BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe (2015)

One model series, three different characters

The latest generation of the BMW 6-Series takes the dynamics, aesthetics, luxury and innovation offered by the model series to new heights. Moreover, the expansion of the range to span three body variants has ensured that driving pleasure in a luxury BMW can be experienced in an even wider variety of ways. The BMW 6-Series Convertible, BMW 6-Series Coupe and BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe provide customers with a choice of three distinctive characters, the introduction of the brand's first ever four-door Coupe giving the BMW 6-Series' popularity fresh momentum. Almost one in two newly registered BMW 6-Series cars is now a Gran Coupe. Worldwide, nigh-on 80,000 units of the current-generation BMW 6-Series have been sold in total since the market launch of the Convertible in March 2011.

The new BMW 6-Series Convertible is all about exclusive open-top driving enjoyment, comprising majestic ride comfort and richly engaging performance attributes in equal measure. A major element of the four-seater's extrovert charisma is the transition between the body and the interior, which has been designed to evoke the character of a boat deck - as is typical of BMW Convertibles - when the roof is down. The sophisticated fabric soft-top of the 6-Series Convertible stands out with its unique "fin" architecture, complete with a glass rear window that opens separately, and offers unrestricted all-season usability and unrivalled acoustic comfort.

The new BMW 6-Series Coupe embodies the classical character of an exclusive sports car. Its two-door body exudes an athletic and elegant aesthetic while its modern interior ambience is designed to immerse four people in a dynamic driving experience. The latest round of design and powertrain upgrades lends extra potency to the two-door model's muscular appearance and sporting potential.

The BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe conjures up a new balance of dynamic excellence, elegance and luxury. The latest addition to the BMW 6-Series range blends the sports performance and aesthetics of a coupe with the extended functionality of a four-door car. Its distinctive proportions and longer wheelbase accentuate the exterior's irresistible radiance. The interior of the BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe delivers luxurious long-distance comfort for the driver and passengers in four full-size seats and offers a third seat in the rear that is suitable for shorter journeys. Detail refinements showcase both the elegance of the body design and the exclusive ambience of the interior.

The design: A harmony of sporting presence and exclusive elegance

The balance between sporting dynamics and majestic ride comfort which defines the character of the BMW 6-Series is reflected in a body design exuding athleticism, power and elegance. Hallmark BMW proportions, precise lines and fluently moulded surfaces come together in an unmistakable design language that serves as a signature feature of the BMW 6-Series as a whole and is adapted to suit the Convertible, Coupe and Gran Coupe respectively.

An array of awards based on both public surveys and the assessments of expert judges bear testament to the appeal of the design developed for the BMW 6-Series model range. The BMW 6-Series Convertible, BMW 6-Series Coupe and BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe all won the renowned red dot award for outstanding product design at the first time of asking. The two-door models have also been recognised with the international Good Design Award and the iF product design award presented by the International Forum Design, while the BMW 6-Series Convertible has claimed the German Design Award. Meanwhile, in the Automotive Brand Contest - an international brand and design competition initiated by the German Design Council - the BMW 6-Series Coupe and BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe topped the exterior design category two years in succession. In readers' polls conducted by German motoring magazine auto, motor und sport, the BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe first claimed the "Autonis" award for the "Best new design of the year" and subsequently won the luxury category in the vote for "Best car of the year".

More powerful, sportier, sharper: BMW kidney grille and front apron

All the models in the new BMW 6-Series line-up stand out with an adeptly modified design that exudes powerful sports performance and, at the same time, emphasises the exclusive elegance of these luxury cars. The BMW kidney grille - standing prominently in the centre of the front end, as ever - is now even more eye-catching. The number of bars in the kidney grille has been reduced from 10 to nine, and the larger openings are an indication of the amount of cooling air required by the powerful engines. The new contours of the kidney grille bars (in aluminium matt on the eight-cylinder variants and black on the remaining models) underline the forward-surging stance of the radiator grille element. The new front apron, whose lower air intake is now a single stylistic unit and therefore comes across as ultra-wide, radiates sports performance and solidity. The front foglamps, which are positioned at the far outer edges of the front end, consist of three adjacent LED units and now feature a decorative surround. This trim element is chrome on the new BMW 6-Series Convertible and comes in high-gloss black for the new BMW 6-Series Coupe and new BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe.

