2013 BMW Gran Coupe

Exterior & Interior

BMW Gran Coupe Concept

When designing this car, BMW did not just graft a new body onto a 6 series frame and call it a day. Instead, they rummaged around the bin and combined parts from several models to create the best possible vehicle. According to Motor Trend, this vehicle uses the same wheelbase from the 5-Series which is 4.4 inches longer than the 6-Series (116.8 vs 112.4). This wheelbase is also mated to a frame which is wider than the standard 5-Series (74.9in vs 73.2in). In addition, it is 2 inches longer (197.1 in) than its Mercedes competitor.

Looking at these dimensions you may grimace at the thought of a BMW shed on wheels. Have no fear, to maintain a sleek coupe-ish shape the roof line has been lowered by 3.5 inches (compared to the standard 5-Series). In addition, to maintain the coupe shape, BMW has fitted it with frame-less windows. This latest model from BMW has a very sleek shape and is more appealing than its little brother at BMW, the 5-Series Gran Turismo. The Gran Coupe has the look of a businessman as opposed to the 5-Series GT that looks like a child with a bulging backpack.

The briefcase for this vehicular businessman will most likely be comfortably spartan. BMW seems to keep its interiors somewhat serious but comfortable, like your bosses office. Judging on the the interior of the 2012 6-Series coupe, this will have the standard I-drive control center as well as multi-function stereo. The greatest thing about this car is that it will offer the comfort and convenience of a 5-Series sedan with the style and comfort of the 6-Series.

Performance

BMW Gran Coupe Concept

Although this car is bigger than a standard 6-Series (which weighs 4233 lbs), BMW has been busy incorporating aluminum and thermoplastics into the body to keep the girth away. We think overall weight may go up to 4400 pounds, which all said is not bad for a full size 4 door coupe. This latest model will be propelled by a choice of a few power plants, including a turbocharged Inline-6 which develops 300 hp and 300 lbs/ft at 1400 rpm or a twin turbo V8 that puts out 400 hp and 450 lbs/ft at 1750 rpm. Motor Trend has also pointed out that these engines will be mated to BMW’s 8 speed automatic. In addition to these ferocious power plants, BMW will most likely offer the 6 Gran Coupe with driver aids such as All Wheel Drive and Dynamic Drive anti-roll system.

Pricing

We are expecting this 6 series 4 door coupe to start at around $75,000 which will put it at $8,000 less than the base 650i coupe. This price will also make it the most expensive of the 4 door coupes (the Mercedes starts at $71,300 and the Audi at $59,250.)

Conclusion

BMW Gran Coupe Concept

This latest offering from BMW has everyone drooling like a kid in a toy store. The prospect of a great looking "coupe" that actually has room for the family is tempting. In addition BMW has managed to field a contender that looks fantastic. Even though the BMW is fielding the most expensive contender, people will flock to the BMW because it is the best looking 4 door coupe. What is increasing the drool factor is the prospect of this car with BMW’s robust racehorse V8. We eagerly await to drive this new direction from BMW and see if it lives up to the Ultimate Driving Machine Standard. If it was up to us, the 6 series Gran Coupe would be allowed a spot in the most exclusive club, our garage.