What is it?
This is the biggest-hitting variation of BMW’s ungainly 6 Series Gran Turimso. As such, it's an intriguing proposition, even if it is unlikely to rack up vast sales figures here in Europe, back-seat loving China being the main target market for a class of car that also includes the Mercedes-Benz CLS and Audi A7 Sportback.
We’ve covered the 6 Series GT in considerable depth before – not least by way of a full road test – but this is our first experience of the 640i on home soil. Because the chances of a M-division Gran Turismo are slim to non-existent, it's this model that tops the line-up, with a 335bhp twin-turbo straight-six petrol engine nesteld longitudinally under the bonnet.
Beneath it in the range sits a limited selection of powerplants. And don’t be fooled by BMW’s model taxonomy – the 630i that serves as an entry point is now a four-cylinder petrol turbocharged to develop 255bhp (not a six-cylinder, as the '3' would historically have suggested). The solitary diesel option comes in the form of a turbocharged straight-six tuned to 261bhp and 457lb ft of torque.
While the 640i also comes exclusively with BMW's full-time four-wheel-drive system – xDrive – you've got options with the suspension setup. As standard, the Grant Turismo is fitted with self-levelling air suspension at the rear axle. Adaptive suspension costs £1670 and adds air suspension to the front axle; for your money the dampers will also now be adaptive, meaning the ride height can be dropped 10mm in Sport mode.
Join the debate
scrap
It might be lighter than a
It might be lighter than a 5GT but it’s still heavier than a 7 in the same spec. Which is surely better in most respects, unless you really need the space.
manicm
scrap wrote:
This is more spacious than a swb 7, and who cares if it's heavier when it's over 10k cheaper. Are you really going to hustle a 7 on roundabouts?
I think this 6 is the best kept secret among limousines.
eseaton
A revolting looking car - far
And with a plastic engine cover to finish it off.
manicm
eseaton wrote:
I'd still have this over the completely anodyne 7.
manicm
eseaton wrote:
I'd still have this over the completely anodyne 7.
beechie
Get your cardigans out...
abkq
BMW's model range reminds me
BMW's model range reminds me of cheap restaurants that offer extensive menus. If you can't do certian things well, might as well spread the risk. Lack of confidence or direction disguised as choice.
Oh, and that tedious interior once again ...
BMW deserves the most unsparing criticism.
manicm
abkq wrote:
Tedious interior? If having a logical, comfortable cabin with the undisputedly best infotainment system of any vehicle is tedious then so be it.
Don't say something just because you have to...
si73
I'd say ugly interior, well
I'd say ugly interior, well dash design, compared with audi/merc/jag interiors.
As for this, what a shame it looks so awkward as it appears to be a great car.
abkq
manicm wrote:
Insofar as interior layout, that is in terms of ergonomics, does not determine the visual result, it is possible to have a tedious looking interior without compromising its function. Your comment confuses the two.
Pages
Add your comment