BMW Confirms 6 Series Gran Coupe for Production in 2012
BMW will build the 6 Series Gran Coupe, a four-door coupe set to rival the Mercedes-Benz CLS, with production commencing later in 2012.
BMW has confirmed that the 6 Series Gran Coupe, first shown as a concept in 2010, will enter production later in 2012. This move positions BMW directly against the Mercedes-Benz CLS in the competitive four-door coupe segment.
BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe Enters Production
- Production starts in 2012
- Four-door coupe to rival Mercedes-Benz CLS
- Based on the 6 Series platform with 5 Series wheelbase
- Expected to offer full range of 6 Series engines and xDrive
- Aluminium and plastic body panels for weight reduction
Design and Technical Details
The production 6 Series Gran Coupe will share its wheelbase with the 5 Series saloon, but BMW says the new model will be lower, wider and around 90mm shorter than the 5 Series. The car also sits lower than the two-door 6 Series coupe and convertible, contributing to a more aggressive stance.
Frameless door windows are featured on all four doors, while a B-pillar is retained for structural rigidity. BMW is employing lightweight construction techniques, with aluminium used for the doors and bonnet, and plastic panels for the front wings and boot lid. These measures are intended to offset the increased weight of the larger body style.
| Model | Wheelbase | Length | Body Style | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe | Same as 5 Series | 90mm shorter than 5 Series | Four-door coupe | Frameless windows, aluminium/plastic panels, xDrive |
| Mercedes-Benz CLS | Similar to E-Class | Slightly longer than Gran Coupe | Four-door coupe | Frameless windows, luxury features |
| BMW 6 Series Coupe | Shorter than Gran Coupe | Shorter than Gran Coupe | Two-door coupe | Sportier stance, two doors |
Engines and Performance Options
BMW plans to offer the Gran Coupe with the full range of 6 Series engines, including both petrol and diesel options. The xDrive all-wheel drive system will also be available, providing improved traction and handling. While an M-badged version is not formally confirmed, the use of weight-saving materials and the precedent set by the M6 suggest that a high-performance variant could be possible in the future.
Market Position and Rivals
The 6 Series Gran Coupe is positioned to compete directly with the Mercedes-Benz CLS, which established the four-door coupe segment. BMW's new model is close to the CLS in overall size and targets the same premium market. Pricing is expected to start in the six-figure range, placing it above the 5 Series and in line with other 6 Series models.
BMW is likely to debut the production Gran Coupe at a major international motor show before deliveries begin. The company has not confirmed which show will host the reveal, but Geneva and Paris are both possibilities based on previous launches.
Gran Coupe Joins BMW's Expanding Line-up
The introduction of the 6 Series Gran Coupe marks another step in BMW's strategy to fill every premium segment niche. The Gran Coupe will sit alongside the 6 Series coupe and convertible, and follows the earlier introduction of models such as the 5 Series Gran Turismo. This approach reflects BMW's commitment to offering a diverse range of body styles to suit different customer preferences.
- 6 Series Coupe: Two-door sports coupe
- 6 Series Convertible: Open-top version
- 6 Series Gran Coupe: Four-door coupe with premium features
- 5 Series Gran Turismo: Hatchback-style luxury saloon
For more on BMW's expanding range of body styles, see our coverage of the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo 520d.
What to Expect Next
With production of the 6 Series Gran Coupe set to begin, BMW is poised to strengthen its presence in the luxury four-door coupe market. The anticipated debut at a major motor show will provide more details on final specifications, pricing, and availability. As BMW continues to innovate and expand its line-up, the Gran Coupe is expected to attract buyers seeking a blend of style, performance, and practicality in a premium package.
