If you go to an auto show, you’ll notice that German carmakers tend to have a lot of models in their lineups. Not so much Porsche, but Audi, Mercedes-Benz, and especially BMW have a dizzying array of cars to choose from. For those contemplating an Ultimate Driving Machine, you’ve got your 1 Series all the way through the 7 Series, the X models, the Z4, M models, and the i Series. The lineup looks straightforward at first glance, but it’s really not. Want a coupe or convertible? 2-, 4-, or 6-series. [N.B. this includes those four-door “coupes” that still confuse me—Ed.] How about a sedan? 3-, 5-, or 7-series. SUV? X marks the SUV spot, unless it’s an X4 or X6, which look more like a 3-series or 6-series GT. Hatchback? 3- or 6-series. And that’s where I found myself last week, behind the wheel of an $ 84,000 hatchback.
The 640i xDrive Gran Turismo is new to BMW’s lineup this year. Previously, BMW’s high-end hatchback was a 5-series car, but the German automaker decided to move the model a bit upscale while continuing to use the 5-series platform. The GT is also the least-expensive 6-series car, starting at $ 69,700 for the base model. The model I drove was maxed out with the M Sport package, Driving Assistance Plus, Dynamic Handling Package, and Executive Package. Add in the destination charge and a couple of other bits, and the sticker price is $ 84,010. That’s a big number for a body type that is not that popular in the US.
The mechanical bits on the 640i GT are compelling. Powering the car is a 3.0-liter inline-six engine, turbocharged to crank out 335hp (250kW) and 332lb-ft (450Nm) of torque. It’s gas only for the US, with a diesel engine available in other markets. An eight-speed automatic transmission is paired with all-wheel drive. The Dynamic Handling package adds active roll stabilization, height-adjustable air springs that are new to the 640i, dynamic shock control, and rear-wheel steering. All of that combines for a zero-to-60 speed of 5.1 seconds, according to BMW.
Read 17 remaining paragraphs | Comments
