BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe (2012 – 2018) Review

BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe (2012 – 2018) At A Glance

4/5

+Four-door version of the 6 Series is an alternative to the Audi A7 Sportback. Available with the excellent 640d engine.

-Prices start at more than £60k.

Insurance Groups are between 47–50
On average it achieves 77% of the official MPG figure

On looks alone the 6 Series Gran Coupe has been worth the wait. The three premium German car makers seem locked in a battle to invent new niches and when one of them finds success the others quickly wheel out a rival. It's a tad surprising then that BMW has taken this long to launch what appears to be a competitor to the stylish Mercedes-Benz CLS and Audi A7 Sportback.

On paper, the Gran Coupé is just a 6 Series Coupe with 113mm extra metal in the wheelbase to accommodate rear doors. However, it proves to be a highly successful transformation, marrying the aggressive detailing of the two-door model's lights and front grille with an elegant side profile and squat rear view.

There are plenty of detail changes though, including a full-width high level brake light positioned at the top of the rear window, chrome finishing around the front air intakes and discreet 'Gran Coupé' badging behind the glass towards the back of those new rear doors.

Unsurprisingly, the quality, tactile interiors of other 6 Series variants are carried over - and rear occupants are not treated like second-class passengers. The attention to detail, fit and finish are exemplary. Is it as spacious in the back as a 5 Series? No, but there's far more room than in the rear of the two-door variant and it's on a par with the Mercedes-Benz CLS in that regard.

All versions are generously equipped with leather, sat nav, parking sensors, dual-zone climate control, keyless start and electrically adjusted and heated seats. SE and M Sport specifications will be offered, the latter adding more aggressive body styling, larger alloys and a sportier interior for a premium of just under £5000.

BMW Gran Coupe 2012 Road Test

BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe (2012 – 2018) handling and engines

While the turbocharged straight-six petrol engine of the 640i does a fine job, the 640d is a far more appealing car. Its six-cylinder diesel engine is fed air by two turbochargers, resulting in peak power of 313PS. That figure isn't as important as the maximum torque output, which is rated at 630Nm, produced from just 1500rpm. This endows the car with effortless performance regardless of the speed. If it is extended it sounds just as sporting as any petrol car.

The diesel model eclipses the entry-level version for outright speed, yet it's also significantly more efficient - it averages 50.4mpg with CO2 of 148g/km according to the official figures.

This achievement was made possible partially by inclusion of stop-start, but also by the standard fitment of the latest generation eight-speed automatic gearbox. In default guise it's smooth and relaxing, keeping the engine at low revs, though it allows for more hurried driving with various modes to choose from.

If tied into the optional Adaptive Drive system this is managed centrally, along with the throttle sensitivity, damping and level of traction control. It's an option worth having, as it allows limousine levels of bump absorption in Comfort+ mode, while permitting the driver to engage with the car more in Sport and Sport+. It does a good impression of a sports car in these settings.

Irrespective of the mode, the Gran Coupe feels very different to a 5 Series saloon on the road, mainly due to the low seating position and wide stance. Yet it's a more resolved car than the two-door 6 Series Coupé, which is likely to be due to the extra stability afforded by the longer wheelbase.

Vitally, the Gran Coupe feels special. That's just as well, as it's more expensive than the equivalent cars from BMW's main adversaries. However, the four-door is less than £2000 more than the 6 Series Coupé, which could make that car all but redundant.

Engine MPG 0-62 CO2
640d 50–50 mpg 5.4 s 148–149 g/km
640d Automatic 50–51 mpg 5.4 s 148–152 g/km
640i 36 mpg 5.4 s 181–183 g/km
640i Automatic 36–38 mpg 5.4 s 181 g/km
650i 32 mpg 4.6 s 206 g/km
650i Automatic 32 mpg 4.6 s 206 g/km

Real MPG average for the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe (2012 – 2018)

RealMPG

Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.

Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.

Average performance

77%

Real MPG

30–46 mpg

MPGs submitted

91

BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe (2012 – 2018) models and specs

Dimensions
Length 5007 mm
Width 1894–2090 mm
Height 1392 mm
Wheelbase 2968 mm
Miscellaneous
Kerb Weight 1825–1940 kg
Boot Space 460–1265 L
Warranty 3 years / Unlimited miles
Servicing 18000 miles
Spare Wheel
Standard Run-flat tyres
Costs
List Price £62,375–£85,975
Insurance Groups 47–50
Road Tax Bands F–K
Official MPG 31.7–50.4 mpg
Euro NCAP Safety Ratings
Adult -
Child -
Pedestrian -
Overall -

