort but detrimental to feeling connected to the road. Ideally, a touch more body roll would actually benefit spirited driving, providing crucial cues about the tires’ grip and the car’s limits.
Interestingly, engaging the ‘Sport’ mode seems to exacerbate these handling quirks. Pressing the ‘Sport’ button transforms the already spirited gearbox into an aggressively tuned, almost frantic system, and further stiffens the suspension, reducing body lean even more. Any semblance of mechanical harmony between driver and machine dissipates, often replaced by the screech of tires losing traction. The 645Ci’s handling, in essence, can be an invitation to misjudge corners and driving situations. While time behind the wheel does breed familiarity and a degree of adapted driving style – relying more on visual cues as feedback – it unfortunately doesn’t translate to enhanced driving pleasure. Fortunately, the aesthetic appeal of the 645Ci is a different story altogether.
When automotive design historians chronicle Chris Bangle’s tenure at BMW, the 645Ci will undoubtedly be celebrated as a high point. Unlike some of Bangle’s other designs – the controversial 7 Series, the somewhat awkward 5 Series, and the polarizing Z4 – the 645Ci managed to synthesize his design language into a cohesive and strikingly beautiful form. Elements that seemed jarring on other models work harmoniously on the 645Ci. From its distinctive “shark eye” headlights to the dramatically sculpted “flame surfaced” side panels and the much-discussed “bustle-back” rear, the 645Ci’s design exudes both speed and elegance, rivaling even Jaguar in its visual allure.
bmw 645ci coupe rear view
The interior of the 645Ci continues this impression of sophisticated luxury. The cabin, trimmed in brushed aluminum and supple leather, is as tastefully understated as a Manhattan penthouse. The steering wheel is a highlight – perfectly shaped, with ideal thickness and texture, equally suited for relaxed cruising and more spirited driving. Even the cupholder design could arguably find a place in a modern art museum. However, the much-maligned ‘simplified’ iDrive controller serves as a constant reminder that user-friendly ergonomics weren’t the primary focus. Navigating the system often leaves you reaching for the owner’s manual. Furthermore, the 645Ci’s sleek, sloping roofline renders the rear seats best suited for children, or perhaps adults with exceptional tolerance for confined spaces. Yet, these minor criticisms fade when you’re ensconced in what feels like one of the finest automotive sanctuaries available.
In summary, the BMW 645Ci is a beautifully crafted, premium coupe that prioritizes style and a sense of German luxury. It delivers impressive straight-line performance and a substantial feel-good factor. However, for driving purists seeking dynamic engagement and nuanced handling, it may fall short. BMW enthusiasts seeking a more performance-oriented 6 Series might be better served by waiting for the M6, which, at the time of this review’s original publication, was anticipated to address some of the 645Ci’s dynamic shortcomings. If making a statement with sophisticated style and enjoying potent acceleration are your priorities, the 645Ci is a compelling choice. Just be mindful of those curbs – enthusiasm, and perhaps the steering, can sometimes lead you astray.
