It's long been reported that the larger BMW Gran Turismo model is being moved from the 5 Series nameplate to the 6. That's the prototype you're seeing in this spy video from the 'Ring. It's a bulky machine, but the drive can't resist a tussle with one of the most iconic hot hatchbacks of the 2010s, the Megane RS.
We don't quite understand BMW's decision to rename the GT model. Between this and the 2 Series Active Tourer, it's almost as if the practical cars in the lineup are starting to share even numbers with coupes.
Speaking of them, the replacement for the 6 Series 2-door is rumored to revive the 8 Series nameplate. So the Gran Turismo will only have to share its number with the X6.
Available models: 620d, 630d, 630i, 640i and M650i
The engine range will closely mirror that of the G30 5 Series sedan. You BMW fans probably already know what those numbers mean. The 620d and 630i are the only 2-liter, four-cylinder models.
We'd expect the 630d to be the most popular model, delivering effortless power and torque from its single-turbo 3-liter setup. It will be available from September this year, but later on, a twin-turbo 640d model will be introduced.
Based on the shape of the exhaust and the sound, we figure the prototype in the video is a 640i model with an engine similar to the famous M140i hot hatch. However, between the softer suspension setup and the near 2-ton weight, the 326 horsepower B58 engine is not able to hunt down the Megane effectively.
If or when BMW decided to offer this model in China, we'll see a 640e GT that travels 50 kilometers using the electricity you feed it. However, the M650i GT from the M Performance division won't be capped by an actual M model, not that we're complaining.
Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida. Full profile
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