The BMW M6 Gran Coupé is set to join the existing Coupé and Convertible models in the M6 high-performance sports car line-up. With this model BMW hopes to combine M performance characteristics with greater luxury and aesthetic appeal.
At the M6 Coupé’s heart lies the same 4,4-litre bi-turbo V8 engine that does service in such M-badged stable mates as the M5 and M6 Convertible/Coupé. Coupled with a 7-speed M dual-clutch transmission, this unit develops 412 kW and 680 N.m of torque with maximum power coming in between 6 000 and 7 000 r/min. The transmission features a low-speed assistance and auto stop-start functionality, as well as a launch control module that helps the Gran Coupé to sprint from 0-100 km/h in 4,2 seconds on the way to an electronically governed 250 km/h top speed. Average fuel consumption is a claimed 9,9 l/100 km with CO2 emissions of 232 g/km.
This model applies a number of M design features onto the graceful canvas that is the Gran Coupé. Among these visual features are a more aggressive front apron with enlarged air intakes, standard adaptive LED headlamps, twin exhaust tips positioned on the outer edges of a revised rear apron, the characteristic M ‘gills’, the standard BMW Individual High-gloss Shadow Line package and 20-inch M light-alloy wheels in a double-spoke design.
Merino leather upholstery is standard on the Gran Coupé and a choice of a two-person or standard bench rear seat arrangements is offered. With the back seats folded down the boot capacity grows from 460 to 1 265 dm3. Other standard features include heated driver and front passenger seats and a BMW Professional audio system with hi-fi speakers. Options include four-zone automatic climate control with a control panel in the rear, heated rear seats, a heated sports steering wheel with signature blue/red stitching, electrically operated sun blinds and the new generation Professional navigation system integrating a Bang & Olufsen surround sound system.
The BMW ConnectedDrive system includes an M-specific head-up display, park distance control, rear-view camera, high beam assist, lane change warning, lane departure warning and BMW Night Vision with pedestrian recognition.
We will see the M6 Gran Coupé on sale in South Africa in the second quarter of 2013.
