Test Drive: 2013 BMW 650i xDrive Gran Coupe

2013 BMW 650i xDrive Gran Coupe. Click image to enlarge

Review and Photos by Mike Schlee
Photo Gallery:
2013 BMW 650i xDrive Gran Coupe

One could argue that Mercedes-Benz created the four-door coupe segment in 2004. In the hotly contested one-upmanship game that is the German luxury vehicle market, it is a wonder that BMW has taken this long to enter the segment. Audi has been there for years with the A7 and even Porsche has the Panamera, which may not be overly coupe-like in profile, but is intended to compete in the same market. But now BMW has finally decided to enter the stylish four-door sedan market with their 6 Series, specifically the one called the Gran Coupe.

To turn the 6 Series Coupe and Convertible, with absolutely useless rear seats, into a practical four-door vehicle, BMW had to make a stretch in transforming the 6 Series into the Gran Coupe. At 5,009 mm long, the Gran Coupe is 111 mm longer than the 6 Coupe, with most of the extra space being added for rear passengers. Yes, regular-sized people can now fit back there – just.

Despite the stretch, BMW has succeeded in making the car look stunning. It is one of the best applications of ‘four-door-coupe’ styling yet, in my opinion, even with the M Package 20-inch staggered wheels replaced by a 245/45R18 winter tire package. Despite these winter tires, the Gran Coupe still has sleek lines that start with twin halo LED front headlights, then complemented by LED fog lights, and finally finished off by beautiful twin arched LED strip taillights. At night, this lighting treatment looks terrific as even the high beams are slightly lit up by LEDs to add to the overall sinister look.

2013 BMW 650i xDrive Gran Coupe. Click image to enlarge

Inside, the stylish looks continue.  The interior has to be one of the nicest looking BMW interiors I have seen lately; actually no, make that ever. Long gone are the days of the cold teutonic BMW interiors. The blend of materials, colours and subtle touches, like the metal speaker vents, or red stitching on the black leather, makes the 6 Series feel as expensive as it really is. I also love the little inserts of rubber on the back of the steering wheel mounted paddle shifters; it’s a nice, classy touch.

The front seats proved to be very comfortable and were highly adjustable. My favorite feature is the top half of the seat back that can be adjusted independently from the rest of the seat; great for those like me with less than optimal posture. The M Sport Package that graced my test vehicle also includes an ‘M Sport’ steering wheel, but it isn’t all that sporty feeling. It does feature great quality leather and looks high end. For those still not convinced the Gran Coupe is a practical ride, know that it seats five, not just four, and has a trunk capacity of 460 L.