2019 BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe

The 2019 6 Series Gran Coupe is part of the third-generation 6 Series, but in isolation has been around since 2012. It's the four-door version of the 6 Series Coupe, which has since been discontinued, leaving the 6 GC alone in isolation to battle against the Mercedes-Benz CLS and Audi A7 Sportback. The Gran Coupe offers a more practical way to get the same stunning coupe looks, power, and refined interior of its two-door predecessor, albeit at a higher cost. There are four trims in total and two engine options. Two powertrain options are available, each split into either rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive. The entry-level models badged as 640i derivatives, fitted with a 315-horsepower turbocharged inline-six paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The top-end trims feature a 4.4-liter TwinPower Turbo V8 that makes 443 hp and 479 lb-ft. Now nearing its official demise with the new 8 Series Gran Coupe on its way, is it still good enough to warrant our attention?

The entry-level 640i has a high starting price of $81,500, while the 640i xDrive costs $84,500. The upper trim 650i is slapped with an even higher sticker price of $93,100 with its xDrive derivative priced at $96,100. These prices exclude the licensing, taxes, and registration fees as well as the destination charge of $995.

It's worth mentioning that the entry-level Audi A7 3.0-liter TFSI has a starting price of $68,000, while the base Mercedes CLS starts at $69,200. The 6 Series Gran Coupe is thus in excess of $12,000 more expensive at entry-point to the range than the Audi, although the Porsche Panamera is closer in pricing, at $87,550.

There's no doubt the 6 Series Gran Coupe is a large car, but that doesn't get in the way of the driving experience; it still feels comfortable around corners and takes winding roads in its stride. The ride is firm but by no means harsh, keeping in line with BMW's luxury image. The brakes are strong, stopping the car in no time and have a firm and responsive feel to them. For the 2019 Gran Coupe, there are four drive modes available, including Comfort, Sport, Sport+ and Eco Pro. Comfort is the most balanced setting, optimizing the 6 Series Gran Coupe for everyday driving and find the sweet spot between performance and comfort. Sport mode switches the throttle response times up and leads to higher RPM gear shifts. Sport+ is similar to Sport mode, but turns off the traction control, and allows more movement before the stability control kicks in. Eco Pro optimizes the car for fuel economy, and while it has its uses, it's unlikely to be used often on the 6 Series Gran Coupe.

The 6 Series Coupe inspires confidence in the driver with its performance, and while the 640i feels good, it doesn't come close to the top-end model. The 650i is always raring to go and tempts the driver to put their foot flat to experience its rocket-like kick. BMW has done a terrific job of maintaining a coupe-like sporty feel to the 6 Series Gran coupe despite its four doors and massive size.

Compared to the rival CLS and A7, the entry-level 640i models are very expensive and deliver far less performance. On the plus side, the 650i variants are far more powerful than what the competition has on offer. Judging the 6 Series on its own merits, there are many reasons why it's so appealing. In a world where so many cars in a range look similar, the 6 Series Gran Coupe breaks the mold with distinctive styling and stunning looks. Both engine options are fun to drive, although not thrilling by any stretch of the imagination, and while the 640i is more relaxed, it is still a pleasure to drive and cheap to run with good fuel economy. The 650i is a little more exciting to drive due to the increase in power but overall offers the same features as the entry-spec version. The downside of owning the Gran Coupe is the lack of rear seating space, expensive add-ons for necessary driver-aids, and its total cost, which is higher than most rivals in the segment. However, these gripes can't detract from the fact that the 6 Series Gran Coupe is a good car - maybe not great, but at the very least, you won't regret buying it.

Both engine variants have something to offer, and since both trims are equipped with the same features, it really boils down to what you want under the hood. The 640i is great for daily driving and offers a great mix of performance and economy in one lovely package. On the other hand, the 6 Series is listed as a Gran Coupe, and that means it should have some performance aspects intertwined with the lifestyle joys. So, there's no point settling for less when there's an insane 443-hp V8 available to blow you away with good performance, underscored by the wonderful soundtrack. Both the all-wheel-drive and rear-wheel-drivetrains have their uses, but unless you are living in an area where all-wheel-capability is really needed, the rear-wheel-drive will do just fine. In that case, the 650i is the one to go for.

The Audi A7 is much newer than the 6 Series Gran Coupe, with the latest model arriving in this year with a mild-hybrid powertrain to boot. It's powered by a turbocharged 335-hp 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine with a 48-volt electric hybrid assist system. Being a newer car, the Audi has a far more modern interior than the BMW with LED screens throughout. At $68,000 for the entry-level model, it starts off much cheaper than the 640i at $81,500. The Audi offers an exceptional balance of luxury, performance, and great handling. At the lower tiers, the Audi is the better buy all round. However, there's nothing in the A7 range yet to touch the 650i with its 445 horsepower. While the 650i might look and feel dated in comparison to the Audi, it still has enough thrills to make it more of a driver's car.

The CLS was the car that started off the four-door coupe trend way back in 2004. It's now in its third iteration and has been newly designed for 2019. Both inside and outside, it is far more modern than the 6 Series Gran Coupe and has a jaw-dropping interior that's light years ahead of the BMW. It also has a high level of onboard technology and offers a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience. The CLS has a turbocharged 3.0-liter engine with a mild-hybrid boost, and that can produce either 363 hp or 429 hp. The top of the range 6 Series Gran Coupe has a starting price of $93,100 while the top of the range AMG CLS 53 starts at $79,900. At over $10,000 cheaper, the Mercedes is far better than the BMW, despite having slightly less power. It is more modern and offers a better all-round driving experience.

Closer to each other in terms of pricing, the Porsche Panamera and the 6 Series Gran Coupe differ by around $5,000 with the Porsche being more expensive. With similar powertrains too, the Panamera kicks out 330 hp and 332 lb-ft, while the Gran Coupe makes only slightly less horsepower (315 hp), but similar torque. The Panamera maintains the upper hand by virtue of its status, firstly, but also in size, cargo volume, and driving pleasure. Available in all-wheel-drive as well, the Panamera can also be had with a bigger engine or a hybrid option. Although it does classify as a large luxury sedan, it's a worthy competitor, and we would rather fork out the additional $5k for the baseline Porsche than spend over $95,000 on the top-spec 6 Series Gran Coupe.