On sale until July 2019

Coupe
Version List Price MPG 0-62
640d 3.0 M Sport Auto 4dr £69,345 49.6 mpg 5.4 s
640d 3.0 M Sport Limited Edition Auto 4dr £85,975 49.6 mpg 5.4 s
640d 3.0 SE Auto 4dr £65,430 51.3 mpg 5.4 s
640i 3.0 M Sport Auto 4dr £66,065 36.2 mpg 5.4 s
640i 3.0 SE Auto 4dr £62,465 37.7 mpg 5.4 s
650i 4.4 M Sport Auto 4dr £75,865 32.1 mpg 4.6 s
650i 4.4 SE Auto 4dr £71,665 32.1 mpg 4.6 s
650i 4.4 Sport Auto 4dr £73,265 32.1 mpg 4.6 s

On sale until August 2015

Coupe
Version List Price MPG 0-62
640d M Sport 313 4dr Auto £69,540 49.6 mpg 5.4 s
640d SE 313 4dr Auto £64,875 50.4 mpg 5.4 s
640i M Sport 320 4dr Auto £67,040 36.2 mpg 5.4 s
640i SE 320 4dr Auto £62,375 36.2 mpg 5.4 s
650i M Sport 450 4dr Auto £76,150 32.1 mpg 4.6 s

On sale until February 2014

Coupe
Version List Price MPG 0-62
650i SE 4dr Auto £71,635 32.1 mpg 4.6 s

Model History

February 2012

Premiere of new 6 Series Gran Coupe

The design and innovative equipment features of the first 4-door Coupe by BMW is a symbol of exclusive driving pleasure in the luxury class.

5,007mm long x 1,894mm wide x 1,392mm high. 2,968mm wheelbase.

The hallmark proportions for a Coupe of the BMW brand and the BMW 6 Series shaping form the basis for its aesthetic appearance, defined by dynamic, elegant style. The interior of the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe offers driver orientation as is typical of the brand, along with a high level of travel comfort in a stylish, luxurious interior.

The BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe is a 4-seater that offers generous travel comfort at the rear, too. A third seat is available as standard which can be used for shorter journeys, making it a '4+1'. Thanks to folding backrests, the 460-litre luggage compartment can be extended to a volume of 1,265 litres.

The BMW 650i Gran Coupe is powered by a new V8 engine with 330 kW/450 bhp whose BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology now also includes the fully variable valve control system VALVETRONIC. All model variants are fitted an 8-speed sports automatic transmission. In addition to the automatic engine start-stop function, the standard ECO PRO mode also helps reduce fuel consumption. The intelligent all-wheel drive system xDrive will be available for the top model, too.

The boot has a volume of 460 litres, which can be expanded up to 1,265 litres thanks to the through-loading system and the folding rear seatbacks.

Standard safety features include front airbags, side airbags integrated into the seatbacks, head airbags for front and rear seats, three-point automatic seatbelts for all seats, belt force limiters and seatbelt tensioners at the front as well as ISOFIX child seat fasteners at the rear. Intelligent lightweight construction reduces the vehicle weight. The doors, bonnet and most of the chassis components, including the suspension supports, are made of aluminium. The front side walls consist of thermoplastic material, while the boot lid is made of fibreglass composites.

May 2012

Engine range announced

Model

Price OTR from

Power
Hp

Torque Nm

0 – 62mph Seconds

Top Speed Mph

Combined Mpg

CO2 Emissions g/km

BMW 650i Gran Coupé

£70,650

450

650

4.6

155*

31.7

206

BMW 640i Gran Coupé

£61,390

320

450

5.4

155*

35.8

181

BMW 640d Gran Coupé

£63,900

313

630

5.4

155*

49.6

148

December 2012

M6 Gran Coupe revealed

The newest member of the M6 family brings together M performance characteristics with extra luxury and aesthetic appeal. 560hp V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology.

Model


Price OTR

Power
hp

Torque
Nm

0 - 62mph Seconds

Top Speed Mph

Combined Mpg

CO2 Emissions g/km

BMW M6 Gran Coupé

£97,490

560

680

4.2

155*

28.5

232

The V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology produces 560hp. It includes a pair of twin-scroll turbochargers, a cross-bank exhaust manifold, High Precision Direct Petrol Injection, VALVETRONIC variable valve timing and Double-Vanos continuously variable camshaft control. The 4,395cc unit keeps peak torque of 680Nm on tap between 1,500 and 5,750rpm, while maximum output is developed between 6,000 and 7,000rpm. The engine revs to a maximum of 7,200rpm. The BMW M6 Gran Coupé gets from zero to 62mph in 4.2 seconds. Electronically limited top speed of 155 mph. Average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle stands at 28.5mpg and CO2 emissions are 232g/km.

Seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission with DRIVELOGIC. The transmission's electronic management system ensures the right gear is selected for optimum traction. It also offers the driver a Launch Control function for maximum acceleration, Low Speed Assistance for extra comfort and the Auto Start-Stop function to enhance efficiency.

Active M Differential at the rear axle distributes the engine's power between the individual wheels to maximum traction. Its electronically controlled multi-disc limited-slip differential works together with the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system and splits drive between the right and left rear wheels quickly and precisely according to the situation at hand.

As an alternative to the standard high-performance compound braking system, the BMW M6 Gran Coupé can also be ordered with optional M Carbon ceramic brakes.

