BMW has added an M6 Gran Coupé to the existing coupe and convertible body styles, to be launched next spring.
North American sales will begin next summer of the same year, with pricing to be announced, later, and likely to be around $110,000.
The Gran Coupé features the same mechanical and aesthetic upgrades as the two other models with the added weight and practicality that comes with the two extra doors and 4.45-inch longer wheelbase.
Under the hood is the familiar S63Tü 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 from the M5 sedan and M6 coupe and cabriolet models. The force-fed unit delivers an output of 553hp between 6,000 and 7,000 rpm and a peak torque of 501 lb-ft between 1,500 and 5,750 rpm.
A standard seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission with Drivelogic that also offers a Launch Control function, Low Speed Assistance for extra comfort and the Auto Start-Stop function. Power is delivered through an electronically controlled multi-disc limited-slip differential.
BMW quotes 0-60mph in 4.1 seconds, which matches the M6 Coupe and Convertible models' time, and is a bit faster than the M5's 4.4 seconds to 62 mph.
Top speed is electronically governed at 155mph, but can be increased to 189mph with the optional M Driver’s Package. Expect average fuel consumption of about 23.8mpg.
Like the two-door models of the M6 series, the Gran Coupe features an upgraded chassis with M-specific version of the Dynamic Damper Control system and hydraulic variable-ratio rack-and-pinion steering with the M Servotronic function. M carbon-ceramic brakes are optional and wheels are standard 20-inch M light-alloys.
So people can tell you've got one, an M aero styling kit is fitted along with a uniquely trimmed interior with a sports steering wheel and seats plus different gauges on the instrument panel.––Paul Duchene
