BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo 2017 Review

What is a GT? In BMW’s case standing for ‘Gran Turismo’, it is a blend of sports performance with grand touring luxury, and a modicum of out-of-the-norm styling.

BMW currently has two GT models, the 3 Series GT and the 5 Series GT [this new 6 Series GT replaces the latter]. Sitting alongside the Grand Coupe models, and the X6 and X4 coupe SUVs, the GTs round out BMW’s line in niche vehicles.

While they aren’t core sales models, these are vehicles which BMW says will appeal to drivers looking to stand out from the crowd.

The last 5 Series GT did just that, but its looks polarised. Some suggested the rear end appeared to have been tacked on, rather than integrated into the overall silhouette.

From any angle the all-new 6 Series GT proffers a more elegant design combined with sophisticated details designed to appeal to discerning owners.

Available in two models, the 630i GT and 640i xDrive GT, the standard equipment list for the 6 Series GT is epic with technology and luxury features at its core. Performance is a key pillar too, yet behind the wheel you’re so cossetted, the result feels more luxury cruiser than dynamic powerhouse.

The rear-wheel drive 630i GT is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, generating 190kW and 400Nm and will retail in Australia for $123,500 (plus on-road costs).

On test at launch was the all-wheel drive range-topping 640i xDrive GT which will be available for $148,900 (plus on-road costs). Spurred along by a 3.0-litre turbocharged six-cylinder engine which generates 250kW and 450Nm, BMW claims the 640i x Drive GT will accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in just 5.3secs. As a result performance is sharp and swift, however with a muted engine note, it fails to thrill aurally.

There’s good mid-range torque available and the transmission is quick enough to kick down for acceleration from 60km/h to 100km/h when overtaking. If you prefer more engagement with your driving, the paddle shifters add somewhat to the experience.

>> BMW confirms 6 Series GT line-up and Australian pricing

BMW has elected to stick with a traditional eight-speed torque converter gearbox for the 6 Series GT and the result is a solid pairing with the engine. Gear changes are smooth, and the lack of a ninth-cog will probably prove an advantage in Australia with our slower speed roads.

We know BMWs are traditionally tightly sprung and in fact their taut suspension tunes highlight poorly finished roads. But in Portugal, even in ‘sports’ mode, the 6 Series GT coasts beautifully along bumps and ridges, thanks in part to its adaptive air suspension which is standard in both the test model and entry 630i GT.

The 640i xDrive is the first non-performance BMW model to feature its intelligent all-wheel drive system. Rear-biased 60:40 in regular driving, it can shift all drive to the front or rear wheels, or any permutation in between, to optimise road holding. While the system was untroubled on our drive route, we look forward to an extended drive in Australia to assess its performance.

Up-front, the 6 Series GT boasts an active kidney grille which opens to enhance cooling, while at the rear there is an active bootlid spoiler to reduce lift. At our conservative road speeds, it’s hard to see these features getting much of a work out [the rear spoiler will likely need to be employed manually in Australia as it only kicks in automatically at speeds over 120km/h].

With its capable yet understated powertrain and on-road composure, the 6 Series GT is a driver’s car for owners who prefer subtlety over flamboyance.

BMW had architects and creative types in mind when ideating the 6 Series GT. With its unique bodystyle, it’s clear they also had emerging markets in mind, targeting the kind of new world buyers who like to be seen driving the latest and greatest.

As such, the 6 Series GT features an inspired exterior design which will appeal to aspirational car buyers, who seek the room offered by an SUV, but with the presence of a large sedan.

Design-wise the 6 Series GT is considerably more resolved that the 5 Series GT it replaces. In terms of dimensions, the newcomer is 87mm longer and 20mm lower - giving it a sleeker look - while the lift back boot is well integrated into the overall design, delivering more elegant lines. The result is a car which looks assuredly distinctive, without trying too hard.

In the cabin, the design focus continues with stitched Nappa Leather upholstery in cream a standard fit in all 640i x Drive models. There’s an elegant mix of cabin materials which successfully blends sophistication with function.

Technology inclusions are extensive, the impressive iDrive 6 system sitting front and centre on a large 10.25-inch configurable touchscreen display. In the range-topping 640i xDrive we piloted, the standard harmon/kardon audio system, with 16 speakers [including 2 subwoofers under the front seat], offered decent volume with exceptional clarity.

Your rear seat audiophile passengers will no doubt be impressed as those seated ahead. They may not be able to carry on a conversation over the decibels, but they will appreciate the detail and focus for them as this is an ideal limo.

Surprisingly however, for such a tech-laden vehicle, there are no USB ports in the rear [only a pair of 12V sockets].

Legroom is extensive and, while the 6 Series GT is lower than the outgoing 5 Series GT - and includes a panoramic sunroof - headroom has been increased.

Four-zone digital climate control means each rear seat passenger can control their own temperature and fan speed. B-pillar mounted vents add to the comfort factor.

Rear seats can recline to give a more relaxed posture, or the seat backs can be tilted forward slightly to boost cargo space. A 40:20:40 folding rear seat offers flexibility for additional storage [BMW says the maximum is 1800-litres]. With rear seats in play, boot capacity is 610-litres, up from 500-litres in the 5 Series GT, and almost 100 litres more than the 7 Series sedan.

But there’s no avoiding the fact that so much space makes for a big vehicle. While the 6 Series GT is based on the 5 Series chassis, at 5091mm in length, it is 184mm longer than a 5 Series wagon and just 147mm shorter than the 7 Series.

The result is a car which makes judging front end placement somewhat tricky. Naturally the included parking assistant with sensors, 360 degree view and optional BMW display key to enable remote parking will all help, but some drivers may simply find the more in-control driving position of an SUV a more practical solution in everyday situations.

So here’s the question: Will BMW 6 Series GT prospects be cross-shopping this car against an SUV. Maybe, maybe not - but if you’re in the market for a subtle performer which delivers comfort, practicality and prestige in equal measures, this car is likely to tick some very particular boxes.

2017 BMW 640i xDrive GT pricing and specifications:
Price: $148,900 (plus on-road costs)
Engine: 3.0-litre six-cylinder turbo-petrol
Output: 250kW/450Nm
Transmission: Eight-speed automatic
Fuel: 8.2L/100km (ADR Combined)
CO2: 187g/km (ADR Combined)
Safety Rating: N/A