Classy BMW is premium Grand Tourer

Created Date: 19/04/2011

It’s March and BMW have just landed on the scene with a new 6 series variant to add to the range. The model in question is the 6 series coupe model, sporting various enhancements and tweaks to the previous years. This top range BMW 6 series has only recently been surpassed by a 7 series and both sit atop the BMW pedestal just below the M series. It’s no surprise then that the new coupe model continues this trend of power and executive class.

Aesthetically this is once again more of an evolution than revolution with the design sharing various similarities with last year’s model. However, the minor improvements add up to an all round more attractive looking car. The shape is still very reminiscent of last year’s 6 series, with the bonnet slowly arcing downwards to where that trademarked BMW front end grille sits. However, everything has been sprinkled with an extra dose of sleekness this year with the theme seeming to be less angled edges and more flowing curves. This model sits lower and rides lower than any 6 series before it and as a result looks mighty aggressive. The front lights have been given a slight makeover; they now slope inwards at either side of the car and have an LED strip running along the bottom for added class. This model has continental Grand Tourer written all over it and bears some resemblance to the Maserati models of similar class. It’s a definite departure from the 6 series of old but it also retains what was good about said 6 series of old.

The 640i and 650i are currently the only models available and represent the top of the class in terms of performance and features. In terms of engines you get a Turbocharged 3.0 litre straight six engine in the 640i and a twin-turbocharged 4.4 litre V8 in the 650i. The smaller 3.0 litre engine produces an impressive 315bhp and offers a 0-62mph time of 5.4 seconds, while the larger twin-turbocharged V8 produces 402bhp and will get you there in 4.9 seconds. Both engines are electronically limited to 155mph for safety and engine lifespan integrity - I can’t begin to imagine what top speed these things could produce with the limiter removed. As with any Grand Tourer the ability to ease past traffic when overtaking on the motorway is always a concern, so it’s no surprise then that in the higher revs both models are exceptional. The 650i for example has a remarkable 600nm of torque all the way from 1750rpm right up to 4500rpm and will ease past without so much as a complaint – thanks in part to its lightness. They’re also surprisingly economical as well, putting out 27.2mpg for the larger 650i engine and 36.7mpg for the smaller 640i variant.

On the inside you have four seats with polished leather finishes and a dashboard crafted from high grade plastics that thankfully keeps up the premium image by not feeling cheap and tacky. The rear seats are quite small and will probably only accommodate small adults or children but you have to applaud BMW for at least finding the time and space to put them in. On the plus side they’re not short of novelties, with all the seats being heated and electronically movable for a comfortable seating posture. BMW’s iDrive controller is back and offers one-touch functionality for the centre consoles entertainment unit and satellite navigation comes as standard.

All in all, this car offers a welcome package and is a great choice for a reasonably cheap, classy Grand Tourer. Adding on the optional extras will most likely break the bank but the base package is enough to satisfy most people happily. For the price of the standard car you’re probably looking at the best value for money Grand Tourer in its class if you go for the 640i. With both models housing suitably meaty engines they’re more than enough to handle overtaking on motorways without having to constantly shift gears. What’s more, it also carries that premium styling that we’ve come to expect from the German manufacturers and is aesthetically an improvement over last years. An all round package you can’t go wrong with to be sure.

For a range of BMW cars online, please click here.

Article written by Thomas Williams.

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