The full-LED headlights fitted as standard on all the models in the new BMW 6-Series line-up include a newly developed and extremely sophisticated design for the light sources. This has brought about a new interpretation of the signature BMW look created by the twin circular headlights. The low beam light is emitted from the two upper reflectors, the main beam light from the two lower reflectors. The indicators are now integrated into the accent strip cutting across the top of the headlight units.

Side view: aerodynamically optimised exterior mirrors, newly designed model badge for the BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe

Like the modified design of the front apron, newly styled exterior mirrors also contribute to the optimised aerodynamics of the models in the new BMW 6-Series, while the side indicators are now integrated into the exterior mirrors in the form of slim horizontal light strips.

The standalone proportions of the BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe and the exclusive elegance of its lines are emphasised even more clearly by a new design for the side window surrounds at the trailing edge of the rear doors. There, a graphic element bearing "Gran Coupe" lettering guides the eye to the "counter-swing" at the foot of the C-pillar (known as the Hofmeister kink). On the new BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe this element is made from black painted aluminium and bears raised, embossed lettering.

Rear apron strongly emphasises the cars' width

On all models in the BMW 6-Series, flared wheel arches and a rear-end structure visually stretched by horizontal lines provide a vivid stylistic showcase for the cars' wide track and resultant surefooted handling. This effect is further enhanced by a chrome strip in the bumper trim. The rear apron of the six-cylinder models also features larger surrounds for the exhaust system's tailpipe embellishers, whose diameter has been increased from 80 to 90 millimetres.

Elsewhere, a newly designed 20-inch multi-spoke variant has been added to the selection of optional light-alloy wheels. And the range of exterior paintwork finishes includes the new colour shades Jatoba metallic, Cashmere Silver metallic, Glacier Silver metallic, Mediterranean Blue metallic and Melbourne Red metallic.

Luxurious interior ambience, newly designed surfaces, optional bicolour leather trim

The signature interior design for the new BMW 6-Series Convertible, new BMW 6-Series Coupe and new BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe is dominated by the driver-focused cockpit, a front passenger area enveloped by elegantly sweeping surfaces and a seamless connection between the front seats and rear compartment - all of which makes it a recipe for exclusive comfort in a stylishly luxurious ambience.

In the new BMW 6-Series models, the high-gloss black surfaces of the centre console around the control units for the audio system and air conditioning form a harmonious and elegant unit with the black-panel displays of the standard-fitted automatic climate control. The slim, precise chrome surround of the iDrive operating system's freestanding Control Display and the frameless design of its glass cover create a particularly contemporary and sophisticated feel. And the use of LED units for the illumination of the footwells, door exits and glove compartment provides an extremely even distribution of light.

As an alternative to the standard Dakota leather trim, customers can specify Exclusive Nappa leather with extended features, which is now also available for the new BMW 6-Series models in the bi-colour variants Ivory White/Black and Cognac/Black. Fineline Brown fine-wood trim has been added to the selection of optional interior trim strips.

Equipment, Design Pure Experience, Design Pure Excellence, M Sport package and BMW Individual: Bespoke luxury, aesthetics and driving pleasure

The new BMW 6-Series generates an intense form of driving pleasure regardless of the body variant specified and the engine fitted. It also boasts a beguilingly exclusive edge thanks to its luxurious interior ambience, extensive spread of standard equipment and high-quality options. As well as the eightspeed Steptronic sport transmission and LED headlights, all models are fitted as standard with the ConnectedDrive navigation package, Dakota leather trim, heated and electrically adjustable seats for the driver and front passenger (including memory function), two-zone automatic climate control with extended features, an electrically adjustable sports leather steering wheel with multifunction buttons, cruise control with braking function, electrically adjustable and heated exterior mirrors, the Professional radio, a hi-fi loudspeaker system and a hands-free facility with USB audio interface.

The standard lightweight integral seats for the driver and front passenger come with an integrated belt system, whose optimised retraction mechanism uses electric assistance to enhance comfort. Customers can order their car with sports or comfort seats as an option for the driver and front passenger. The comfort seats are also available with the "active" function and active seat ventilation. Exclusive Nappa leather with extended features can be specified as an alternative to standard leather trim. Both the leather variants earmarked for the new BMW 6-Series Convertible are treated with SunReflective technology, which reduces the degree to which the surfaces are heated by the sun's rays. The BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe can also be ordered with heated rear seats.

