Dear 001,
I had a chance to test drive the new 6-series BMW last weekend in Zürich, Switzerland, and I wanted to share my impressions as well as some "real life" pictures with you.
The 645ci was loaded with every possible option, including the automatic transmission and active steering. It handled extremely well for its size and weight and the engine in combination with the automatic transmission seemed to be the perfect fit.
Compared it to my 02 M3 with SMG, the 645ci felt surprisingly fast.
The active steering option definitely takes time to get used to and I didn't get comfortable during the one hour test drive. However, I was assured by several "active steering equipped 5-series owners" that once you drive it for a couple of days, it feels genius. Owning several cars myself, I wonder what it would feel like constantly switching from an active to an non-active steered car.
The 645ci looks better in person than on pictures. The light gray-greenish color probably supported the side perspective, which from certain angels reminded me a bit of the new Aston Martin DB9. However, if you didn't like the 7-series rear design, you most likely will HATE this one.
Swiss Mr.