December 2014

BMW revealed revised 6 Series

All 2015 BMW 6 Series petrol models have a sports exhaust system with a switchable valve which adds a more intense timbre to the engine soundtrack, while aerodynamic improvements along with the extensive package of BMW EfficientDynamics technologies mean the six-cylinder models – petrol and diesel – are even more fuel-efficient than before. Through features such as Dynamic Damper Control, Active Drive and Integral Active Steering, owners are now able to create a made-to-measure driving experience, while the latest BMW Head-Up Display and Driving Assistant Plus with Active Cruise Control minimise distractions and supplement the driver’s reactions to enhance safety.

The 2015 6 Series range consists of three distinctly individual cars based on a common theme: a sportily stylish classic Coupé, an exclusive all-seasons Convertible and an elegant longer-wheelbase four-door Gran Coupé. The previous 6 Series Gran Coupé sold almost 40,000 out of a total 80,000 6 Series.

All three body styles are available with a choice of highly efficient TwinPower Turbo in-line six-cylinder and V8 engines utilising BMW EfficientDynamics technology to save fuel and reduce emissions. All engines meet EU6 emissions standards and drive through an eight-speed automatic transmission that combines long ratios for ultra-efficient motorway cruising with fast-shifting capabilities that complement the vivacious character of the engines.

The 3.0-litre 313hp turbodiesel engine in the 640d models and the 3.0 litre 320hp petrol engine in 640i versions are now more fuel-efficient thanks to the latest EfficientDynamics features and aerodynamic improvements. As a result, CO2 emissions come down as low as 139g/km on the 640d SE Coupé. Yet every 6 Series easily reaches 60mph in less than 5.5 seconds. The 4.4-litre V8 bi-turbo 650i models are quicker still, while the ultimate 6 Series range will again be the 560hp V8-engined M6s.

Styling changes to the front and rear of all 6 Series emphasise their powerful on-road presence, while new LED headlights, new metallic paint colours and revisions to the interiors keep them top of the class.

There are new 18-inch alloy wheels for the Coupé and Convertible, and five new metallic paint finishes – Jatoba, Cashmere Silver, Glacier Silver, Mediterranean Blue and Melbourne Red. New wheels of up to 20 inches in diameter are available.

A leather dashboard with contrast stitching is now standard across the range. There is a modern, stylish high-gloss black finish on the centre console around the switches for the climate control system and audio system. This contemporary look complements the iDrive system’s more precise Control Display with its chromed surround, the new multi-functional instrument panel and the LED lights to illuminate the footwells, door openings and glovebox. Dakota, Nappa or Merino leather trim will be standard in the UK, depending on model. The Nappa leather now offers two bi-colour options – Ivory White with Black or Cognac with Black.

Model

Power
Hp

Torque Nm

0 – 62mph Seconds*

Top Speed Mph**

Combined Mpg*

CO2 Emissions g/km*

Price

OTR

BMW 640d Coupe/Convertible/Gran Sport

Coupé/Convertible/

313

630

5.3/5.5/5.4

155

54.3/52.3/52.33

139/144/143

£62,295/ £68,195/ £62,295

BMW 640i

320

450

5.3/5.5/5.4

155

38.2/37.2/37.7

172/176/174

£59,430/ £65,330/ £59,430

BMW 650i

450

650

4.6/4.6/4.6

155

32.9/31.7/32.9

199/208/199

£69,790/ £75,690/ £69,790

BMW M6

560

680

4.2/4.3/4.2

155

28.5/27.4/28.5

231/239/231

£92,350/ £97,300/ £94,750

* Coupe/Convertible/Gran Coupe respectively ** All versions electronically limited

January 2017

Enchancements for BMW 6 Series from March 2017.

New and attractive special equipment options are added to BMW 6 Series range from March 2017. These underscore the sporting character of the model. The choice of body colours is complemented by the brand-new variant Sonic Speed Blue metallic. M Sport models will see new 20-inch, M bicolour light alloy wheels boasting an M-specific double spoke design are available, including mixed tyres with run-flat properties and a new Carbon Fibre interior trim.

What to watch out for

30-09-2013:

Warning about the 'Mobile Application Preparation (6NR)' option at £130. This is ESSENTIAL because it enables the iPhone ‘BMW Connected Drive’ app, including web radio. BMW UK officially doesn’t or won’t support a retrofit of 6NR (though 'fixes' are available via idependent specialists).

16-05-2014:

Cannot tow. No Type Approved towbar available from BMW.

07-03-2019:

Report of BMW 6-Series diesel being recalled on 9th January for replacement EGR cooler. Owner did not get the car back, repaired, until 5th March 2019 and was meanwhile put into a SEAT Leon diesel supplied by Enterprise. Owner has worked out that the loss of his 6-Series for 2 months has cost him £1,000 of PCP payments, plus insurance at a higher rate than that of the courtesy SEAT.

What does the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe (2012 – 2018) cost?