Premiere for Design Pure Experience and Design Pure Excellence. Two equipment lines pave the way for targeted personalisation in the configuration of the new BMW 6-Series models. The Design Pure Experience line highlights the car's sporting aura through the specification of a BMW kidney grille with high-gloss black bars, BMW Individual High-gloss Shadow Line trim, likewise high-gloss black tailpipe embellishers for the exhaust system and 19-inch bi-colour light-alloy wheels in exclusive starspoke design. The interior sees Nappa leather trim in the new bi-colour variant Cognac/Black sharing the limelight with interior trim strips in Fineline Brown fine wood.

The Design Pure Excellence option accentuates the exclusive appearance of the new BMW 6-Series model range with the addition of 19-inch light-alloy wheels and luxurious interior appointments. These include the newly designed Nappa leather trim in Ivory White/Black, a leather-covered instrument panel with contrast stitching, ceramic applications for the controls and interior trim strips in Poplar Grain Grey fine wood. In addition, both equipment lines include metallic paintwork and optional ambient lightning complete with illuminated door sill finishers.

Supreme dynamics and exclusivity: M Sport package and BMW Individual features

An M Sport package can be specified for the new BMW 6-Series Convertible, the new BMW 6-Series Coupe and the new BMW Series Gran Coupe to further optimise their dynamic aura and performance attributes. The Sport package - configured to suit the individual model - includes features such as an M aerodynamic package (with specific body components for the front end, side skirts and rear apron), BMW Individual High-gloss Shadow Line trim, tailpipe embellishers in dark chrome, black painted brake callipers and 19-inch light-alloy wheels in M double-spoke design. 20-inch light-alloy wheels in M double-spoke design are also available. M Carbon Black metallic paintwork can be specified exclusively in conjunction with the M Sport package. Meanwhile, additions including sports seats in M-specific Alcantara/Nappa leather trim with blue contrast stitching, an M leather steering wheel with multifunction buttons and gearshift paddles, Aluminium Hexagon interior trim strips, door sill finishers with an M logo and an M driver's footrest ensure the design of the interior fulfils the brief of concentrated driving pleasure. A BMW Individual roof liner in Anthracite is also part of the M Sport package for the new BMW 6-Series Coupe and new BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe.

The BMW Individual options offered for the new BMW 6-Series models satisfy the desire of customers to maximise exclusivity and infuse the exterior and interior of the car with their personal style. The BMW Individual paintwork finishes, special paintwork finishes and matt paintwork finishes stand out with their exceptional richness and fascinating colour effects. The Frozen Brilliant White matt shade - a new addition to the BMW Individual range - gives the body surfaces the appearance of being covered in an even layer of ice and, in so doing, showcases the muscular contours of the new BMW 6-Series models to particularly enthralling effect. The 20-inch, forged BMW Individual light-alloy wheels in V-spoke design also play their part in achieving a striking appearance.

BMW Individual fine-grain Merino full-leather trim, with carefully selected and meticulously prepared raw materials taking centre stage, helps create an exclusive interior design. The leather used for the seats, door panel trim, centre console, armrests and door pulls has a natural open-pored structure; the soft and breathable surfaces are elegant to the eye and offer excellent comfort. Exquisite materials and meticulous handcraftsmanship are defining features of the interior appointments from BMW Individual. The range also includes a BMW Individual roof liner in Alcantara for the BMW 6-Series Coupe and BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe, illuminated door sill finishers with BMW Individual lettering, BMW Individual interior trim strips and a BMW Individual wood inlay for the leather steering wheel. More unusual requests from customers can also be met, extending all the way to one-off creations conjured entirely in the BMW Individual Manufactory.

Options for bespoke driving pleasure and comfort

Customers can also dip into the list of high-quality optional extras to further enhance levels of driving pleasure and comfort in the new BMW 6-Series models. These include Comfort Access and the Soft Close Automatic function for the doors, a glass tilting sunroof for the new BMW 6-Series Coupe and the new BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe, and a draught-stop for the BMW 6-Series Convertible which reduces turbulence when driving with the roof down. A four-zone automatic climate control system is available for the BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe, while electrically operated sunblinds can be ordered for the rear window of the new BMW 6-Series Coupe and new BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe, and for the rear side windows of the four-door model.

