BMW has unveiled the 6-series Gran Coupé. This new four-door coupe will rival the Audi A7 and Mercedes-Benz CLS. The 6-series Gran Coupe joins the existing two-door coupé and convertible in an expanded range of 6-series models aiming to attract buyers who place greater emphasis on outright style than practicality.Stylistically, the Gran Coupé is identical to the 6-series coupé and convertible from its forward-leaning kidney grille through to the upper trailing edge of its windscreen. However, it adopts a longer and flatter roof structure, substantial B-pillars and two conventionally front-hinged rear doors. To help provide the Gran Coupé with an added touch of coupé-like style, all four doors are frameless. With a length of 5007mm, width of 1894mm and height of 1392mm, the 6-series Gran Coupé is 112mm longer than the 6-series coupé and convertible. Despite its stylistic links to the two-door 6-series, the Gran Coupé rides on an altered platform with a 113mm longer wheelbase (2968mm) – the same as the 5-series saloon’s.
The Gran Coupé will initially be available in global markets with three engine options, all mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The entry-level 640i Gran Coupé runs a turbocharged 3.0-litre straight six with 316bhp. The 650i receives a turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 packing 444bhp. Also available in select markets will be the 640d Gran Coupé, with a twin-turbo 3.0-litre diesel that produces 309bhp. A range-topping M6 Gran Coupé will follow late next year, powered by the same 552bhp twin-turbo 4.4-litre V8 used in the M5. Some markets will also get the option of all-wheel drive.
Inside, BMW has used the 6-series Gran Coupé’s additional length and height to provide adequate seating for four adults. The rear bench offers up a third three-point belt to allow for up to five occupants – a layout that BMW describes as four plus one. The seats, both front and rear, are mounted slightly higher than in the 6-series coupé and convertible for improved visibility. Boot space is put at 460 litres – 60 less than the 5-series saloon.
The Gran Coupé will be launched at the Geneva motor show in March next year
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