The iDrive operating system's Touch Controller has a touch-sensitive surface for inputting characters. Customers can bring further variety to the range of incar entertainment, not to mention maximise their listening pleasure, by specifying options such as a TV function, a Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB) receiver, the Harman Kardon HiFi system and the Bang & Olufsen high-end surround-sound system.

The driving experience: Feel the dynamics, savour the poise and assurance

Supreme power development, impressive refinement and exemplary efficiency are attributes shared by all the engines available for the new BMW 6-Series Convertible, new BMW 6-Series Coupe and new BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe. The range consists of a petrol V8 producing 330 kW/450 hp, a 235 kW/320 hp six-cylinder in-line petrol unit and a straight-six diesel with 230 kW/313 hp. All enjoy the benefits of the BMW TwinPower Turbo technology developed under the BMW EfficientDynamics banner, all meet the EU6 exhaust emissions standard and all link up as standard with an eight-speed Steptronic sport transmission.

As an alternative to sending their engine power to the rear wheels - as is customary for BMW cars - all new BMW 6-Series model variants can also be specified with the BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system. The variable distribution of drive between the front and rear wheels not only optimises traction and directional stability in all weather and road conditions, it also noticeably enhances cornering dynamics and acceleration. BMW xDrive further improves the 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) performance of all the 6-Series models. The best figures here are recorded by the eight-cylinder BMW 650i xDrive Coupe and BMW 650i xDrive Gran Coupe, which both complete the sprint in 4.4 seconds.

Standard-fitted sports exhaust system for an emotion-rich sound

The engines powering the new BMW 6-Series models are designed to deliver captivating performance, as a new addition to the range of standard equipment is not afraid to emphasise. The BMW 640i Convertible, BMW 640i Coupe and BMW 640i Gran Coupe are now equipped with a sports exhaust system, which provides an emotionally dramatic soundtrack to their engines' instantaneous and sustained wave of power.

The system features a switchable exhaust valve, whose position can be adjusted using the Driving Experience Control switch. In SPORT and SPORT+ modes, the valve opens to reduce exhaust backpressure and generates a dramatic aural response. The engine management system allows further acoustic optimisations, including dynamic load-reversal damping.

Superior sports performance, optimised efficiency

BMW TwinPower Turbo technology helps the engines to develop their power instantaneously, gives them a vivacious appetite for revs and imbues them with impressive efficiency. The extensive array of BMW EfficientDynamics technology fitted as standard and the cars' optimised aerodynamic properties also contribute to a further reduction in fuel consumption and emissions. For example, the BMW 640i Convertible, BMW 640i Coupe and BMW 640i Gran Coupe - all powered by a six-cylinder in-line petrol engine - each burn 0.2 litres less fuel per 100 kilometres than their direct predecessors. The diesel models achieve a similar reduction in their fuel consumption and emissions. With average economy of 5.5 - 5.2 litres per 100 kilometres (54.3 - 51.4 mpg imp) and CO2 emissions of 147 - 139 grams per kilometre (figures as per the EU test cycle, depending on the tyre format), the new BMW 640d Coupe sets the efficiency benchmark.

The eight-speed Steptronic sport transmission also plays a role in the powertrain's outstanding effectiveness thanks to its excellent internal efficiency, while its impressive fast-shifting ability sharpens the sporting characteristics of the new BMW 6-Series models. As well as gearshift paddles on the steering wheel, the eight-speed Steptronic sport transmission also comes with a Launch Control function, which enables the driver to power away from the line with maximum dynamic force.

Cutting-edge suspension systems enhance dynamics and comfort

State-of-the-art suspension technology honed even more precisely to each individual model strikes a fine balance between dynamic potency and comfort. And customers can specify sophisticated options to complement this technology: Dynamic Damper Control adapts its responses electronically to the situation at hand, and the Adaptive Drive system - which includes active roll stabilisation - further enhances the driving qualities of the new BMW 6-Series models.

In addition to controlling the amount of speed-dependent steering assistance generated and regulating the steering angle of the front wheels, Integral Active Steering also adjusts the steering angle of the rear wheels. This helps to reduce the amount of steering effort required, provides excellent agility in dynamic driving situations, ensures comfortable and assured responses when changing lanes and navigating through corners, and reduces the car's turning circle.

BMW ConnectedDrive in the new BMW 6-Series model range: Intelligent connectivity for the ultimate in driving pleasure

The progressive nature of the BMW 6-Series is also reflected in its diverse range of standard and optional driver assistance systems and mobility services from BMW ConnectedDrive, which are aimed at optimising convenience, safety and the use of infotainment functions. When it comes to the intelligent link-up of the driver, car and outside world, the new BMW 6-Series Convertible, the new BMW 6-Series Coupe and the new BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe play a stand-out role in their respective market segments.

All new BMW 6-Series models come as standard with the ConnectedDrive navigation package, a hands-free facility with USB interface and a SIM card embedded in the car. The SIM card enables use of the likewise standard Intelligent Emergency Call system and BMW TeleServices, as well as data transfer for other functions, such as ConnectedDrive Services and Real Time Traffic Information for the navigation system.

Important information exactly where you want it: BMW Head-Up Display

One of the highlights of the range of BMW ConnectedDrive driving assistance systems is the BMW Head-Up Display, which projects relevant driving information onto the windscreen using a full spectrum of colour. As well as vehicle speed, 3D graphics also show Check Control messages, navigation information - including lane recommendations, speed limits and overtaking restrictions - and further information supplied by the driver assistance systems in the driver's direct field of view. When required, telephone contact lists and entertainment information can also be displayed.

The multifunction instrument display also contributes to the full-blooded driving pleasure laid on by the new BMW 6-Series. This variant of the cockpit display takes its cues from the mode selected using the Driving Experience Control switch, the graphics and colours of the displays indicating clearly which of the COMFORT, ECO PRO and SPORT settings has been engaged.

Speed Limit Info including No Passing Info display and the Lane Departure Warning system (both options) are also designed to promote assured driving. Meanwhile, the Park Distance Control, rear view camera and Surround View options help to provide a better overview of the area around the car and the road ahead. The BMW Parking Assistant (also optional) helps the driver to identify and drive into parallel parking spaces. Driving enjoyment and safety in darkness are enhanced by the Adaptive LED Headlights with BMW Selective Beam (for optimised high beam use) and the BMW Night Vision system with pedestrian and animal recognition.

Driving Assistant Plus uses intelligent connectivity to optimise safety

Among the other innovative technologies on the options list is the Driving Assistant Plus safety package. This camera and radar-based driver assistance system includes the Active Cruise Control system with Stop & Go function, the Lane Departure Warning system and a Pedestrian and Collision Warning system with Braking function. This system detects standing vehicles and vehicles travelling ahead and, at speeds up to 60 km/h (37 mph), also pedestrians who are on a potential collision course with the car. Visual and audible warnings are given if a hazardous situation is detected, and at the same time the brake system is primed in order to reduce the stopping distance. If the driver fails to react to the warning, Driving Assistant Plus automatically brakes the car, if necessary applying maximum deceleration.

ConnectedDrive Services for greater convenience and mobile office functions

An embedded SIM card in the BMW 6-Series models opens up new scope for mobile communications and the use of online services inside the car. Included as standard, ConnectedDrive Services take the levels of convenience and variety offered in the areas of onboard office applications, navigation capability and in-car information to unrivalled heights - thanks to innovative services such as the remote functions and the BMW Online portal. One feature unmatched by the new BMW 6-Series' rivals is the Concierge Service from BMW ConnectedDrive. This option offers the driver a personal information service which - using a mobile phone connection - can be contacted via the iDrive menu around the clock, at the touch of a button and at no additional cost. The staff at the call centre can take care of hotel reservations, for example, look up flight information, seek out addresses of out-of-hours pharmacies or ATM machines and provide information on points of interest. Telephone numbers and addresses for the navigation system can be sent directly from the call centre to the car and then transferred by the driver at the touch of a button into their navigation system.

Many other BMW ConnectedDrive services can be installed at any time using apps, via a smartphone or the embedded SIM card. Among other things, these apps support web radio functions, social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter, and the BMW ConnectedDrive range of online entertainment features, which offer access to more than 24 million music tracks and thousands of audio books. This flexible apps concept makes it possible to incorporate not just applications developed by the BMW Group but also "BMW Apps ready" applications from other providers.